Inspirations
ORIENTANA HELP 2021
At Orientana, we have our own value system, which includes not only shaping ecological attitudes, but also helping those in need. We are eager to engage in charity events because we feel the need - both as a company and individually, our employees do it. We will tell you what the most important projects in this area we have implemented in 2021! Already in January, like every year, together with the Independent Students' Association of the Warsaw School of Economics, we supported the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity by donating cosmetic sets for auction. In the spring, we donated thousands of hand creams to medics whose hands were in dire need of support. Disinfectants used dozens of times a day unfortunately dry out the skin. After a similar campaign in 2020 – at the beginning of the pandemic – we knew that our Snail Slime Hand Cream was great at regenerating even the most irritated and dry skin of doctors and nurses. On the occasion of Children's Day, we organized a campaign to collect likes on our social media. Our post was liked by 11,064 people and we transferred this amount in złoty to the account of the Mała Polska w Nepalu foundation. The foundation helps rebuild destroyed schools, finances children's education and treatment. We are glad that we could help! The last week of vacation was marked by our four-legged friends. We donated 10% of the income from your orders to the Westy do Adopcji Foundation . If you are considering adoption or would like to support animals, we cordially invite you to this foundation! The time before Christmas is a period in which we encouraged you to buy our special Advent Calendar. This is an original project, from which the entire income was received by us by the Adra Foundation . The windows in the Calendar contained information about the specific help that is provided to children and a specially selected quote for each day of December. The Adra Polska Foundation is a branch of an international organization that deals with helping those in need from all over the world. The income from our Calendar was allocated to children from a school in Tongi, Bangladesh.
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NEW IN ORIENTANA 2021
2021 was a special year for us. Orientan's offer has expanded by 12 new natural cosmetics! We pack all new products in ecological packaging - glass, paper or recycled plastic and wherever possible we try to avoid additional paper boxes. This is a big challenge, because at the same time we are changing the graphic design and packaging of the best-selling cosmetics you already know - you have certainly noticed it in drugstores. But let's move on to the SUMMARY OF NEW PRODUCTS 2021! Already in March , Clay Masks appeared in a completely new version. We packed a portion of the mask prepared for a single application in a paper sachet in the spirit of zero-waste. The masks still come in three of your favorite variants: Almond and Saffron, Ginger and Lemongrass, and Neem and Tea Tree. In April, completely new natural cosmetics were launched in our offer. You loved them immediately and they gained a group of loyal fans. Do you know what I'm talking about? These are Boosters with Reishi mushroom. We created them in two versions - Brightening Booster for the day with Reishi and Rhodiola Rosea and Regenerating Booster for the night with Reishi and Purple Rice. Back in June, we welcomed the Moisturizing Face Wash Foam in a new version. We managed to create a formula that allows you to obtain a very thick and stable, but at the same time light and velvety foam. And all this while maintaining a very high level of product naturalness - 97.3%. After the summer break, it's time to premiere the multifunctional Indian Jasmine Body, Face and Hair Butter . It's a 100% natural cosmetic created strictly according to the original Ayurvedic recipe. Due to the multitude of applications and glass packaging, it's a cosmetic that fully reflects the zero waste idea that guides us in creating new products. In October, we presented the new Golden Orange Face and Eye Makeup Remover Oil . The glass bottle with a practical dispenser contains a natural cosmetic that will perfectly remove any make-up. The titular Golden Orange, or kumquat, is a fruit that is rarely found in cosmetics. Thanks to its care and micro-exfoliating properties, a natural make-up remover oil was created that definitely stands out on the market. But that wasn't the only new natural cosmetic that we expanded our portfolio with in October. Right after the oil, two natural body butters were launched. Sealed in glass jars, vividly colored and with a light consistency, they immediately found themselves among your favorites for body care. Especially since we have fans of Japanese Rose and Lemongrass among you, and these are the variants of the new velvety butters. And that wasn't all in October! This month we also revealed our project aimed specifically at men. After many questions from you and in response to your requests, the first two natural cosmetics for men in the history of the brand were created: Bamboo and Tulsi Aftershave Balm and Bamboo and Ginseng Anti-Wrinkle Face Cream . The men's line has met with great interest, especially since there are few cosmetics for men on the market with such good and natural ingredients. Are you curious what new you will find in Orientana in 2022? Hmm… We can't reveal, but believe us it will be a big WOW ?
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How to choose a natural face cream?
