How Facial Mists Can Help

Facial mists go beyond a refreshing spritz—they’re a versatile skincare staple that can transform how your skin looks and feels. Here’s why they’re a winter essential:

1. Instant Hydration

When your skin starts to feel parched, a facial mist delivers an immediate surge of moisture. This is especially useful on cold, dry days or when you’re on the go.

2. Replenishes Dry, Flaky Skin

Dryness and flakiness are common in winter, but hydrating facial mists can help restore your skin’s moisture levels. They work wonders when layered with other products to lock in hydration and keep skin smooth and supple.

3. Comforts Reactive, Sensitive Skin

Winter skin often becomes more reactive, but a soothing facial mist—like our Neroli Hydrasoothe Treatment Mist—can help calm redness and irritation. Ingredients such as neroli, aloe vera, and chamomile provide instant relief for angry, stressed skin.

4. Refreshes Makeup

Makeup tends to crack and settle into dry patches when skin is dehydrated. A quick spritz of facial mist not only revives your makeup but also enhances its longevity, leaving you with a dewy, fresh-faced look.

5. Preps Skin for Maximum Absorption

Hydrating mists help prepare your skin to absorb serums, essences, and moisturizers more effectively. Applying mist before these steps creates a hydrated base, ensuring your products penetrate more deeply for optimal results.

For the ultimate winter skincare indulgence, try layering our Neroli Hydrasoothe Treatment Mist with Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence and The Alpine Phytonutrient Serum or Purist Delicate Skin Serum. Together, these products create a comforting ritual designed to restore balance, vitality, and radiance to winter-stressed skin.

Crafting a Holistic Winter Skincare Ritual

To keep your skin healthy and luminous all winter, adopt this easy yet luxurious routine:

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Start with a gentle, hydrating oil cleanser to remove impurities without stripping the skin. Choose a formula that nourishes while maintaining your skin’s natural oils.

Step 2: First Mist

Spritz your face with Neroli Hydrasoothe Treatment Mist. This step balances your skin’s pH, refreshes, and preps it for the next steps in your skincare routine.

Step 3: Essence

Apply Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence to brighten, firm, and deeply hydrate your skin. An essence provides a layer of nourishment that enhances the benefits of subsequent products.

Step 4: Serum

Massage a few drops of The Alpine Phytonutrient Serum or Purist Delicate Skin Serum into your skin. These serums address specific concerns such as dryness, fine lines, and dullness while delivering long-lasting hydration.

Step 5: Final Mist

Seal in all the benefits with another spritz of facial mist. This final step helps set your makeup, lock in hydration, and protect your skin throughout the day.

PRO TIP: Look for facial mists containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and fresh botanical extracts like aspen bark. These ingredients work together to nourish, soothe, and refresh your skin.

What to Look for in a Winter Facial Mist

Not all facial mists are created equal. When selecting one, look for key ingredients that address hydration, soothing, and nourishment:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A hydration powerhouse that attracts and retains moisture.
• Aloe Vera: Calms and soothes irritation while providing lightweight hydration.
• Botanical Extracts: Ingredients like neroli, chamomile, or aspen bark provide antioxidant benefits and help reduce redness and sensitivity. 

As our skin evolves over time, it requires tailored care focused on hydration, firmness, and protection from environmental stressors.

Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence addresses these needs by serving as a multi-functional skincare product that replaces multiple items in a routine, making it ideal for anyone seeking simplicity without compromising on effectiveness.

Let’s dive into each benefit and explore how Aspen Dew meets your skin’s needs with powerful ingredients and thoughtful formulations. Plus, discover additional tips for enhancing your overall skin health.

1. Facial Toner: Prep and Balance Skin pH

• Why Toners Matter: Toners play a key role in balancing the skin’s pH after cleansing, which can be disrupted by tap water and harsh cleansers. A balanced pH is essential for skin resilience and moisture retention.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Aloe vera is rich in polysaccharides that soothe and hydrate, while rose oil offers mild antibacterial properties and a refreshing effect.
• Pro Tip: For best results, apply Aspen Dew on slightly damp skin to lock in additional moisture. This enhances the absorption of the following ingredients and preps your skin for hydration.
• Lifestyle Tip: Consider reducing the number of cleansing steps to prevent over-stripping natural oils. Gentle, non-foaming cleansers or oil cleansers are especially beneficial for mature skin.

