Caffeine is not just for our favorite mug anymore....well, unless we're talking about the mug reflected in our mirror. More and more, we are seeing caffeine as a key ingredient in anti-aging skin care formulations. Used over time, caffeine applied to the skin can help smooth and brighten skin...now who doesn't love that?
Recently, I've been using organic ground coffee in both facial applications and body scrubs and testing out new formulations for IVITA botanicals. The result is very impressive - I'm wondering what took me so long to formulate skin care products using organic coffee since the benefits on the skin are quite impressive. Even after a few applications, I can really see and feel the difference on my skin.
One reason coffee is so good for the skin is that it is very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants in topical applications help fight free radicals and improve the overall health of our skin cells. Free radicals can diminish skin's vibrant appearance and damage skin cells - so having skin care products with antioxidants is essential. Coffee also increases circulation in the skin, which can reduce dull appearance and lead to a vibrant fresh glow. Coffee is also anti-inflammatory leading to smoother skin with reduced redness and reduced puffiness. Yes, please!
When formulating skin care products, I aim to create organic skin care that brightens, sooths, evens texture, and improves overall skin health. The healthier our skin becomes the better we look and feel. Over the holidays, I formulated two new skin care scrubs: Organic Coffee & Sugar Facial Scrub and Organic Coffee & Dead Sea Salt Body Scrub. Each are blended with organic cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bean as well as special oils such as pumpkin seed oil, coconut oil, almond oil and hazelnut oil to bring out the vibrancy of each ingredient as well as improve the application to the skin. The result is fresh, vibrant and radiant skin. Followed by body oil and crème - skin feels soft and pampered all day or all night.
Want to have fun with organic ground coffee at home? Try this simple DIY:
- 1 cup organic ground coffee
- 1 cup Dead Sea Salts or Organic Sugar
- 1/2 cup almond oil
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons organic cinnamon powder
- 1 tablespoon powdered orange peel
Mix all ingredients together and place in a jar with lid. Keep by shower and use as often as you like, making sure to avoid introducing water into the scrub container...water can introduce bacteria that can begin to grow. Bacteria growing in your scrub needs to be avoided. The smell will fill you with happiness and your skin will glow with appreciation.
Wishing you a splendid (and happily caffeinated) New Year!
For your skin and for the plants,
Ivy
Blessings to you in 2015!