How to choose a natural face cream? The needs of each of us's skin change with age, season, hormonal fluctuations or depending on the care we use. A cream that worked well on our skin two or three years ago may no longer perform its function so well. It is a myth that the skin gets used to the cream and over time it stops working, but the fact is that our skin may have completely different needs and therefore the previous cream should be replaced with a new one. Criteria for selecting a natural skin cream Ideally, you should seek professional advice from a beautician or cosmetologist who will be able to examine your skin thoroughly and determine its needs. A dermatologist at a drugstore can often be helpful. However, if for various reasons you cannot use such advice, you need to do some “reconnaissance” yourself, i.e. determine your skin type. It is worth remembering that in addition to the traditional division into: dry skin normal skin combination skin oily skin we also have other aspects that are important in choosing care. You need to take into account: age tendency to form discolorations hyperreactivity (i.e. sensitivity) of the skin tendency to allergic reactions. The care of oily, sensitive and mature skin will look different than that of oily skin prone to discoloration in a younger person. A natural face cream is selected in terms of skin type in a similar way to a cream that does not contain natural ingredients. What ingredients are best in a natural face cream? There are natural face creams available on the market that contain herbs or flowers known to us from Polish nature, but also exotic-sounding plants. Sometimes it is difficult to find your way among so many different ingredients. Especially if the creams have a similar percentage of natural ingredients and price. At Orientana, all creams were created based on thoroughly tested Asian plants, many of which function in traditional Asian medicine. Tasks of a natural face cream A natural face cream will fulfill different functions during the day and in the evening. The cream we use during the day has primarily: moisturize, nourish and brighten the complexion like Reishi and Rhodiola Rosea Brightening Booster protect your skin from wind, sun and frost like Rich Turmeric Cream protect against the adverse effects of other external factors like Kali Musli Day Face Cream be a perfect base for makeup if we use it like Indian Ginseng Face Cream A natural night cream should have strongly nourishing and regenerating functions for the skin, as well as a dedicated action most needed for a given problem that the skin is struggling with. For example, natural night cream: for problematic skin it should have anti-inflammatory effects like Sandalwood and Turmeric Face Cream for sensitive skin - strongly regenerating effect such as Rich Cream with Saffron or Kali Musli Night Face Treatment for skin with discolorations - brightening and evening out the color like Mulberry and Licorice Face Cream for wrinkled skin - strong anti-aging properties Natural Vegan Reishi Night Face Cream
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Post-COVID hair loss
After Covid-19, over 30% of people struggle with increased hair loss. Symptoms most often appear 2-3 months after the first symptoms of infection and affect both hospitalized and asymptomatic people. There are many reasons for this phenomenon. Doctors most often explain this phenomenon with a weakening of the body, stress, as well as taking certain medications and staying in the hospital. Additionally, patients are often accompanied by a lack of appetite, fatigue and weakness. Excessive hair loss, what now? It is worth taking action on multiple levels, then the results will be more visible. Let's start with the most common cause of excessive hair loss - a deficiency of micro and macro elements. Supplementation of deficiencies – it is worth doing blood tests before implementing it and supplementing only the deficiencies. Instead of swallowing any hair supplement, it is worth introducing products with a higher content of zinc, iron, copper or vitamins into the diet. There are many alternatives to tablets. Blood tests – hormones also have a huge impact on the condition of hair, it is worth checking their levels to rule out whether an infection is the only cause of hair loss. Thyroid hormones have a huge impact on the condition of hair, and when testing for deficiencies, it is also worth checking this parameter. Stimulating hair growth – unfortunately we have no influence on the hair that has already fallen out, but we can fill its place with new baby hair and strengthen it. This is a process that takes a few weeks, but you can definitely see good results. visit to a specialist / trichologist / cosmetologist - if the problem lasts very long, it is very possible that the cause of hair loss is more complex. Therefore, it is worth consulting a specialist who will rule out other causes. How to effectively stimulate hair growth? Start with a regular scalp massage, stimulating the skin's microcirculation will make the hair bulbs better oxygenated and nourished. Thanks to this, the cells that are directly responsible for hair creation receive more nutrients and are able to produce better quality hair. You can do a thorough scalp massage, for example, during your daily hair wash or watching your favorite series. To make the massage more effective, it is worth introducing active ingredients into it, which will additionally affect the condition of the scalp and hair. An irreplaceable cosmetic for hair loss is the Ayurvedic hair therapy with Asian pennywort . It contains oils and herbal extracts selected according to Ayurvedic specialists. When choosing the perfect mixture of herbs, their choice, as well as the proportions and type of raw material are extremely important. Herbs in Ayurveda must work synergistically, then we get the best effect and a burst of baby hair. Apply the oil to your scalp for a few hours, then wash your hair. The best effect is achieved by leaving the treatment overnight, then the treatment will have more time to absorb and work. The rubbing of oils can be further enhanced by applying an Ayurvedic hair tonic before applying the oil as an additional growth booster. Fenugreek extract strengthens and moisturizes the scalp. The tonic can also be applied on its own, on days when we do not apply oils. The tonic contains only plant extracts, has a light, oil-free formula and does not weigh down the hair, but rather refreshes it. Regularity is key to fast results, so it is best to use the therapy before every wash, preferably at least twice a week. When will the effects be seen? Something we are all waiting for, namely a lush mane, baby hair and increased volume. Unfortunately, hair grows quite slowly and we can only slightly speed up this process. In a month, hair grows about 1 to 2 cm. After a few weeks, we can see visible effects of thickening and a burst of new hair.