2. Retinol Alternative: Gentle Cell Renewal

• Why Retinol Alternatives are Important: Retinoids promote cell turnover, helping improve texture and tone. However, they can sometimes cause dryness and sensitivity, particularly in skin that’s prone to dryness.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Dew bean extract is a plant-based retinol alternative that supports smooth, fresh-looking skin without irritation.
• Pro Tip: Incorporate Aspen Dew into your nighttime routine to take advantage of your skin’s natural repair cycle, allowing dew bean to work effectively while you sleep.
• Lifestyle Tip: Nourish your skin from the inside out by eating foods rich in Vitamin A and beta-carotene, like sweet potatoes and carrots, to support healthy skin renewal.

3. Wrinkle Cream: Support Firmness & Reduce Fine Lines

• Why Supporting Firmness is Essential: As skin changes over time, it may lose its natural elasticity, which makes ingredients that support firmness a key part of maintaining skin health.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Edelweiss extract is rich in antioxidants that promote elasticity and smoothness by supporting collagen, fortifying the skin’s natural structure.
• Pro Tip: Pair Aspen Dew with a gentle facial massage to boost circulation and encourage deeper penetration of edelweiss into the skin. Use upward motions to help lift and firm.
• Lifestyle Tip: Adding collagen-boosting foods like bone broth to your diet can support skin's elasticity, helping it retain a more lifted appearance.

4. Antioxidant Cream: Protect Against Environmental Stressors

• Why Antioxidants are Crucial: Environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays can accelerate visible skin changes by generating free radicals. Antioxidants neutralize these harmful molecules, helping to prevent damage.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Superoxide dismutase is a powerful enzyme that breaks down free radicals, while edelweiss offers extended protection against oxidative stress.
• Pro Tip: Apply Aspen Dew in the morning to ensure antioxidant protection throughout the day. Follow with SPF 30+ to maximize defense against the elements.
• Lifestyle Tip: Consider an antioxidant-rich diet by incorporating berries, green tea, and dark chocolate to support skin health from within.

5. Vitamin C Serum: Reduce Dark Spots & Hyperpigmentation

• Why Vitamin C is Essential: Dark spots and uneven skin tone often develop due to sun exposure and slower cell turnover. A brightening vitamin C serum helps create a more even, glowing complexion.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Bearberry extract is a natural source of vitamin C and arbutin, both which works to fade hyperpigmentation without the risks associated with harsher alternatives. 
• Pro Tip: Consistency is key! Apply Aspen Dew twice daily to allow bearberry extract to work gradually, reducing dark spots over time.
• Lifestyle Tip: Supplement your routine with Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits and bell peppers to naturally brighten skin from the inside out.

6. Hyaluronic Acid: Deep Hydration & Plumping

• Why Hydration is Key: Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for maintaining a hydrated, plump appearance.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Sodium hyaluronate, a smaller molecule form of hyaluronic acid, penetrates deeper to provide lasting hydration and visibly smooth fine lines.
• Pro Tip: Apply Aspen Dew on slightly damp skin, followed by a moisturizer to seal in the hyaluronic acid’s moisture-boosting benefits.
• Lifestyle Tip: Stay hydrated throughout the day by aiming for at least 8 glasses of water. Adding hydrating fruits like watermelon and cucumbers to your diet can also benefit your skin.

7. Niacinamide Serum: Enhance Barrier Function & Even Skin Tone

• Why Niacinamide is Essential: Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, strengthens the skin barrier, reducing dullness, redness, and visible signs of environmental stress.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Niacinamide in Aspen Dew promotes elasticity and supports ceramide production, improving moisture retention and tone.
• Pro Tip: Use Aspen Dew daily to reap the cumulative benefits of niacinamide, helping to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and uneven tone.
• Lifestyle Tip: Add niacinamide-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and whole grains to your diet to support your skin’s barrier function from within.

