Search Results for “mica”

Mica – The Sad Story Behind

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in Cream, Culture.

Ever heard of mica? And you probably have it somewhere in your cosmetics bag. Because mica is the pigment that makes eye shadows, powders and lipsticks shimmer so beautifully. But it’s not just makeup products that are adorned with the precious pearlescent shimmer. Mica is also used for coatings, for example in the automotive industry. The pigment is not the real problem, but how it is obtained. In itself, mica is not evil. It is a naturally occurring mineral. So it is not problematic for the user. But its extraction often takes place under inhumane conditions – through child labor. This must be stopped. The first steps have already been taken. A major step in the right direction is an initiative that was founded in January 2017. At that time, representatives of 20 companies and organizations worldwide got together and founded the “Responsible Mica Initiative” (RMI). Its goal is to eliminate child labor in mica supply chains. All RMI members must commit to buying only raw substances from legal mines. The association is also committed to transparency and the implementation of workplace standards for mine workers. The initiative now has 80 members from all sectors of industry. These include Chanel, Clarins, Coty, Shiseido, L’Oréal, Sephora, H&M, Porsche and the BMW Group. The children’s charity Terre des Hommes is also part of it. The versatile mineral Mica is a term that comes from Latin. It means something like “glitter” or “shine”. The sheen typical of mica depends on the particle size. The smaller the particle size, the more matte the pigments are and the higher the opacity. “The size of the pigment also determines how shiny something is. A soft eyeshadow needs smaller particles to make it look smooth. Smaller particles create shine, while larger particles create a strong glitter effect,” explains makeup developer Rowena Bird from the cosmetic company lush. The silicate mineral is used in various products from blush to make-up pencils, from nail polish to carnival colors. Mica can even be found in children’s products such as shower gel, bath soap and toothpaste. And because it makes powders easier to make, it is often used as a filler in mineral makeup. Mica belongs to the so-called mica group, and is also disparagingly called cat’s silver or fool’s gold. On the INCI list, it can be found under the designation CI 77019 or as Potassium Aluminum Silicate. Combined with titanium oxide To create different colors and various gloss or glitter effects, the mica particles are coated with an oxide – usually titanium oxide.… weiterlesen

The Balcony Power Station As A Sustainable Energy Source In Your Own Home

Written by Patrick Willemer on . Posted in living.

Balcony power stations are a good approach. In an age of rising energy prices and growing environmental awareness, more and more households are looking for ways to generate their own electricity in an environmentally friendly way. The use of balcony power stations is a concept that has become increasingly popular in recent years. These mini solar power plants allow tenants to produce renewable energy directly on their balconies. In an exclusive guest article, Patrick Willemer Patrick Willemer reports on the topic and provides valuable tips How landlords can benefit from balcony power stations A tenant’s decision to install a such a power plant can present a unique opportunity for landlords. From increasing the appeal of their properties to environmentally conscious tenants to potential tax benefits. The trend towards sustainable living is on the rise and balcony power plants could become a key differentiator for landlords. Properties that are already equipped with environmentally friendly technologies are becoming more attractive. The installation of balcony power plants can not only arouse the interest of potential tenants, but also have a positive impact on rental prices. Landlords could also benefit from various government subsidy programs that support the use of renewable energies in residential buildings. These financial incentives could not only cover the costs of installing balcony power plants, but also mean an additional profit for landlords.. Balcony power plants in urban areas: challenges and opportunities While balcony power stations are undoubtedly an innovative concept for decentralized energy generation, they are not without their challenges. Their integration into densely populated urban areas brings with it architectural and urban planning considerations. Questions of aesthetics and integration into the cityscape are just as important as technical considerations regarding grid stability and optimal utilization of solar energy. Another aspect is possible conflicts of interest between tenants and landlords when it comes to the use of such technologies. Clear agreements and transparent communication can contribute to the successful implementation of balcony power plants in urban areas. Energy transition with balcony power plants Such concepts could be more than just a local solution. In this article, we explore the potential of these mini solar power plants to revolutionize the energy market. From the creation of decentralized energy communities to integration into smart grid systems, we show how balcony power plants could play a crucial role in the future energy supply. Decentralized energy generation through balcony power plants could play a key role in the implementation of a sustainable energy transition.… weiterlesen

Wild Herbs – 3 Superfoods From Nature

Written by Sabine Häberlein on . Posted in Health & Beauty.