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Acne or not acne?
I have acne, what next? Dermatological treatment is often necessary, especially when symptoms are very severe. It is also worth remembering that proper care can also improve a lot, and even speed up treatment, eliminate dryness caused by medications, affect sebum secretion or the formation of post-inflammatory discolorations and scars. How do I choose care that is right for my skin? It is best to use the help of a beautician, who will help you systematize your care and develop good habits. You can use our chat on the website, there is often a possibility of a free consultation and selection of care products. How to deal with acne skin? Gently. Acne skin is often very sensitive, it has a disturbed protective layer of the skin, i.e. the hydrolipid coat. Additionally, topical preparations prescribed by a dermatologist often intensify this problem. How to deal with this? Dry your face gently, do not rub the skin with cotton pads or a towel. I often suggest taking pictures of your skin, preferably in the morning, and writing down how you assess the progress of your treatment, how you feel. This makes it easier for us to determine what our skin requires at a given time. More hydration, more protective ingredients, brightening effect or soothing irritation. However, in order not to get lost in this stream of information, it is worth establishing an action plan and maintaining regularity in it. Here are some tips on what to use and in what order. Your morning routine should look like this: 1. Cleansing: This is a care stage that cannot be skipped, it is a kind of foundation of care. It is important to use mild cleansing substances, a good tip is to be able to read the composition, if we find Sodium Laureth Sulfate, SLES or ALS in the composition, it is worth choosing something else and using this product to wash your body. Do not throw away products just because they did not work for you, use them in a different way, e.g. for washing makeup brushes or give them to someone else, maybe they will like it. A good and mild cleansing product should leave the skin clean, without a greasy layer and a feeling of tightness.My suggestion: Kantola Gentle Cleansing Foam. 2. Toning: Tonic what? Yes, tonic, and why, and why? For your hydrolipid barrier, or to put it simply, to restore the skin's optimal pH, soothe and create a base for subsequent products. Apply serum to slightly damp tonic and see how quickly it absorbs. Apply cream to slightly damp serum using this method. What tonic does acne skin need? Without alcohol, which irritates and should not be present in tonic, with an atomizer so as not to rub the skin with a cotton pad. An additional advantage is its high content of plant extracts and hydrolates. My suggestion: Neem and citron facial tonic. 3. Moisturizing: This is seemingly the easiest stage of care. What is difficult in applying a cream? Choosing it. More and more moisturizing products on the market. Anti-smog, antioxidant, anti-acne, what is it about, what does it mean? Choose a light but not gel cream with a soothing, anti-inflammatory effect. My suggestion: Mulberry Licorice Cream. 4. Protection: There are two meanings hidden under this word. Protection against drying, it can be an oil that will make less water evaporate from the epidermis. However, sun protection should also be included in this point. Makeup also has a protective function in a sense. My suggestion: A few drops of sandalwood and turmeric oil. We already have a systematized morning care. Now it's time for the evening one. In some points the rules will be the same. However, the most important points are cleansing and regeneration. 1.Make-up removal and cleansing : inseparable duo if you do makeup, and if not, you can repeat the cleansing from the morning ritual. Makeup removal must be done twice as thoroughly as the makeup was done. That is why it is worth using oil products that will completely dissolve foundation, mascara, long-lasting lipstick and remnants of care. Once the entire face and neck are thoroughly covered, massage the skin for at least another minute, then you can move on to a foam or a mild gel that will thoroughly emulsify the oil. The skin is clean, soft and perfectly prepared for relaxation. My suggestion: The irreplaceable duo of golden orange oil and Kantola foam. 2. Toning: at this stage, not much changes. After each contact with tap water, it is worth restoring the skin's natural pH. We generously spray the face with tonic, wait for it to absorb a little and then apply the next care stages to damp skin. 3. Serum/ spot serum and/or medication from a dermatologist. – apply the serum to damp facial skin. It is good to use an anti-inflammatory product, selected for the current condition of the skin. My suggestion: neem and tulsi serum. 