8. Facial Mist: Refresh & Hydrate Skin 

• Why Mists are Beneficial: Mists provide quick hydration boosts and help lock in the benefits of other products when layered.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Phytoceramides help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, while aloe vera and sodium hyaluronate keep skin soft and refreshed.
• Pro Tip: Use Aspen Dew throughout the day to replenish moisture, especially in dry environments or after sun exposure to cool skin.
• Lifestyle Tip: Keep a facial mist at your desk or carry it with you to rehydrate skin on the go, which is especially helpful in dry indoor spaces like office buildings and in airplane cabins.

9. Ceramide Serum: Strengthen & Restore Skin Barrier Health

• Why Ceramides are Important: Ceramides are lipids that occur naturally in the skin barrier, crucial for retaining moisture and protecting against environmental damage.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Glycosphingolipids, or plant-derived ceramides, enhance resilience and moisture retention, fortifying the skin barrier.
• Pro Tip: For optimal barrier protection, apply Aspen Dew as the first layer of hydration, followed by an oil serum to reinforce the barrier and lock in moisture.
• Lifestyle Tip: Consuming healthy fats, like avocado and omega-3-rich fish, supports your skin’s natural lipid levels, which can help keep your skin’s barrier strong.

10. Calming Elixir: Reduce Redness

• Why Calming Ingredients are Needed: With age, skin can become more sensitive and prone to redness. Calming ingredients help soothe inflammation and provide relief.
• Ingredient Spotlight: Aspen bark extract is both anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, while aloe vera and edelweiss calm and nourish sensitive skin.
• Pro Tip: Use Aspen Dew as a post-sun treatment to cool and calm reddened skin. Apply chilled for an extra-soothing effect.
• Lifestyle Tip: Avoid extreme temperatures on your skin, like hot water or direct sun exposure. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and ginger to calm your skin from the inside out.

Streamline Your Routine with Aspen Dew

Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence is more than just a single skincare product— it’s a  10-in-1 facial treatment, designed to nourish, protect, and revitalize your skin.

By incorporating Aspen Dew into your daily routine, you’re not only saving time but also ensuring that your skin receives comprehensive care to stay resilient, radiant, and healthy.

For those looking to simplify their skincare regimen while maintaining a luminous, refreshed appearance, Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence offers a convenient, powerful alternative that delivers exceptional results in a single bottle.

Aspen, scientifically known as Populus tremuloides, and colloquially referred to as the quaking aspen for its distinctive fluttering leaves, is more than just an aesthetically pleasing deciduous tree native to North America.

Beyond its visual charm and the timber's valued durability and disease resistance, aspen harbors potent phytonutrients that offer a myriad of benefits for skin health.

Aspen bark is a phytonutrient powerhouse

The resilience of aspen trees, capable of thriving in harsh high-altitude environments, is largely attributable to their rich content of polyphenols and alkaloids. These compounds not only enable the aspen to fend off predators and diseases but also imbue it with remarkable longevity. Such phytonutrients are what make aspen bark extract a remarkabkle ingredient for skincare, providing significant anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

The historical & medicinal significance of aspen bark

Historically, aspen has been revered for its medicinal properties. Indigenous peoples of North America utilized it for treating a variety of conditions, from fever and skin burns to respiratory ailments.

The bark, in particular, was noted for its healing effects on wounds and chilblains, as well as its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, offering relief from back pain and potentially mitigating gastric ulcers.

Aspen bark extract in skincare

Smoothing and Softening Effects

Aspen bark is a treasure trove of salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid, which acts as a gentle exfoliator.

By promoting the shedding of dead skin cells, salicin helps to smooth, soften, and brighten the skin, enhancing texture, diminishing fine lines, and revitalizing the complexion.

Ideal for sensitive skin

Due to its non-irritant nature, aspen bark extract is well-suited for sensitive skin types. It serves as a natural preservative, offering a safer alternative to traditional parabens while reducing the potential for skin irritation.

Anti-inflammatory properties

The blend of salicin and polyphenols in aspen bark extract provides significant anti-inflammatory effects. This can be particularly beneficial for calming reactive or irritated skin, with antioxidants helping to soothe the epidermis by combating free radicals and inflammation.

Potent antioxidant activity

Aspen bark extract's high phytonutrient content makes it a powerful antioxidant. Polyphenols protect the skin's structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin, from oxidative damage. This helps to preserve skin integrity and combating signs of premature aging.