Collecting wild herbs is not only fun and an activity in the great outdoors, it also benefits our health. Nutritionist and herb expert Sabine Häberlein explains how to recognize them and what they can do. Wild herbs are in season right now in spring. May in particular brings us a rich selection of wild herbs. It is the time of fresh spring greenery, new beginnings, growth and renewal. The wild herbs that are now growing so fast we can almost watch them reflect this energy. Here I introduce you to the three top representatives with three benefits: they’re widely available, you can easily recognize them and they support you if you want to lose weight. 🌱 Goutweed is a true superfood. It contains lots of vitamin C, iron and potassium and is particularly good for detoxifying the body. Its taste is reminiscent of parsley. Use it fresh in salads or process it into delicious soups or pesto. 🌱 Stinging nettle is another wild plant that is often dismissed as a weed. However, it is a real health booster as it contains lots of iron, vitamin C and E. Use it in soups, salads or as a tea. I pick up a fresh nettle leaf every day. It protects me from iron deficiency. 🌱 The dandelion is not only a beautiful flower, but also a medicinal herb. It contains lots of potassium, vitamin C and bitter substances that stimulate the metabolism and digestion. The leaves add a spicy note to salads. The petals with their bright yellow color are not only a pretty decoration for various dishes. They also provide valuable ingredients that stimulate the metabolism and digestion. The leaves add a spicy note to salads. The wonderful world of plants Have you ever wondered what’s growing in the meadow on your walks? Do you want to know which of these wild herbs are edible and which you should stay away from? Are you interested in which plants have healing powers? In these days, we are used to buying our food in the supermarket.  But there is another way. Nature offers a wide range of plants that can enrich our diet. Of course, it is not possible for us all to become self-sufficient. But every now and then a pesto made from garlic rocket or a wild herb salad can complement our food really well. Not only do these dishes taste delicious, they also provide a concentrated load of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals – far more than cultivated plants can.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: “Vit C + Biobotox Serum” from Doc.Berger

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

Biobotox in combination with vitamin C sounds interesting. After all, both are helpers against premature ageing of the skin. The latter is not only known as an effective antioxidant that protects the skin from the “evil” free radicals. This is because these can accelerate the ageing process. Vitamin C is partly responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. By stimulating collagen production. Ultimately, this helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Not to forget: The vitamin has a brightening effect. It has the ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and age spots and brightens the complexion. Biobotox instead of botulinum toxin? Biobotox is being hyped as a competitor to Botox therapy in anti-ageing care. But there is no comparison. While botulinum toxin specifically blocks the muscles and paralyzes them for a certain period of time, Biobotox primarily has a relaxing effect on the surface of the skin. The substance is a plant-based active ingredient such as spilanthol from paracress or argireline, an organic chemical compound consisting of six amino acids, which is why it is also known as a hexapeptide. Argireline is also known as “Notox” and is injected as deeply as possible into the skin using microneedling. However, you should never expect the effects of a Botox injection. But for those who are injection-phobic, it is a soft alternative to at least counteract fine expression lines. But that’s not all. The biobotox power serum also contains other highly effective anti-ageing substances. The first is ferulic acid, which has a similar effect to vitamin C (3-O-Vit.C). The two are a powerful duo that activates collagen production. Ferulic acid is an organic compound found in various plants, e.g. stinkash, dill, rice or sweet grasses such as wheat or barley. Purslane is also an active ingredient of plant origin. In German it is also known as purslane extract. In anti-ageing skincare, it is said to have pore-refining, rejuvenating, moisturizing and soothing properties. But more importantly: Purslane is an innovative time-control molecule that protects the telomeres, i.e. the caps of the chromosomes, and thus ensures the longevity of the cells. My test The “Vit C + Biobotox Serum” comes in a brown pipette bottle. This makes sense because vitamin C is extremely sensitive to heat and light. The liquid is also brown. Which I like less because I find the color very uncosmetic. But that is purely a subjective preference. I like the slightly musty smell even less.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Facial cleansing mask “Purifying Mask” by Royal Fern

