Author: Margit Rüdiger

CultureAndCream Author from Munich To travel during my profession as a beauty journalist was never enough for my. Also my six month on a world trip didn't do it. It always attracts me to other cities, foreign countries, on roadtrips and places I don't know yet. But I am not only interested in "culture" and "cream", I am also fascinated by people who have stories to tell .  Such unique experiences I want to share with you.

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT…AND SO IS YOUR SKIN

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THE GOOD It probably won’t surprise you that foods considered healthy for your body are also beneficial for your skin. Fresh fruits and vegetables, and certain fats in fish, nuts, and seeds will go a long way towards a glowing complexion. Here’s the lowdown on the must-eat nutrients & foods to eat for healthy skin: FRUITS AND VEGGIES A key part of creating your own best diet for skin health, is consuming enough fruit and vegetables. Fruit and veggies contain many vitamins and minerals essential in nutrition for healthy skin. Here are some of the key nutrients & what they do, along with what foods to eat for good skin: Skin benefits of Vitamin A: There are many Vitamin A benefits for skin, such as:– Heals damaged skin– Moderates oil production and moisture levels– Improves hyperpigmentation– Stimulates collagen production– Prevents breakouts– Reduces the chance of certain kinds of skin cancer. Skin benefits of Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid, there are many vitamin c benefits for skin contained in this powerful antioxidant:– Neutralizes free radicals– Repairs damaged skin cells (including UV damage)– Improves skin tone two ways: lightens hyperpigmentation and inhibits melanin production Red peppers: lots of Vitamin C Brussels sprouts: Vitamin C & antioxidantsBlueberries: Vitamin C and antioxidantsMangoes: Vitamins A, C, and B6, which is said to reduce excess oilCarrots: Beta carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in your liverTomatoes: Lycopene, an antioxidant that helps fight UV damageSweet potatoes (with skin on): Beta carotene, magnesium (has anti-inflammatory agents) and fiber GOOD FATS (OILS, SEEDS, AND NUTS) Certain fatty acids are the building blocks of our body–including our skin. Good fats also help your body absorb essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, E and K. MONOUNSATURATED FATS What they do: Some monounsaturated fat benefits include helping the water level in the epidermis, and supply the ceramides (fatty acid compounds) that keep skin healthy and intact.There are many foods high in monounsaturated fat, and some excellent sources of monounsaturated fats include:Peanut oilCanola oilAvocadosMost nutsHigh-oleic safflower & sunflower oils.Olive oil is the king of the monounsaturated fat family–it also contains antioxidants, and modest amounts of Vitamins E and K.Studies show that women who eat more vegetables and olive oil have better skin protection against damage from UV exposure.  POLYUNSATURATED FATS There are two main types of polyunsaturated fats: omega-3 and omega-6. Many people are familiar with omega 3 benefits and the many fish oil benefits for health and skin.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Washies Faceline

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What we’ve all learned: What we put on our face in the morning has to be removed in the evening. Because nothing harms the skin more than sending it to bed with make-up. Cleaning wipes and make-up removal products cause waste. If the skin is sensitive, it often reacts with irritation to rubbing it with a cotton pad or facial tissue. A wash pad made of 88 percent of the finest microfibres and 12 percent viscose should enable thorough cleaning – with just water. I wanted to know more about that. Fluffy and sustainable When I take the two-tone pad, mine is white and pink, out of the paper packaging, I am amazed at how soft it feels. As recommended, I moisten it with warm water to activate the effect of the special microfibres. I run the white side over my face in circular motions. The daytime dirt shows up on the washie. And the concealer, I don’t use foundation, leaves brownish marks. The skin appears to be clean. Test: Post-cleaning with a toner proves it. Now it goes to the eyes. Brow powder and normal mascara can be easily removed without rubbing too much. The next day, I raise the bar a little higher and put washies on my waterproof mascara. I press the pad on my eyes for a few seconds. Little loosens. The cleaning process only works with more intensive rubbing. However, the eye area is now slightly reddened and feels dry and tight. Here I would rather use a special eye makeup remover. After each use, the washies should be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water. I do that too. But I don’t want to use them much more than twice and they end up in the washing machine at up to 95 degrees (without fabric softener). As with the classic washcloth, I would be afraid that germs would happily multiply in the damp environment. I’d rather buy myself a weekly ration of washies. Washies Faceline Pads 3 pieces set, ca. 9,74 Euro… weiterlesen