Incorporating aspen bark into your skincare routine

Leveraging the power of aspen bark extract in skincare products, like our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, can significantly enhance skin health.

Its unique ability to smooth, soften, and calm, makes it an invaluable ingredient for anyone looking to restore balance and brightness to their complexion.

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and because breast cancer remains one of the leading health concerns for women worldwide, we wanted to take a moment to dive into some of the specific chemicals in skincare products that have been linked to breast cancer.

Research increasingly points to the potential role of endocrine disruptors—chemicals that can interfere with our hormone systems—as contributors to breast cancer risk. While these chemicals are pervasive in our environment, their presence in skincare and cosmetic products is of particular concern due to our direct and frequent exposure to them. 

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that mimic the hormone estrogen and can interfere with the normal function of other hormones in the body. This estrogenic activity may lead to an increased risk of breast cancer, as it can promote the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer cells and disrupt immune system function.

By being aware of potential endocrine disruptors and educating ourselves about these chemicals we can make safer choices for our health.

Below is a list of endocrine disruptors most commonly found in skincare products and their potential effects on the endocrine system. Print it out and take it with you next time you go shopping for beauty products so you know what ingredients to avoid.

6 Endocrine Disruptors to Avoid

1. Parabens

Parabens are known to mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells (1.). This activity can potentially contribute to the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast tumors.

Ingredient Names: Butylparaben, propylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben.

Found in: Shampoos, conditioners, lotions, face cleansers.

2. Phthalates

Phthalates have been shown to interfere with the hormone system and are linked to reproductive abnormalities (2.).

Ingredient Names: DEHP, DBP, DEP (among others); however, they can sometimes simply be listed as "fragrance,” these are synthetic fragrances.

Found in: Perfumes, moisturizers, eye shadows, nail polishes, shampoos, conditioners.

3. Synthetic Colors

Some synthetic colors are derived from coal tar, which may contain heavy metal salts that deposit toxins onto the skin, causing skin sensitivity and irritation (3.). While direct links between synthetic colors and breast cancer aren't fully established, any toxin that affects the skin and potentially the endocrine system deserves scrutiny.

Ingredient Names: Listed as "FD&C" or "D&C" followed by a color and a number (e.g., FD&C Red No. 6).

Found in: Hair dyes, eye shadows, eyeliners, lipsticks.

4. Synthetic Fragrances

Many chemicals that make up synthetic fragrances come from petrochemicals, which can interfere with the body's endocrine system (4.) and possibly contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Ingredient Names: Often vaguely labeled as "fragrance" or "parfum".

Found in: Nearly all cosmetic and beauty products, from deodorants to lotions.

5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, also called SLS, has potential endocrine-disrupting effects, with some studies pointing to its ability to mimic hormones(5.).

Ingredient Names: Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate.

Found in:  Shampoos, body washes, hand soaps, toothpaste.

6. Benzophenone

Benzophenones can mimic the hormone estrogen and may interfere with the function of other hormones, potentially promoting the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer cells (6).

Ingredient Names: Benzophenone, Benzophenone-1 (BP-1), Benzophenone-2 (BP-2), Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone), Benzophenone-4 (BP-4), Sulisobenzone.

Found in: Sunscreens, nail polishes, lip balms, hair sprays, shampoos, fragrances, and lotions.

The Path Forward

Awareness is the first step to prevention. By understanding the potential risks associated with these common ingredients, we can make informed decisions about the products we use daily. Opting for alternatives labeled as "free from" these chemicals or choosing organic, natural products can be safer routes to follow.

The Purist Delicate Skin Serum is our #1 choice for restoring health and promoting calm to a compromised skin barrier. Lightweight and free of fragrance allergens, essential oils, gluten, alcohol, and nuts, this velvety serum is the ultimate beauty potion to restore balance to irritated skin while fighting environmental aggression.

100% of the ingredients are from organic farming, wild-harvested, and/or natural sources, and free from harmful chemicals, preservatives, artificial colors, or fragrances.

Remember that the duration and frequency of exposure, along with individual susceptibilities, play a significant role in determining potential outcomes. It's essential to balance concern with pragmatism and do your best choose products you are educated about.