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

Time for a mask, now. Once a week it can be a little more. It’s mask time for me and my skin as a supplement to my daily skincare routine. I feel like a little extra care, my skin needs it. I prefer to leave the face mask on while I take a warm bath. It’s so wonderfully relaxing after a long, tiring day. Gel mask: blue first, then transparent This week I chose the brand new “Purifying Mask” from Royal Fern . It’s a gel mask that cleanses the skin and refines its surface. The gel comes out of a bluish transparent tube, which is also blue with a slight hint of gray. But don’t worry, you won’t turn into a blue smurf. Applied to the skin in a thin layer, the texture of the gel is transparent. It goes without saying that the face must be cleansed beforehand and the skin must be dry. The gel is super light on the skin. Nothing sticks. After about 15 minutes, I have the feeling that the product starts to tighten slightly on the skin. It doesn’t feel uncomfortable at all, but I think the application time is enough for me. Between 10 and 20 minutes is recommended. So I remove the gel with a damp cloth. Tip: The thinner the layer you have applied, the easier it is to wash the gel off. Clear, radiant skin Afterwards, my skin is remarkably radiant. It looks nourished and well moisturized. This is not always the case with cleansing masks, as they often leave an unpleasant feeling of tightness afterwards. A sign that the skin has dried out. The Royal Fern cleansing mask is completely different. The gel owes this care benefit to a mixture of natural extracts and skin-caring nutrients. Tranexam acid lightens and minimizes pigmentation spots, which are often caused by pimples and acne. White willow bark is a natural alternative to salicylic acid, a chemical substance. It acts as a gentle exfoliant, refining pores, fighting impurities and smoothing the skin’s surface. Niacinamide helps to regulate sebum production. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and can therefore reduce redness. As in all Royal Fern products from the Munich dermatologist Dr. Timm Golüke, it also contains a patented complex whose main properties are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. I give full marks for a mask that cleanses my skin and leaves it radiant at the same time.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Skin-friendly UV protection “Sun Emulsion SPF 50” from Skinome

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

Skin-friendly UV protection is essential to keep the skin young and healthy. However, organic chemical filters in particular can do more harm than good and trigger allergies, especially in sensitive people. If they also contain fragrances and preservatives, they add to the problem. The Swedish Beauty-Brand Skinome s committed to being “skin-friendly”, even when it comes to sun care. For more than 10 years, brand founder Dr. Johanna Gillbro, an experimental and clinical dermatologist, has been researching healthy stimulants for intact skin flora. Her microbiome-friendly active care made from freshly manufactured products is based on her own specially developed laboratory formulations. Skin-friendly UV protection protects the microbiome In March 2024, the Sun Emulsion SPF50+ skincare product based on the latest research will be launched. The skin-friendly UV protection is based on Skinome’s concept of fresh, microbiome-friendly and unscented skincare without unnecessary additives and preservatives so as not to disrupt the skin’s own microbiome. The emulsion is designed to reduce the risk of UV-induced signs of ageing such as wrinkles, pigmentation spots and broken veins. I was allowed to test it in advance. “It is above all the UV filters that make the product unique. With our combination of the best and safest mineral and organic UV filters, you benefit from the advantages of both filter types, resulting in safe and secure sun protection that is also pleasant and comfortable to use,” explains Ulf Åkerström, Chief Innovation Officer at Skinome and one of Sweden’s leading sun protection experts. Skin-friendly UV protection protects the environment Skinome uses these innovative large molecule organic filters that are non-hormonally active while providing photostable and balanced UVA and UVB protection. The mineral filters and the latest and most advanced organic UV filters have better environmental properties to minimize the impact of the product on the environment. I like the minimalist concept of Skinome and the clever dispenser. No fiddly opening of the tube or jar. With a single twist of the cap, the dispenser nozzle is “on” and it is just as easy to close again. The texture is extremely light for a sun cream and is beautifully matt on the skin. I use it as my only day cream because it contains sufficient moisturizing ingredients such as lecithin, urea and ceramides. As long as my skin is not yet tinted by the sun, I mix in my favorite tanning drops from Oskia London – and the sunkissed look is complete.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: radiant complexion with “Glow Drops” from Typology