4. Moisturizing/regenerating – a very moisturizing product that will give the skin time to regenerate, soothe irritations. The skin should be brightened, soft and moisturized after the night. It is time to rebuild the hydrolipid barrier. At this stage, we can apply our favorite rich cream or cream and oil. My suggestion: snail slime cream or rich turmeric cream. Cosmetic tips: - do not touch your face during the day. There is not much to explain here. - disinfect your phone regularly or talk through headphones. Pay special attention to this point if inflammatory changes appear in the cheeks or occur more often on one side. - observe your body. Take notes or photos of your skin and monitor its condition. If your complexion looks worse, look for the cause, it may be increased stress, a change in diet, not drinking enough water or hormonal fluctuations in the cycle. This will help you better understand what affects the condition of your skin the most. - read the ingredients, choose consciously. You already know what to do, now gradually implement it into your life! Acne skin is very capricious and does not like many changes at once. Gradually change your habits and skin care. We do not encourage you to throw away cosmetics that have not worked, give them to someone else or use them in another way, e.g. face cream as body cream.
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Cosmetics for the summer - what to pack in your holiday cosmetic bag (guide)
Summer is a time when we particularly care for our skin and body. Warm days, intense sun, swimming in the sea or pool – all of this means that our skin and hair need slightly different care than in winter or autumn. We change our wardrobe to lighter clothes, spend more time outdoors, and expose our bodies to the sun more often, which is why the cosmetics we use in summer should be light, effective, and well-suited to seasonal needs. How to choose cosmetics for summer? First and foremost, pay attention to their moisturizing and protective properties. In summer, it's worth opting for products that don't weigh down the skin, absorb quickly, and support its regeneration after sun exposure. Sun protection is also important, as is proper hair care, as hair is also exposed to UV rays, chlorine, and salt water. In this post, we'll advise you on how to create the perfect summer cosmetic bag, what it shouldn't lack, and how to avoid the most common skincare mistakes during the summer. How to care for your skin in summer? In summer, skin requires special attention – it is intensely exposed to sunlight, high temperatures, and frequent changes in humidity. All of this can lead to dryness, irritation, and even premature aging. Therefore, it is worth taking comprehensive care of it – both internally and externally. Hydration is key! Proper hydration of the body is one of the most important elements of summer skin care. Drinking water supports regenerative processes, improves skin elasticity, and protects it from excessive dryness. On hot days, it's worth drinking even more than the recommended 2 liters daily – the body loses fluids faster, and this directly affects the condition of the complexion. Equally important is the use of cosmetics with a light, moisturizing formula that do not weigh down the skin but effectively provide it with moisture. Creams, serums, mists, or gels based on aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or hydrolats are an excellent choice for summer – they bring relief and protect against dryness caused by sun or air conditioning. Rules for safe tanning The summer sun can be deceptive, so it's important to follow basic sun protection rules. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours, i.e., between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when UV radiation is strongest. When leaving home, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with a UV filter, which protect not only your eyes but also the delicate skin around them. Don't forget about sunscreen with SPF 20+ or higher – this is an absolute must-have for any summer skincare routine. The cream should be applied about 20 minutes before going out in the sun, and then reapplied every 2-3 hours and after every swim. Regular application is key to effective protection and avoiding sunburn, discoloration, or premature skin aging. Diet matters In summer, it is also worth paying attention to a healthy, light, and antioxidant-rich diet that supports the skin from within. Products rich in vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, and zinc support natural sun protection and improve skin regeneration. Reach for fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., carrots, tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon), nuts, seeds, and fish. Limiting alcohol and sugar intake is also important – these ingredients can lead to dehydration and worsen the appearance of the skin. A balanced diet and adequate hydration work synergistically with cosmetics, giving the skin a healthy, summer glow. Face cosmetics for summer – what to have? In summer, facial skin particularly feels the effects of sun, wind, and high temperatures. It needs light, yet effective care: hydration, soothing, and protection. Below you will find proven cosmetic suggestions worth incorporating into your daily routine. Light texture and strong hydration In summer, it is definitely worth avoiding heavy, greasy formulas that can clog pores and intensify the feeling of staleness on the face. Light, water-based cosmetics that absorb quickly and do not pill under SPF sunscreen work best. Orientana serum ampoules – light