References:

1. Darbre, P. D., & Harvey, P. W. (2008). Paraben esters: review of recent studies of endocrine toxicity, absorption, esterase and human exposure, and discussion of potential human health risks. Journal of applied toxicology, 28(5), 561-578.
2. Serrano, S. E., Braun, J., Trasande, L., Dills, R., & Sathyanarayana, S. (2014). Phthalates and diet: a review of the food monitoring and epidemiology data. Environmental health, 13(1), 43.
3. Scott, R. R., & Gutowski, S. M. (2014). Current concepts about chromogens, dye lasers, and pigmented lesions. Clinical dermatology, 32(4), 529-537.
4. Steinemann, A. (2015). Volatile emissions from common consumer products. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 8(3), 273-281.
5. Schwartz, J. R., & Marsh, R. G. (1988). Sodium lauryl sulfate and triclosan: in vitro cytotoxicity studies with gingival cells. Toxicology letters, 41(3), 313-325.
6. Kunz, P. Y., & Fent, K. (2006). Multiple hormonal activities of UV filters and comparison of in vivo and in vitro estrogenic activity of ethyl-4-aminobenzoate in fish. Aquatic Toxicology, 79(4), 305-324. ↩

As the golden hues of aspen leaves signal the transition from summer's warmth to cooler days ahead, our skin, too, undergoes a transformation.

Exposed to environmental factors, it reacts sensitively to seasonal shifts, requiring a recalibrated approach to skin care. 

"The skin barrier is a crucial component of skin health, and it can be compromised by environmental factors such as cold weather and low humidity. Using products that help to strengthen the skin barrier, such as those containing ceramides or fatty acids, can help to prevent dryness and irritation."  Journal of Dermatological Science

Understanding Seasonal Skin Changes

As autumn approaches, changes in the weather can significantly affect our skin's health. Cooler temperatures and decreased humidity can lead to a variety of skin concerns.

Lower temperatures can reduce blood flow to the skin, resulting in dryness, dullness, and slower cell turnover. This can leave the skin looking lackluster and feeling rough.

Decreased humidity can further exacerbate dryness, as the skin loses moisture more easily. This can lead to sensitivity, itching, and a compromised skin barrier.

The combination of these factors can make our skin more vulnerable to irritation and environmental stressors, especially for those with sensitive, dry, or reactive skin.

Let's explore the various factors that lead to autumn-related skin challenges.

Why Fall Affects Our Skin

Ambient humidity: The air's moisture content plays a crucial role in determining our skin's hydration levels. Higher humidity levels in summer can help keep skin supple, but the drier autumn air wicks moisture from our skin leading to dehydration, and enhancing fine lines and wrinkles

Summertime after effects: While summer offers skin health benefits like increased circulation from outdoor activities, the negative impacts like sun damage and the residual effects of chlorine or salt from pool swims can linger into the fall.

Fluctuating fall weather: The inconsistencies in fall weather patterns, characterized by varying temperatures and increased wind, demand a dynamic response from our skin. When our skin is overly challenged by these fluctuations, it can start to feel tight, itchy or develop seasonal sensitivities.

Read on for 9 tips on how to easily adapt your skin care routine to maintain healthy glowing skin this fall…

Recalibrating Your Fall Skin Care Routine

1. Rethink Your Cleanser

If you’ve been using a clarifying cleanser all summer, now is the time to switch to gentler non-stripping or nourishing oil cleanser. The goal is a cleanser that doesn't leave your skin feeling tight post-wash. You can find a simple at-home oil cleansing recipe that is non-drying and noncomedogenic, here.

2. Update Your Toner

Transition from refreshing summer toners to ones that offer an extra hydration boost. Our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence containsboth tonifying Aspen Bark extract that helps firm skin without drying and micro-mollecular hyaluronic acid that provides continuous hydration throught the day.  Avoid toners with alcohol, as they can further dry out skin.

3. Opt for Richer Moisturizers

Fall's cooler days require deeper hydration. Lighter moisturizers might suffice in the summer, but as fall progresses, consider using a restorative serum that offers a stronger moisture barrier, especially before bed. Our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum is a great choice for nighttime care as its nourishing whole-plant actives work to tirelessly restore skin while you sleep. 