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

A radiant complexion drop by drop. Yes, that’s what I want – and not just for major holidays and festive occasions, but every day. This means that the glow on my face must not be too penetrating and conspicuous, but must look beautifully subtle. A real radiant complexion. And I have found my perfect recipe for this: Duo for a radiant complexion For my radiant complexion I use the “Glow Concentrate 5% Vitamin C + Aloe Vera” (Glow Drops) and the “9-Ingredient Facial Care”. Both from Typololy. It is the perfect duo for an instant, vibrant glow to the skin. All tiredness disappears from the face. The “Glow Concentrate” contains antioxidant vitamin C and aloe vera for a fresh radiance. The mica particles still look very intensely shimmering in the bottle, but as soon as you use the pipette to mix two to three drops into your foundation, tinted serum or day cream, the shine factor is minimized. In this way, you can also determine the intensity of your glow yourself. For a more intense result, simply add a few more drops. Because I’m not a foundation user, I use Typology’s “9-Ingredient” moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, which is derived from fermented wheat. Another key ingredient is organic coconut oil, which nourishes the skin and prevents it from drying out. I find the minimalist, fragrance-free cream perfect for me because of its light, non-oily texture. This makes it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Good mixture For my personal glow complexion, I put 3-4 Glow Drops in the palm of my hand and mix them with a hazelnut-sized amount of moisturizer. I prefer to use a small spatula for mixing to get a homogeneous amount. I spread it evenly over the entire face. For an extra kick, I also apply a little of the shine concentrate as a highlighter – selectively on the highest point of the cheekbones and/or under both brow arches. In the evening, I cleanse my face as usual with micellar water. For environmental reasons, I use reusable pads that my sister made for me. Not only are they practical, they also look pretty in the bathroom. Hydrating Glow Duo from Typology consisting of “Glow Concentrate 5% Vitamin C + Aloe Vera”, 15ml, and “9-Ingredient Facial Care”, 50 ml. Together 39.80 euros, en.typology.com… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Make-up palette “Here You Glow” by Loni Baur

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

Make-up palettes are not really my thing. Half of the colors and products I’ve bought so far have mostly remained unused. The green was too glittery for me, the mascara brush too thick and greasy, the eyebrow pencil far too hard. As a result, many a palette ended up in the bin at some point. Anything but economical and environmentally friendly. That’s right! That’s why I haven’t bought a palette for a long time. Make-up palette by Loni Baur Why I have now broken my resolution is down to Loni Baur. As a beauty journalist, I have experienced her live as a make-up artist on many occasions. I admire her know-how, creativity and expertise. She is one of the most successful German make-up artists for good reason. Loni has been creating looks for Fashion Weeks for 25 years, has done make-up for stars such as Charlène of Monaco, Gigi Hadid and Lenny Kravitz and has worked with well-known designers and renowned magazines. In April 2022, she launched her own make-up line LONI BAUR. She is a make-up artist with a huge amount of experience in make-up and looks. That’s why I was so excited about her own beauty products and simply had to make an exception for her palette. Loni on her collection: “I have set myself the goal of making all my experience and knowledge of what makes a look special and how to achieve it accessible to everyone. The individual steps are super easy to recreate and require no prior professional knowledge.“ Two palettes, endless looks Loni Baur actually has two palettes in her make-up line: “The Face Edition 01 – Here You Glow”, which I chose, and “The Face Edition 02 – Get Reddy”. The latter contains everything for a modern statement look with red lips and midnight blue eyeliner – cool for daytime as well as for a glamorous evening look. Both palettes contain everything you need for a complete professional look. Incidentally, I didn’t imagine them to be so large – they are more of a “make-up table” than a simple make-up palette as you would normally expect. I want “Glow” My “Here You Glow” palette with its soft peach tones is perfect for a natural glowy look with soft peach tones that I can use for every day, but also for special occasions. It contains 12 brilliant products in great, all-day-all-night colors: powder bronzer, blush and highlighter, blush stick, three powder eyeshadows, brow pencil duo, eye pencil duo, mascara, nude couture lipstick and a transparent brow gel.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Wake up fit with “vedi up” by Sandhya