No More Plastic in the Bathroom

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Between 4 and 13 million tons of plastic packaging waste end up in the oceans every year, writes the WWF on its blog. It can no longer be fished out and the material is particularly durable. Plastic takes several hundred years to decompose… But we don’t have that much time. The oceans are already among the dirtiest places in the world. Real plastic rubbish tsunamis made of bags, bottles, straws and toothbrushes flood the beaches. In every square kilometer of oceans there are already 46,000 pieces of plastic waste. Not all comes from cruise ships and container ships that illegally dump their rubbish into the sea. Or beach goers who leave their plastic waste lying around or throw it straight into the water. Much begins at home in our own four walls. Who thinks that environmental pollution starts in our washing machine? Synthetic fiber textiles lose around 2,000 tiny fibers with each wash cycle, which neither get caught in the machine’s sieve nor in sewage treatment plants. They get directly into the ocean. In addition, there are millions of microplastic particles from tire abrasion, plastic textiles or cosmetics such as peeling, toothpaste, shower gel and contact lens cleaners, which are transported onwards via rivers. And then there are the many plastic packaging that has to be disposed of. The prognoses are bleak. If we do nothing, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish in 2050. By then, almost every sea bird could have what is often fatal “food” in its stomach. Recycling isn’t everything Not all plastic is recyclable – or is recycled. According to the ministry, around 45 percent of all plastic waste in Germany is “recycled”, i.e. not incinerated. Far too often, design takes precedence over the environment. Admittedly, the black colored detergent bottle, the foil-coated shampoo bottle already look pretty good. But that makes recycling difficult or even prevents it, because the machines cannot recognize and sort the material. Avoiding more and more plastic waste must therefore come first. Find out the bad ones Fortunately, we consumers are becoming more and more aware of the issue. If you want to be sure that you are buying plastic-free cosmetics, you have to use the products of a label for controlled natural cosmetics. Otherwise, the following applies: “Many care products contain plastic, either in particle form or in liquid form,” says Birgit Corall, owner of the two lines “cobicos” and “Living Nature“.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: Hillinger Cosmetics „Sauvignon Masque“

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The name raises expectations. But anyone who thinks that the typical fruity note of a Sauvignon Blanc rises into their noses with the cream mask on their face will be disappointed. You better grab a bottle of Sauvignon from the famous Austrian winemaker Leo Hillinger. Incidentally, he is exactly who is behind the new organic cosmetic line (www. whenvinaturals.com/en). To do this, he not only processes the grapes themselves, but also everything that the vine provides in terms of goodies – from the buds to the pips to the grape water. From the texture of the mask you can only smell a slightly sour wine note with imagination. But the smell is ultimately not decisive for such a product, the effect is much more important. The most important ingredient is resveratrol, a polyphenol from the skin of red grapes, which stimulates cells and has a firming effect. It is supported by other polyphenols such as oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC), which are considered to be one of the most powerful antioxidants found in nature. In addition, organic grape seed oil and water, grape seed and bud extract. So smooth The mask is light and creamy on the skin. After just a few minutes, my skin “swallowed” them in various places on the cheeks and the forehead where the skin is especially dry. After 15 minutes it is almost completely absorbed. My skin is obviously very thirsty. I remove the few remaining cream residues with a paper towel. The mirror check: the complexion looks well supplied with blood and looks plump. The finger check: the skin feels soft and nourished thanks to care and moisturizing substances such as natural hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, evening primrose oil, vitamins E and C. „Sauvignon Masque“ von Hillinger Cosmetics, 75ml, ca. 20 Euro… weiterlesen

Do you know the pH of your daily skin care?

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We have all heard of pH. At the latest when the doctor has measured it in the urine in order to check the acid-base balance. But very few of us know the skin pH, which is actually lower than in the body, and even less that of our skin care products. The pH level is an important parameter for the much-vaunted glow and health of our skin. As long as it doesn’t cause problems, who cares. But if redness, peeling and itching become noticeable, you should know what the pH value is like and, if necessary, reconsider your care habits. During my research, I discovered how seldom it is actually shown on products. But first a little more to understand: Back to school pH stands for “potential of hydrogen”), it is derived from the Latin word “potentia hydrogenii“. This differentiates alkalis from acids. The value scale ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (basic / alkaline. Neutral pure water is in the middle and has a pH of 7. Everything below that counts as acid, from 7 onwards the alkalis start. A pH value lower than 2 or higher than 12 must be understood as extremes that are harmful to the skin and can lead to chemical burns. This is what makes chemical peels – in this case the desired – effect. Lactic acid for example has a pH of 1.8. Where is water, there is a pH This also applies to the human body. If it consists of 95% water at birth, it is still almost 70% in adulthood, which corresponds to a water volume of approx. 43 liters. The skin has its own pH. According to the latest research, the healthy, so-called skin surface pH should reach 4.7 / 4.8. The previous average of 5.5 is considered out of date. An enormous challenge for cosmetics producers, because most products on the market are well above this value. In any case, the healthy environment of our skin is slightly acidic. Only then is it able to successfully ward off harmful microorganisms and other external environmental influences Just don’t irritate! The task of our skin care is to maintain this physiological acidity. But that’s when it often begins that we do too much of a good thing and unconsciously harm our skin rather than good. What does that mean exactly? Actually, you should avoid everything that dries them out, such as constant disinfection and frequent washing.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: medipharma cosmetics „Hyaluron Mizellen-Reinigungswasser“