formula, powerful action Natural serum ampoules from Orientana are four concentrated formulas addressing the most common skin needs: hydration, hyperpigmentation, skin regeneration, and prevention of elasticity loss. Each has a light, water-based consistency, making it perfect under SPF sunscreen – it doesn't pill, doesn't clog pores, and effectively cares for the skin. A true hydration bomb is the Serum Ampoule with Trehalose and Hyaluronic Acid (HA) – ideal for hot weather when the skin needs deep hydration and refreshment. Snail Slime Essence – evening regeneration Snail Slime Facial Essence is a product that perfectly complements the summer skincare routine – especially in the evening. It has soothing, calming, regenerating, and firming properties. Snail slime is a well-known ingredient in Asian skincare, valued for its ability to accelerate epidermal renewal and deeply moisturize. It works best when applied at night, when the skin intensely regenerates. Hello Papaya Cream – light and energizing Energizing Hello Papaya Face Cream with Vitamin C is an ideal proposition for daytime use. Its light consistency absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue, and works perfectly with UV filter cream. Vitamin C brightens, adds radiance, and supports sun protection, while papaya gently exfoliates and smoothes. Focus on Vitamin C Vitamin C is an ingredient that should definitely be in your skincare routine in summer. First, it enhances the effect of SPF filters by neutralizing free radicals formed under the influence of UV rays. This means an additional protective shield against photoaging and loss of elasticity. Secondly, vitamin C has brightening and illuminating properties – it evens out skin tone, reduces the visibility of discoloration, and gives the complexion a healthy glow, which is particularly desirable in summer. Orientana offers an entire line of cosmetics with Vitamin C that are perfect for summer. This includes not only Hello Papaya cream but also other products from the same line – all with light formulas and effective antioxidant action. Here is the blog section as per your plan: Beautiful body in summer – what to use? In summer, we gladly reveal more of our bodies, so it's worth making sure the skin is not only smooth and soft, but also well-nourished, moisturized, and glowing. Sun rays, sea salt, or chlorinated water can lead to dryness and roughness, so summer body care should focus on regeneration and protection. One of the best ways to provide skin comfort is with properly selected body oils and butters. Body oils and butters In summer, it is worth choosing body care cosmetics rich in natural vegetable oils, butters, and extracts that provide the skin with valuable nutrients, support its protective barrier, and prevent excessive water loss. Body oils have a light, pleasant consistency and absorb quickly, leaving the skin soft and elastic, without a sticky feeling. Enriched with vitamins and antioxidants, they have moisturizing, regenerating, and soothing effects, and their subtle scent also has a relaxing effect – ideal after a sunny day. Body butters, although thicker, are perfect after sunbathing or in the evening, when the skin needs intensive nourishment. It is especially worth paying attention to shea, cocoa, or mango butter – they are extremely rich in lipids, vitamins, and antioxidants that effectively soothe irritations, aid healing, and restore skin softness. Such products are ideal after sunbathing – they help regenerate the skin, alleviate any irritations, and maintain a tan for longer. It is worth applying them to slightly damp skin after bathing – they will absorb better and retain moisture in the epidermis. Here is the blog section as per your plan: Hair care in summer – how to protect it from sun and water? In summer, hair is exposed to many harmful factors – intense UV radiation, sea salt, chlorinated water, as well as more frequent washing and dryness caused by high temperatures. All of this makes them brittle, dull, frizzy, and lose their shine. However, proper care can effectively prevent this. Protection and regeneration with oils One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect hair in summer is oiling. Orientana Ayurvedic hair oils are particularly well-suited for this purpose, as they are based on traditional Indian recipes rich in plant extracts and natural oils. Oil acts as a protective barrier – it creates a thin layer around the hair, which protects it from moisture loss, sun damage, and harmful substances contained in sea and pool water. Interestingly, studies show that coconut oil and other saturated oils can penetrate the hair shaft, strengthening its structure from within and reducing the risk of mechanical damage and protein loss. How to use oil in summer? It is best to apply a few drops of oil to the length of the hair before going to the beach or pool – it will not only protect the hair but also give it a healthy appearance. In the evening, it is worth performing a more intensive treatment – apply oil to the hair for 1-2 hours (or overnight), then wash it with a delicate shampoo. Conditioners and masks – regeneration after sun exposure After a day in the sun, hair needs regeneration. Masks and