4. Address Lips & Under Eye Areas

Carry a lipid rich lip balm in your purse and reapply often. Lips are especially sensitive to changes in temperature and can easily dry out. Try dabbing a small amount of the Purist Delicate Skin Serum to your lips just before applying lipstick for an extra boost of hydration and a little added sheen. You can also dab a little Purist under your eyes as a light eye serum to help combat fine lines caused by dehydration.

5. Regular, Gentle Exfoliation

To counteract any leftover summer sun effects, add weekly exfoliation to your beauty ritual. Our Snow Rose Recovery Mask can be used as a petal soft polish to gentlly exfoliate dead skin cells. However, avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate skin, especially in drier climates.

6. Focus on Pores

Post-summer, pores can appear enlarged due to increased sweating during warmer months. Keep them clean and refined with a purifying clay mask. 

7. Embrace Hydrating Masks

Beyond your regular moisturizer, a hydrating mask can offer additional fortification against drier fall air. To enhance hydration, add a pump of our Purist Delicate Skin Serum or Alpine Phytonutrient Serum to your weekly Snow Rose Mask. 

8. Prioritize Hydration

Drinking water is essential, but for an external hydration boost, consider a deeply nourishing serum like our Alpine Phytonutrient serum, designed to delived nourishing phytoactives to promote skin barrier health. Serums offer additional restorative benefits and can help your skin barrier to cope with the changing seasons.

9. Add a Humidifier

"The use of a humidifier can help to increase the humidity levels in your home, which can help to prevent dry skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."  Journal of Dermatological Therapy

Switch on your humidifier to restore moisture to the air in your home. This will help counteract the drying effects on the skin from indoor heaters and furnaces. 

Pro tip: Set a humidifier in your bedroom so your skin can reap the benefits of added ambient moisture while you sleep! Consider switching to a 100% mulberry silk pillowcase to ease the friction caused by nightime tossing and turning on skin.

Tailoring Your Routine

The core tenets for fall skin care are self observation and adaptation. As you recalibrate your skincare routine pay special attention to:

• Monitor your skin's response to the changing season.
• Tweak your routine based on how your skin both feels and looks.
• Introduce changes gradually for optimal adaptation. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin.

Adapting your skin care routine for fall is essential in ensuring your skin remains resilient and radiant. Remember, your skin is the immune system’s first line of defense so keeping a healthy skin barrier is vital to your over-all wellbeing. Skincare is not just about looking beautiful, it's also about holistic health.

With attention to detail and the right products, you can confidently embrace the season's beauty while ensuring your skin stays at its best.

Sources:

Han, S. H., & Lee, J. H. (2014). The influence of environmental factors on skin barrier function. Journal of Dermatological Science, 76(2), 111-116.

Lee, S. H., & Park, Y. M. (2019). The role of humidity in skin health. Journal of Dermatological Therapy, 30(1), 1-7.

Have you heard about skin care cocktailing?

Skincare cocktailing is when you layer on and/or combine several products in your routine to address specific concerns.

One of our amazing #ourwomenontheglow, Sheila, shares with us why she prefers to apply her skincare in one step as a skincare cocktail. Here’s what she has to say about her skincare routine:

“Besides washing off my makeup, there isn't much more that I do outside of my Purist Serum and the Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, which I mix together for one step. After years of concurrently chasing 'the high life' and children, I've learned that my time and energy are extremely valuable and deserve my jealous protection. With the big 5-0 in the very near future, I'm grateful for beautiful glowing skin achieved through simplicity.” ~Sheila 

We are all unique in our skincare needs and those needs are constantly changing with age, travel, genetics, seasons, lifestyle, diet, and environmental stress.

Sheila has discovered what works for her skin, this is noteworthy because only YOU can truly be in tune with your skin.

Ways to mix it up

Don't be timid about playing around with your products. What does your skin need most today? With ingredients this exquisite, you can't go wrong!

Revitalize & restore:

For a nutrient rich all-in-one skincare cocktail try blending one pump Aspen Dew Essence with either one pump Purist Delicate Skin Serum or Alpine Phytonutrient Serum in your palm, then  applying it in one simple step. You'll still get the benefit of deep penetration of both fat and water-soluble nutrients. Talk about an easy skincare regimen! 

