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WHAT "PH BALANCED" REALLY MEANS

17/6/2016

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We've received several enquiries in the last little while asking if our products are "pH balanced". 

Short for potential hydrogen, "pH balanced" is a term widely advertised in the skin care industry that claims "pH balanced" products are more beneficial to your skin. While it is true that our skin is generally more acidic, our face and hair are not really affected. There is no standardised or correct reading for the entire body. Different parts of our body serves different purposes and each of these requires a different acidic-alkaline environment for best performance.

Unknown to many, our skin actually needs to be a little acidic to retain moisture and resist germs, bacteria and other surface toxins. The acidic conditions of the skin are caused by normal secretions and breakdown of fatty acids on the skin by good bacteria that live on our skin.

So is using "pH balanced" products important? Yes and no. Most mass market products have their pH levels checked and neutralised before packaging. The term "pH balanced" is more of a marketing ploy these days. What is the logic of making a product with chemicals knowing it's too acidic or alkaline on the skin, but think it's ok to neutralise it with even more chemicals so the product is useable?

Most of us are not born with skin disorders. Your skin pH level is also relative. Advertisement for FMCG products will also not tell you that the chemicals added to "pH balanced" products can be more damaging than beneficial as they will not change the natural pH of skin secretions. These synthetics will however strip your skin of its natural oils, develop irritating skin conditions and actually prevent your skin from managing its own pH balance.
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Now that we've lifted that black cloud on "pH balanced" and what it means to you and your skin, you can be a savvier consumer and make a more informed decision on what you buy next. The most accurate test is really how the product feels on you. 
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ROSE GERANIUM FOR FEMALE HEALTH

25/11/2015

 
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Rose Geranium is truly a feminine scent - strong and floral, highly reminiscent of roses. Unknown to many, rose geranium is one of the few essential oils, besides Angelica Root (当归 / dong kwai) that has an affinity for the female reproductive system and hormone regulation. In short, rose geranium is compulsory for for female health and skinare, and here's 5 very good reasons why.
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1.  Rose geranium oil stimulates the lymphatic system and acts as a diuretic to help correct and balance the elimination of water and waste in our bodies. It's detoxifying effect helps keep your immune system in good shape and condition.

2.  When inhaled or used on the body, rose geranium is effective at addressing PMS symptons like abdominal cramps, sore breasts andother menopausal symptons.

3.  The pharmaceutical industry wouldn't want you to know this, but rose geranium is remarkably effective against yeast infection and other fungi without affecting bacterial flora. If used at the first sign of an yeast infection, it will knock the nasty bits out. Just remember to dilute it (1:10) before applying it in case your skin is sensitive.

4.  Rose geranium oil is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and detoxifying. It balances all skin types and is very effective at controlling acne. It does not matter if your skin is dry or oily, rose geranium balances the skin’s production of sebum according your needs. It’ is also regenerative at the cellular level and helps give a radiant glow.

5.  Rose geranium oil relieves anxiety and mood swings. In aromatherapy science, rose geranium is highly ranked for easing tension, anxiety and irritability. The ester content of rose geranium gives it a soothing effect like lavender, which makes it an excellent nerve tonic.


This Christmas, we are delighted to bring all customers the following Rose Geranium products -- Pure essential oil ($23)  /  Organic body wash + body lotion gift set ($30)  /  Organic body & massage oil ($55)  /  Premium soy candle ($28)

HOW TO BUY PURE ARGAN OIL

15/10/2015

 
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Argan oil, other known as liquid gold is known to be one of the rarest and most expensive oils in the world. Pure Argan oil is hard to obtain and production is time-consuming, thereby it's high price. Not all Argan Oil sold in the marketplace is pure as many versions, especially "serum" have been diluted or mixed with other solvents and additives.

But it is worthy spending a little extra to buy 100% pure Argan Oil, instead of paying less for something you could easily find the drug store or your kitchen cupboard. 
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Did you know that even if you buy Argan Oil in Morocco, it is not a guarantee that the oil is not diluted, unless you know exactly where to buy. We source ours directly from a well-known manufacturer in South West Morocco and it is certified with ECOCERT (France) and the Organic Farmers & Growers (UK).

With the rising popularity of Argan Oil, there are so many brands to choose from. Unfortunately, there are too many that is not worth your money. So how you go about verifying an authentic Argan Oil?

1.  Ingredient List
Look for Argan Oil that has only one ingredient: 100% Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil.  No preservatives, no fragrance, no paraben and not even water. Just pure, cold pressed organic Argan Oil. Cosmetic research have shown that when you combine Argan Oil with other ingredients you actually DEGRADE the beneficial effects.

2. Packaging
Do not buy Argan Oil sold in clear or plastic bottles. Light breaks down the oil’s best properties and dark tinted glass is the only way to store this precious oil. 

3. Price
Argan Oil is difficult to produce, labour tedious and can't possibly be the same price as any other vegetable oil. The price of Argan is also determined by the concentration in the bottle. This is not to say that the most expensive Argan Oil is the best either. Sure, the $19.90 brand looks really good but essentially contain less than 10% of Argan. But you also want to make sure you are paying for pure Argan Oil, not expensive marketing exercises and fancy packaging.

4. The scent
Argan oil has a mild nutty aroma. The scent disappears after few minutes upon contact with your skin, as true Argan Oil absorbs quickly. You should avoid strong smelling or odourless oil. Fragrance is also not necessarily a merit.

5. Texture
Argan Oil should be smooth, non-sticky and not too watery.  It should disappear into your skin quickly and provide a soothing effect upon application.

6.  Color
Pure Argan Oil from Morocco is a golden yellow colour. If the colour is too light, it is most likely diluted or mixed with other oils. Culinary Argan is a golden brown colour and should be avoided. 

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7. Culinary vs Cosmetic
There are two types of Argan Oil in the market - cosmetic grade and culinary grade. To obtain culinary Argan Oil, the nuts are first roasted, which destroy most of the cosmetic rich nutrients. Cosmetic grade is not roasted and hence contains all the essential nutrients required by the skin and hair. Ensure that you are buying virgin or cold pressed Argan.

8. Fair trade
Look for ethically sourced pure Argan grown in the UNESCO protected Argan forest. The money you pay will help the local citizens. Argan Oil plays a vital in supporting local economy. We only sell 100% pure organic Argan Oil produced in Morocco by 22 cooperatives that give local women jobs to feed their children and families.

100% Pure Organic Argan Oil is available from our Carlton City Hotel studio for $45.00 (50ml). Limited stock available, reservation highly recommended.
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    About 

    This blog is intended to provide wholesome information on natural fragrance, sustainable skincare and eco-living. All reasonable care has been taken in the content provided. Please use all guidance and recommendation with care and not as a guide to self-diagnosis and treatment. We disclaim all responsibility for any liability, personal risk and damage incurred directly or indirectly as a consequence of the use/application of any of the products and content listed.

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