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

“vedi up” – Waking up fit in the morning, even if the night before was long, the drinks a bit too much and the food too rich. Is that possible? Waking up without a hangover or feeling of fullness from the night before, but starting the day fit? Sandhya has the recipe for it: Ayurvedic capsules for a better wake-up experience. They are vegan and consist of powerful plant extracts, inspired by traditional Indian medicine, which nevertheless work for our western lifestyle. Wake up fit thanks to seven power plants Seven highly potent substances are in the capsules: Chicory root has bitter substances that stimulate liver protection, strengthen intestinal health and the immune system. Kalmegh herb is highly valued in Ayurveda for its blood purifying effect, provides balance in case of mental and physical overload. Grape seed extract is known for its antioxidant effects. Contains oligomeric proabthocyanides (OPC), which, taken before or during the party, are released in the following sleep. Date fruit powder has high levels of fiber, minerals such as potassium, calcium, and anti-inflammatory magnesium, and supports liver metabolism. The bitter cruciferous flower plays an important role in Ayurveda because of its antibacterial and detoxifying effects. Amla fruit also supports toxin removal in the liver. Ashwagandha root, on the other hand, is not without reason known as “sleeping berry”: It is used as a harmonizing element that reduces stress and anxiety, prevents sleep disorders, increases performance and inhibits inflammation. “vedi up” – bringing enjoyment and health into harmony I usually don’t drink a lot of alcohol. But my summer life in Tuscany requires exceptions. Negroni or Sprizz are particularly tasty here, the food so delicious that even I like to reach for it once too often. It’s not unusual for my stomach to feel so full in the evening that it’s hard to get to sleep and I wake up the next morning still stuffed and with an unpleasant feeling in my stomach. I can do without that, but I don’t want to miss the Tuscan evenings with friends and family. Then I heard about the Ayurvedic capsules “vedi upfrom Sandhya under the motto “balance is not something you find, it’s something you create”. That’s right, after all I am responsible for my own well-being and I have always been a great believer in Ayurveda. In the “vedi up” capsules there is a lot of it, plants and their components, which can have a balancing influence on our organism.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Setting Spray „Boost“ from Beautyblender

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in #me.

Boost 4-in-1 Firming Peptide Setting Spray sounds promising, but what is it exactly? It is a multitasking spray that sets makeup for up to 18 hours. In the process, it is supposed to plump up the skin, make pores disappear and reduce an unsightly shine. Micro-powders are at work as pore refiners and against shine. Peptides and mimosa flower extract are said to make the skin appear firmer in the long term. Caffeine helps the complexion feel more invigorated and soft. Setting spray with peptides And what about the peptides, which are already promised in the product name. These tiny molecules are particularly powerful and help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration, as well as loss of firmness. According to the chemical definition, peptides are smaller proteins. Their building blocks are several amino acids linked by peptide bonds. This is where the name comes from. Peptides have numerous functions in nature – some act as messengers in plants, others are hormones in the human body. In the skin, peptides can strengthen the cells by ensuring that the proteins can better develop their effect. At the same time, UV rays, pollutants and bacteria are kept away. Because peptides stimulate the production of collagen, the skin looks firmer and younger over time. My spray test The spray from the pink bottle does not need to be shaken, but is already ready for use. I close the eyelids so that nothing gets into the eyes when spraying. If so, wash out immediately with clean water! The setting spray smells delicately of mimosa and lays weightlessly on my skin. In fact, I think I feel an immediate slightly tightening surface effect as soon as the evaporation of the liquid begins. The skin feels plump and supple. The makeup or whatever color you wear on your skin stays in place all day long. I also use Boost over my tinted sunscreen, which otherwise likes to shine a bit. Nothing at all smudges with the Setting Spray, as the texture is moisture resistant and waterproof. In addition, vegan, free of animal testing, oil- and gluten-free. „Boost“ from Beautyblender, 100 ml, 40 Euro… weiterlesen

Traveling and Beauty are my passion.
More about me and cultureandcream

Subscribe to Culture & Cream.

    Yes I want to subscribe to the english version of CultureAndCreme's newsletter. (No worries, we only send once a month!)


    Explanations regarding through your consent accepted terms about success measurement, our use of MailChimp and your right of withdrawal, you can find in our Privacy Policy.

    Instagram.

    Pinterest.

    © 2020 Margit Rüdiger | Impressum | Privacy Agreement| Cookie Policy