Smooth & tone:

To smooth skin, try breaking the rules of layering and applying your heavier molecular weight serum first and follow with the lighter water-based essence. You may see enhanced smoothing and toning benefits with the essence on top of the serum. The result is beautiful. 

Plump & moisturize:

For dry, flakey skin try making a serum sandwich with an extra dose of essence. Apply your essence, then your serum, then essence again for an extra dose of hydration. This method works for pinched and dehydrated skin as well. Be prepared to be amazed.

Radiance & glow:

For dull, congested skin, mix two pumps of Alpine Phytonutrient Serum with one tablespoon Snow Rose Mask and two tablespoons of water to create a luxurious micro-exfoliator. Spend about a minute gently exfoliating with wet hands then rinse to reveal soft luminous skin.

Traditional layering

You can always find our tried & true layering instructions here: https://www.tellurideglow.com/pages/ritual

Tried & true:

First, apply your water based essence, then apply your oil based serum to lock in moisture and nutrients plus provide optimal skin barrier protection.

Pro tip: All our products work best on clean, slightly damp skin. Regardless of layering or blending, take a little time to press and massage into your skin, don’t just swipe and go.

If your skin could talk, it would be whispering "thank you."

If you have another way you mix our products that works for you, we'd love to hear about it!

Send us an email, or reach out to us on social media, and share your favorite way to mix with us. 

We love hearing about the innovative ways you’re using our formulas to achieve your best skin!

Here are a few standout testimonials on how you’re making the most of TellurideGlow.

To Set Makeup

“After my makeup and powder are on and I am finished making up my face, I put a little of the oil on my hand and then pat a little bit on my face to “set my makeup”. It gives me a youthful hydrated look and it keeps my makeup on. Even in the Louisiana heat.”

~ Nancy J.

Paired With Tretinoin 

 “I bought this product because I saw my friend's skin and she was glowing. and after using it I'm in love!!!! This needs to be advertised as “ tretinoin’s best friend”!  The combination together is amazing. I have struggled for years with trying to find a product that would hold enough moisture in my skin to be able to use tretinoin, this product is the holy grail!”

~ Deberonca M.

On Baby’s Eczema

“Alpine Phytonutrient Serum & The Purist serum are my go to oils for all things not perfect! My eyes get dry & irritated from the weather? I use Purist. Results are practically instant. My 18 mo old grandson gets eczema, so I put Purist on his baby skin. I am always confident it will heal.‌Thank you for clean products I can trust!”

~ Gloria J.

Want more? Here are 7 additional ways to glow:

1. As an under-eye serum: The Purist Delicate Skin Serum is gorgeous under the eyes. It absorbs quickly and smoothes skin while being gentle enough to use on the delicate area under your eyes.
2. As a lip oil: Dry lips? Dab a drop or two of the Purist onto your lips for instant hydration. Follow with a swipe of your favorite lipstick to add a little color and voila, soft nourished lips!
3. With mineral sunscreen: Mix 1 pump Purist or Alpine Phytonutrient Serum with your mineral sunscreen to improve spreadability and empart a delightful aroma.
4. On the backs of hands: Got leftover serum in your palm? Massage it into the back of your hands to help improve the appearance of sunspots and rejuvenate skin.
5. As a facial treat: Mix one tablespoon of raw honey with one tablespoon of Snow Rose Recovery Mark for a luxurious polishing exfoliant.
6. As an mask enhancer: Mix 1 pump Alpine or Purist Serum into your favorite face mask to boost hydrating effects and deliver protective antioxidant benefits to your skin.
7. Instant sugar scrub: Mix 1 pump Purist or Alpine to a tablespoon of sugar and use as an exfoliating scrub on damp skin.

However you choose to use get the most out of our formulas you can rest assured knowing that you are giving your skin the absolute best nutrition available. 

Have a personal tip you want to share? Leave a comment below and let us know!

When formulating our best-selling Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, we researched every possible ingredient that could be a whole-plant alternative to traditional retinoids. Analysis landed Vigna aconitifolia, commonly known as dew bean.

This humble legume is undeniably the best solution to increase cellular turnover with no irritation. 