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When micellar tonics hit the market, it was a small revolution in the cleansing routine. The principle is old, soap is also based on it. You throw elongated molecules that are non-polar (water-repellent) on one side and polar (water-friendly) on the other into the polar water, then they form tiny spheres, the micelles (from Latin mica, lump). These act like a magnet by binding dirt and grease to themselves. The molecules contained in modern micellar water are patented surfactants that are particularly fat-dissolving. That is why they cleanse so effectively that you do not have to work on the skin with pressure or friction. A clear deal Indeed it is. I put the clear micellar water (only the bottle is blue!) on a cotton pad and gently run it over the face, neck and décolleté. It not only smells pleasantly pure and fresh, it also feels that way. Leftovers from my concealer, mascara and brow powder collect on the pad, as do sebum and the dirt from the day. The skin feels fresh and I don’t have to rub it to feel like it’s really cleansed. Double check: Nevertheless, I take another cotton pad and go over the face a second time with the micelle cleaner. The cotton wool stays white. The skin feels clean, moisturized (pharmaceutical hyaluronic acid) and well-groomed (panthenol). Rinse off is not necessary. There is also no feeling of tension, as I know it from other facial toners, because the product does not contain any alcohol. So I can continue with the rest of the day or evening routine immediately. By the way, I have found that make-up brushes can also be perfectly cleaned with it and after applying a self-tanner I use it to clean my hands. For me, “Hyaluronic Micellar Cleansing Water” is not just 3 in 1, but 5 in 1. medicos pharma „Hyaluronic Micellar Cleansing Water“, 200 ml, ca. 11 Euro… weiterlesen

Tested for you: M.Asam „Retinol Intense Bakuchiol Oil Gel Mask“

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Ever heard of Bakuchiol? It is THE trendy ingredient in skin care and the herbal alternative to retinol. As a reminder: Retinol, the pure vitamin A acid, is considered by dermatologists to be one of the most effective active ingredients. In a way, it is a miracle weapon for the complexion. It smoothes and refines the skin, strengthens the tissue structure and helps with pigment spots. Bakuchiol is the gentle alternative from nature. It is also said to have a high antioxidant effect, which protects the skin from free radicals that promote premature skin aging. The active ingredient is obtained from the seeds of the Babchi plant (Psoralea corylifolia). Ayurveda and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) have been using them for centuries as natural remedies for numerous skin problems. Bakuchiol is also becoming increasingly popular with us. It is also the main active ingredient in the “oil-gel mask”. An unfamiliar texture for a face mask. A very special texture When opening the jar, I have some difficulties because the protective film sits tight and is only removable in bits and pieces. Then it is finally exposed, the golden yellow gel texture. Kind of reminds me of honey, but it doesn’t stick. It is also firm enough that it does not melt when you pick it up with a spatula. The rich texture is easy to spread on the face, neck and décolleté, which has been naturally cleaned beforehand. I leave the eye area free. A slight feeling of warmth spreads across the skin. Not uncomfortable, but clearly noticeable. The ideal winter product! I leave the oil mask on for 10 minutes while I do a quick manicure. Works well because the oil-gel texture doesn’t drip from the face. When removed with lukewarm water, it turns into a milky cream. The skin that appears underneath is rosy – not to say slightly reddened. But that goes away quickly. The complexion looks plump and smooth like after an intensive treatment at the beautician. Lines and wrinkles appear minimized. However, a slight feeling of tension soon becomes noticeable on my skin. Time for serum and cream. However, I do not use another product with retinol, as it is in my night cream. It could become too much for my skin. M.Asam „Retinol Intense Bakuchiol Oil Gel Mask“ , 100 ml, ca 30 Euro Aufmacherphoto: Anna Gorbacheva@iStock… weiterlesen

