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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

Better Quality in East Berlin: Why Investors Prefer The East Of The City

Written by Nathmi Abushedeq on . Posted in living.

Better quality in East Germany! The Berlin real estate market shows clear differences between East and West Berlin, which are not only due to historical reasons, but still influence the decisions of developers and investors today. Building quality is better in the East. This is a surprising finding from the practice of many building contractors: the structural quality of buildings in East Berlin is often rated higher than that of buildings in West Berlin. But what is behind this assessment? Robust construction and energy benefits Many of the buildings erected in East Berlin during the GDR era are characterized by their particularly robust construction. These structures, which were built in a time of scarcity and efficiency, were often constructed with durable materials that have survived the ravages of time surprisingly well. Compared to many western buildings, which were built in this period with sometimes less durable materials and under different economicpressures, it is clear that the East Berlin buildings are less prone to structural defects. In addition, these buildings are often of better quality in terms of energy efficiency than one would expect at first glance. Thick walls and solid building fabric ensure that many of these buildings have an excellent insulating effect, which has a positive impact on energy consumption. This plays an important role today, as rising energy costs and the focus on sustainable construction are becoming increasingly relevant. Better quality in the east This is a decisive factor for many building contractors and investors who value sustainability and long-term savings. Buildings with a solid building fabric not only offer stability and security, but are also easier to bring up to modern standards. The energy-efficient refurbishment of these existing buildings offers great potential. By retrofitting modern heating technology, such as heat pumps or solar systems, these properties can be upgraded to a modern energy level without affecting the basic structure of the building. This means that building owners in the east often have to invest less in the substance of the buildings, which saves considerable costs. Potential for renewable energies Another advantage of East Berlin buildings is their often spacious design. Many of the apartment blocks built in the GDR offer large, unused roof areas that are ideal for the installation of photovoltaic systems. This self-production of energy can not only significantly reduce the operating costs of the buildings, but also increase the attractiveness of the properties for environmentally conscious tenants and buyers.… weiterlesen

Niacinamide Is Considered A Power Substance For Your Skin

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in Cream.

Niacinamide creams and serums are currently in the highest demand in drugstores and perfumeries and always sell out the fastest. They are experiencing an absolute run among female consumers. But men also benefit from niacinamide for enlarged pores, spots and wrinkles. Niacinamide is considered a power ingredient. From Nivea to luxury skincare brands such as Dr. Barbara Sturm, no brand today can do without it. Anyone who deals with dietary supplements is sure to have come across the substance niacin. This is vitamin B3 (the chemical name for vitamin B3 is niacin). Niacin is converted into niacinamide in the body and is therefore an important precursor of two co-enzymes of radical importance for the body’s health: NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These two co-enzymes boost the energy of cells and are involved in more than 200 vital enzymatic reactions. It has been scientifically proven that these two co-enzymes decrease with increasing age, particularly in skin tissue. This decline is linked to cell senescence. Aged skin cells secrete less collagen: Niacinamide could help to boost production again. Ageing skin damaged by sunlight can also benefit from this. Niacinamide in serums and creams In skin care, the term niacinamide or nicotinamide is used. Niacinamide is a derivative of vitamin B3, which means that it has a slightly different chemical structural formula to niacin. In the cosmetic field, the water-soluble vitamin B3 derivative is increasingly being mixed into serums or creams. It is considered a remedy for many of the most common problems that can arise from stress, but also from over-care of the skin. Niacinamide is characterized by five important benefits in skin care: It is a “cell-communicating” ingredient that helps to strengthen the building blocks of the skin barrier – ceramides and keratin. Improving the barrier makes the skin more resistant to external influences. An increased ceramide level means that moisture can be stored better. This in turn improves the texture of the skin. It looks plumper and feels softer. As the vitamin B3 derivative regulates melanin production, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tones can be reduced. The complexion looks healthier and less dull as niacinamide counteracts the glycation process that contributes to collagen breakdown. It has a kind of blurring effect: its anti-inflammatory properties not only help to reduce redness and small imperfections, it can also reduce dark circles under the eyes. The power in gredient can also reduce the size of pores and improve the appearance of blackheads.… weiterlesen

Blue Light: Blue Alert

Written by Margit Rüdiger on . Posted in Health & Beauty.

Blue light has been with us all day long since smartphones, tablets and computers became part of our everyday lives. We are said to use our cell phones alone up to 150 times a day. According to a study by auditing firm EY, Germans aged 21-30 spend 6.9 hours a day surfing, using apps and playing games. Blue light is not as harmless as you might think. These are rays that penetrate deeper into our skin than UVA rays. Although research is still in its infancy, creams and glasses are already available to protect the skin and eyes from the effects of blue light. Blue Light – what exactly is it? Blue light is not an invention of the computer age. Blue light, known as HEV light (High Energy Visible Light), has always existed. It is the visible light that colors the sky such a beautiful blue. In the wave spectrum, it lies directly next to the UV range, so it also occurs in normal daylight. It makes up almost half of the sunlight spectrum. But it’s not just our popular communication tools that emit blue light, neon tubes and modern LEDs do too. Excessive exposure to such light sources can damage the eyes and disrupt the sleep-wake rhythm. This has been scientifically proven. But blue light also has its good sides: In small doses, it can also have positive effects, just like sunlight. In dermatology, blue light has been used for years specifically to treat acne and neurodermatitis. Studies have shown that it also benefits the psyche, e.g. in cases of winter depression. Do you already have a “screen face”? Less encouraging is a more recent finding that radiation causes us to age prematurely. Experts speak of “indoor smog” and the “screen face”. “Blue light penetrates deep into the lower layers of the skin,” explains Swiss dermatologist Dr. Felix Bertram. “We assume that the high-energy blue light causes oxidative stress in the skin, similar to UVA radiation.” On its way into the deep tissue layers, HEV forms large quantities of free radicals, which cause the destruction of important connective tissue fibers such as collagen and elastin. This in turn causes wrinkles to appear at an early stage and the skin loses elasticity, particularly in the chin and cheek area. In addition, the natural barrier layer becomes weaker and therefore more susceptible to external influences. This then manifests itself in irritation and redness, for example.… 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