conditioners rich in emollients, proteins, and humectants work great here, restoring hair elasticity and preventing brittleness. Orientana Trycho Regeneration Conditioner-Mask contains a rich formula with lychee extract, camellia oil (tsubaki), safflower oil, mango butter, and pracaxi oil, as well as the FiberHance™ BM Solution complex and extracts of eclipta prostrata and ginger. This composition provides comprehensive action: Silk proteins and keratin strengthen the hair structure and rebuild disulfide bonds. Humectants (e.g., glycerin, panthenol) retain moisture and prevent dryness. Emollients smooth the hair cuticles, facilitate detangling, and protect against harmful factors, including UV and high styling temperatures. Lychee and ginger extracts have regenerating effects and stimulate circulation in the scalp. In summer, it is worth using it 2-3 times a week as a mask (for 15-20 minutes) or daily as a conditioner (1-2 minutes) – hair becomes soft, shiny, and stronger. Of course – here is the blog section as outlined: Alcohol-free mists – protection and refreshment In summer, when the temperature rises and skin and hair dry out faster, it's good to always have something on hand that brings immediate relief and refreshment. Alcohol-free mists are one of the simplest, yet most versatile summer cosmetics – ideal for both hair and body. Mists refresh, moisturize, bring relief, and have an aromatherapy effect – they improve mood and relax. They are especially useful when traveling, at the beach, at work, or after a workout. Thanks to their light formula, they can be used several times a day, including on facial skin. Why choose alcohol-free mists? Unlike many classic products, Orientana mists do not contain alcohol, which could dry out the skin and hair. Instead, they contain moisturizing ingredients that nourish the skin and hair even on the hottest days. Mists have subtle, natural scents that not only refresh but also improve mood, providing a feeling of freshness and lightness throughout the day. For body and hair – multifunctional care You can use mists: on the body – to quickly refresh, moisturize the skin, and enjoy a pleasant scent, on the hair – to give it softness, protect it from drying out, and neutralize the smell of chlorine or sea salt, See all available versions on the Orientana hair and body mists website – you will find a variety of scents and functional options, perfect for your handbag, beach bag, or carry-on luggage. What mistakes to avoid in summer? Summer is a time for relaxation, vacation trips, and outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it's also a time when it's easy to make skincare and health mistakes that can affect the condition of your skin, hair, and well-being. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid so you can truly enjoy summer – healthily and consciously. Cosmetic and health traps Lack of sun protection One of the biggest mistakes is neglecting to use SPF sunscreens. Skin exposed to UV radiation without protection not only burns more easily but also ages faster. This can lead to discoloration, loss of firmness, and the formation of wrinkles. Remember to apply SPF 20 or higher every day – not just at the beach! Excessive sun exposure While tanned skin looks attractive, spending too much time in the sun – especially between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM – is a simple recipe for dehydration, overheating, and even heatstroke. Try to stay in the shade, wear light, long-sleeved clothing, and don't forget headwear, such as a hat or scarf. Not enough water On hot days, the body loses water much faster, which is why regular drinking is so important. Dehydration affects not only overall well-being but also the appearance of the skin – it becomes dull, dry, and less elastic. Water is the simplest and most effective cosmetic from within! Too heavy cosmetics In summer, skin needs lightness – thick, greasy creams can clog pores and worsen the problem of oily skin. It is worth choosing cosmetics with a gel, water, or emulsion consistency that absorb quickly and allow the skin to breathe. Skipping post-sun care Many people focus solely on sun protection, forgetting that the skin also needs regeneration. After a day at the beach or a walk in the sun, it's worth reaching for moisturizing after-sun products, hair masks, and oils that will soothe the effects of UV radiation and restore balance. In summary: conscious summer care is not just a matter of beauty, but of health. Avoiding these mistakes allows you to enjoy your vacation better and take care of yourself without unpleasant surprises. Summer cosmetics are a must-have in every cosmetic bag – especially when we want to feel good in our skin and enjoy our vacation without unpleasant surprises. Light, effective, and multi-purpose formulas not only protect skin and hair from sun, wind, and water but also make daily care simpler, faster, and more comfortable – even when traveling. By choosing products based on natural ingredients, you take conscious and skin-friendly care of yourself. Check out Orientana's offer – you'll find cosmetics created with summer needs in mind that will take care of your skin, hair, and well-being throughout your vacation.