Concealer – One that Can do Everything for You

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For me Concealer is almost as vital in the morning as the first coffee. Slept badly? Then he conjures up the dark shadows from under the eyes. Eaten wrong? Concealer makes red spots disappear. Pimple alarm? Cover and that’s it. But it is also irreplaceable for optical cheating like fuller lips and perfect brows. What he does not forgive, however, are errors in the application. Concealer doesn’t like it when he is visible. He works under cover, so to speak. His look is a no-makeup look. If the concealer is to work invisibly on the face, the right choice of color and texture is essential. Have you got it already? Right. You can’t get by with just one concealer if the “cheating” as such is not to be seen. What you need is a lighter, not too compact version and a darker, but somewhat thicker version. The former should be a shade lighter than your own skin. But: Do not use stubbornly all year round, but always adapt to the season, i.e. the tan! Light can be used against dark circles under the eyes or for small make-up tricks, which we will get to later. A liquid texture or cream that melts gently is easier to blend and pat so thinly into the sensitive skin under the eyes that you don’t have to expect “crumbs” at some point. The face looks fresher in no time, the eyes more alert. For the rest of the face and to cover imperfections, the darker concealer can be a bit firmer, creamier and more covering. So far so good. But to find the right color, it is not enough to choose only between light and dark. If this does not harmonize with the natural undertone of the skin, you can forget it: the concealer looks ashy or stands out unattractively. Warmer skin types should use masking products with a yellow or orange undertone, while cooler skin types with shades of pink are better advised. But how do you recognize your own skin undertone? Take a look at the wrists: if the veins show through bluish / purple, the complexion is rather cool. If they look green, it is a warm undertone. But there are also neutral types that can wear all colors. Their veins shimmer blue-green. Chosen correctly, the concealer will blend seamlessly with the skin. It’s Prime(r) Time Just as a painter primes his canvas, the face must also be prepared for the “application of paint”.… weiterlesen

Muscle Training without Effort

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I’m not lazy when it comes to sports. I work out in the gym regularly. With a lot of fun, but not excessive. I also do a yoga class every day. For more defined muscles, especially on the stomach, I would have to put in even more effort. Firstly, I don’t have the time and, secondly, not the desire. That’s why I decided to try a new, non-invasive device for building muscle. It promises little expenditure of time and great effect. A 20-30 minute treatment with the Cynosure “StimSure” machine is said to be as effective as 800 sit-ups. Sounds tempting. It is a muscle stimulation technology in which – unlike EMS – no bioelectrical impulses flow. It is based on an electromagnetic field that keeps the muscles tense. This is called “maximal tetanic contraction”. Means that the muscle can no longer relax, but remains in constant tension. As a result, the frequencies of the individual muscle contractions merge and you don’t feel these individual twitches as with EMS. Relax while your muscles works My first appointment at the Haut- und Laserzentrum in Munich: I stay fully dressed, only the stomach area has to be free. A wide, white elastic bandage is put on a little below the waist. Feels tight, but not more uncomfortable than Spanx. The therapist tells me to lie on my back on the massage table. Then she places a paddle on the right and left under the bandage on my stomach, which are supposed to send the electromagnetic field to the muscles. The round devices are about a bit more than the size of a palm and just fit the middle of my body in pairs. You can choose to work with one or both of them. Depending on whether you want more six packs or a more defined center line. “It’s best to make a change in each session,” the practitioner explains to me when I ask her what is better. Muscle aches included Then the machine is switched on. It starts at an output of 15 percent and is slowly ramped up. I do not perceive the action potential that is triggered in the motor neurons of the body muscles as unpleasant and will soon be at the maximum power of 100 percent. The noise that the machine makes is unusual: 10 seconds of stapling like shock waves, 10 seconds of the buzzing sound of a sewing machine.… weiterlesen

Tested for you: „Body Cream“ by Dr. Jetske Ultee

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In the Netherlands, the brand has long been synonymous with high-quality skin care. Behind it is a doctor from Rotterdam, Dr. Jetske Ultee. Another doctor brand, you might say. Yes, but this medical doctor is a research doctor in cosmetic dermatology. In 2009 she started to share her knowledge on her skincare blog and in 2010 introduced her skin care and make-up line Dr. Jetske Ultee. Why did I choose something as unspectacular as a body cream to test out from your comprehensive line?Because it is finally an honest body cream that does not claim to firm up slack tissue, tighten the skin and smooth cellulite – which never works anyway. I also have to agree with Dr. Ultee, who says, “Finding a good body care product with really effective ingredients is quite difficult.“ Simply cream away dry skin And indeed, the body cream is rich, but neither greasy nor sticky. It is unscented, so it smells pleasantly neutral and does not bother you when you apply perfume over it. What I like most is that it keeps my dry skin, especially on my lower legs, smooth all day and prevents flakes from forming. This is due to a high concentration of the liquorice root extract. There is also niacinamide (vitamin B3), one of Dr. Ultees favorite substance, which is also included in her facial care. It not only protects the skin against moisture loss by strengthening the barrier function, but also against damage caused by UV radiation. I use it for the whole body and preferably after showering on the slightly damp and warm skin, because then it has the most lasting effect. And not to forget the price / performance ratio is right too! „Body Cream“ by Dr. Jetske Ultee, 500 ml, ca. 34 Euro… weiterlesen

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