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Gomasio - salt from Japan close to Ayurveda
In the kitchen, as in life, I am inspired by Asia - you have probably noticed that already :). Ayurvedic recipes are closest to me, but I also look with interest at Chinese five-transformation cuisine and macrobiotic recipes from Japan. It is amazing how much they have in common! You have certainly noticed that just as important to me as oriental flavours, the natural origin of food and its health-promoting properties are… the ease and short time of preparing dishes. I am very busy - I don't have many hours to search for exotic ingredients in stores or cook complicated dishes, although I like it very much. That is why the exotic recipes I use in my kitchen must be express, healthy and… as multifunctional as possible, because I often prepare more food in advance, to use it later on the next occasion. Nothing goes to waste in my kitchen! Just wanting to save from throwing away the stock of roasted sesame seeds that I had left after a Japanese dinner with friends, I remembered a recipe for gomasio, or sesame salt, that a friend of mine brought me from Japan. It is delicious, rich in nutrients, quick to prepare and unfortunately not very well-known in Poland. And so easy to make that I thought it was necessary to change that! After all, we all use too much salt - research shows that salt is the Poles' favourite spice, yet we should not consume more than 5 g of it per day. Unfortunately, it is also lurking in bread, cold cuts, cheeses... and yet a salt shaker stands on the table in almost every home. Let's add sesame to it and it will be much healthier. And, you will see, more delicious! First, a word about macrobiotics. This is a model of nutrition that was formalized and described in the first half of the 20th century by the Japanese George Ohsawa. It is based on the traditional Japanese way of nutrition from the Edo period and aims to balance the yin and yang energy in food, which is to serve to strengthen health and build the vital forces of the body. Macrobiotics is complicated, like Ayurveda, but in some of its assumptions it is very similar to it. Today we will take a spice from it that will work well not only in exotic dishes, but also in traditional Polish cuisine. Gomasio is sesame salt - or rather sesame with (more or less) added salt. It is salty, but also intriguingly nutty and incredibly enriches the taste of everything we add it to. Dishes we know will gain a completely new face with it! And we will gain health - not only will we consume less salt, but also more beneficial sesame. It is, for example, a rich source of zinc (almost 8 mg/100 g!) and calcium, as well as the important amino acid tyrosine. How to make this wonder? As always in my kitchen - very easy and quick! To prepare gomasio you only need sesame and salt. Their proportion is important, which should be five, six or even ten parts of sesame to one part of salt. You will work out the ideal amount for yourself, adjusting it to your taste preferences. I suggest that gomasio is delicious in any version! What's next? Toast the selected amount of sesame seeds in a dry pan for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the seeds start to crackle, jump slightly and smell wonderfully appetizing. Then pour them from the pan onto a plate to cool faster and mix with table salt. Grind everything in a blender or coffee grinder into a fine powder. Done! Of course, you can modify the recipe. The spice will also be delicious if you add a little sunflower seeds or coriander, roasted seaweed, cumin or pepper. Store it in a tightly closed jar in a dark place. And see how it tastes with products that you usually just salt!
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Weekend Breakfast? Matcha, Checkmate!
I love lazy, leisurely, long weekend breakfasts. In the company of family members or friends who are early risers, sometimes still in pajamas, and always with a large jug of coffee or an infusion of my favorite herbs. And often sweet, because after all, when, if not on the weekend, can I give myself a break and... time for pancakes and fritters, crepes and muffins? This is important even in the case of my favorite pancakes and muffins with matcha, which take me only a few moments to prepare. Because they are so delicious that sometimes you have to make another batch! I couldn't decide which of these breakfasts I like more, so today I'm showing you not one, but two recipes for sweets with Japanese powdered green tea. I don't think I need to convince anyone about its health benefits - it's known all over the world as a powerful antioxidant. It contains catechins, which have antiviral and antibacterial properties, and additionally reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and lower blood glucose levels. And it has a beautiful, light green color. It's good to start the day with it; on weekdays I greet mornings with a matcha infusion, and on weekends - I enjoy it sweetly. So let's jump out of bed and rush to the kitchen! Let's start with optimistic, green pancakes with matcha. To prepare them, you need a glass or one and a half of milk (it can be plant-based), one egg, three tablespoons of oil, a tablespoon of matcha and two glasses of flour - I mix rice and millet, but regular wheat flour will also work great, and my friend even experimented with homemade buckwheat flour, made by grinding buckwheat groats, and served the pancakes in a savory version, with smoked salmon and sour cream. In my version, you can also add sugar to taste. I mix all the pancake ingredients with a mixer until a fairly thick, uniform mass is created, heavier than in the case of pancake batter. I put it in small portions with a spoon on a dry, hot pan and fry them for a minute or two on both sides. The result is tiny, round pancakes with a sponge cake consistency, which taste best with honey, because they are not too sweet on their own (although this of course depends on the amount of sugar added!). Prefer something significantly sweeter and have a bit more time? Bake breakfast muffins with matcha. Here's a good tip: first set the oven to 200 degrees - it will take longer for it to heat up than it will for you to prepare the dough! Take three ripe bananas, two eggs, a little over half a cup of spelt flour and a little over a third of a cup of oil (like I do - all by eye!), a tablespoon of matcha, a teaspoon of baking powder and half a teaspoon of baking soda. Mash the peeled bananas with a fork and mix the eggs, oil and all the dry ingredients in a bowl. Add the banana pulp and mix it well with the dough, then transfer the finished mixture to ten or twelve muffin tins. If the oven is already preheated, put the baking tray with the tins inside and... wait 20 minutes with the morning newspaper. That's it! After fifteen minutes, it is worth checking with a stick whether the cupcakes are ready - depending on the oven and the starting temperature of the ingredients used for the dough, the baking time may be slightly shorter or longer. Matcha cupcakes taste best with fruit juice, syrup or exotic fruit jam, but also with vanilla cheese and cardamom or honey with a distinct, sharp flavor. And green tea - and in good company, of course! You have to admit: such a breakfast feast also feeds the soul. It's like cooking, but there's time for reading and chatting with loved ones - and all in a zen atmosphere. That's how it should be on the weekend!
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WHAT IS YOUR SKIN TYPE? WE DISCUSS SKIN TYPES AND THEIR SPECIFICITY!
Different skin types: MATURE SKIN Mature skin, contrary to what one might think, is not a skin type defined by an age limit. Although it is most often found in people over 45, sometimes younger people also have it. Mature skin is a skin type characterized by a visible loss of firmness, a large number of wrinkles, and a tendency to lose water. Cosmetics intended for the care of such skin focus primarily on its: hydration elasticity smoothing regeneration. ACNE-PRONE SKIN Acne-prone skin is the most problematic skin type. It is characterized by a tendency to recurring skin lesions (pimples, blackheads, etc.) and can therefore cause many troubles. Key to caring for acne-prone skin is the use of delicate, natural cosmetics with antibacterial properties that soothe inflammation and regulate sebum secretion. It is also very important to constantly cleanse such skin, as this will prevent clogging of the sebaceous glands and the formation of pimples. DRY SKIN Dry skin is very easy to recognize because it is characterized by reduced sebum secretion. As a result, it is dry, rough, tight, and dull, and additionally, it quickly loses firmness and wrinkles become visible. Therefore, dry skin needs careful care focused mainly on intensive moisturizing and preventing water loss through the epidermis, as well as stimulating regenerative processes. A good moisturizing cream is essential, but it is also worth reaching for nourishing masks and hydro treatments. COMBINATION SKIN Combination skin is usually a combination of two skin types: oily and dry. This makes it quite a challenge when it comes to care, as it tends to both excessive oiliness and dryness, and consequently – it needs cosmetics with multifaceted action. The best choice for combination skin will therefore be natural cosmetics containing ingredients such as ginger, lemongrass, or turmeric, including moisturizing creams, fine-grained peels, and moisturizing and normalizing masks. OILY SKIN Oily skin is a type of skin that can be recognized by an unnatural and unsightly shine on the face; its characteristic features also include numerous visible blackheads and enlarged pores. Natural cosmetics that normalize the activity of sebaceous glands and reduce sebum secretion work best in the care of this type of skin. In addition, oily skin also requires regular and thorough facial cleansing using enzymatic peels. SKIN WITH DISCOLORATION Skin with discoloration is characterized by uneven skin tone and the frequent appearance of unsightly spots on the face – this is the result of overproduction of pigment cells, which cause uneven distribution of pigment in the skin. Skin with discoloration is very problematic, but it can be managed with natural cosmetics with a high content of highly concentrated papaya extract. We especially recommend papaya facial wash gel and papaya bio mask-essence – they regulate melanin production and effectively whiten discoloration. SENSITIVE SKIN Sensitive skin is prone to irritation – just an inappropriate cosmetic or a sudden change in temperature, and the skin immediately becomes red and chapped. This type of skin is difficult to care for because it requires great care and gentleness, but it can be tamed by using light, natural cosmetics with a high content of valuable nutrients. They will help minimize the tendency of sensitive skin to irritation and improve its overall condition.
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