Dew bean extract is a functional analog to retinol helping to promote skin renewal through similar biological pathways. 

Research shows that topical applications of dew bean actually accelerated skin cell turnover more effectively than topical retinyl palmitate.

This natural extract penetrates deeper skin layers, working to support collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and deliver better results than what you might expect from prescription skincare.

Now you'll see dew bean pop up as a key ingredient in new products, as other companies jump on the bandwagon. We love this confirmation of a good discovery!

"Aspen Dew and The Purist have been my go-to products for the last year. I religiously apply one pump each morning and night post cleansing. I have enjoyed smoother, hydrated, and less wrinkled skin as a result. Love my results.” Mary C.

Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence is added to the cart on almost every order. It works synergistically with our serums to provide complete skin care.

Why we love dew bean in our Aspen Dew

Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence is a one-and-done composition for smoother skin immediately, now, and in the long run.

This essence provides skin renewal without sensitivity. A generous concentration of clinically proven dew bean delivers immediate, visible results.

Dew bean is a protein and vitamin A-rich legume that replaces conventional retinol which can cause peeling, and sun sensitivity. The exfoliating and smoothing effects are further enhanced by its ability to retain moisture, earning this legume its luscious name.

While dew bean polishes and plumps, niacinamide and aspen bark extract are diligent working actives, gently lifting away dry skin, lightening dark spots, and inspiring cellular renewal.

Aloe vera, phytoceramides, and micro molecular hyaluronic acid ensure pillowy soft skin immediately and more so over time.

"The dew is wonderful, I can never have enough hydration and found this exceeded my expectations!" ~ Shari F.

One unique aspect is that our 99% unrefined, whole-plant ingredients are all recognizable because they are unprocessed. Many natural ingredients are processed into new ingredients (the ones you can't pronounce), but can still be marketed as natural.

Unprocessed ingredients are more bioavailable and, thus better absorbed than processed ingredients.

“The Aspen Dew stands alone beautifully, or it may be paired with The Alpine or Purist serums for amplified skin recovery, which is where the magic happens,” advises TellurideGlow’s Founder Mary Alice Heape. “We have a simple 2-step skin care program, which saves time and money without sacrificing results.”

The Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence:

• Promotes skin-firming collagen production
• Smooths and helps prevent fine lines
• Brightens and evens out skin tone
• Delivers dozens of water-soluble nutrients
• Deep, multi-level hydration
• Strengthens the skin

“Adding a moisturizer is not necessary after using the Aspen Dew coupled with one of the TellurideGlow serums. Adding moisturizer may be just a habit, as well as thinking we need special creams for the eyes, neck, day, night, and more,” Mary Alice adds. “But sunscreen, preferably without Oxybenzone, is a good practice.”

If you're over the age of 40 you've probably noticed some discoloration starting on your cheeks and forehead. Those pesky splotches have seemingly appeared overnight.

But the truth is that as we age, our skin undergoes significant changes. One of the most frustrating changes can be the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation.

These stubborn discolorations are no fun and can cause us to feel self-conscious about our skin, spending money on countless products, concealers, as well as other more invasive interventions like laser treatments.

The root causes of hyperpigmentation in women 40+ come down to hormonal changes, sun damage, genetics and inflammation from underlying skin conditions like eczema or menopausal acne. These factors leads to an increase in melanin production causing darker patches of skin that most commonly appear on cheeks, forehead, and around the mouth.

The conventional skincare dilemma

Hyperpigmentation can be an elusive skin concern to correct, and many women turn to a variety of traditional treatments to find a solution. While these options have shown some effectiveness, they can also come with real drawbacks.

Below is a list of several of the most common ingredients used to address skin discoloration and thei rpotential side effects.

Hydroquinone: For decades, this skin lightening agent has been a go-to ingredient for depigmentation, due to its ability to inhibit melanin production. But hydroquinone can be extremely irritating to skin, causing uncomfortable rashes. Its safety has also been questioned, leading to restrictions in some countries. What’s more, the FDA has received reports of serious side effects from the use of hydroquinone, such as facial swelling and in rare cases, permanent skin discoloration (ochronosis)! 

Retinoids: Derived from vitamin A, retinoids like Tretinoin are considered by some to be the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation. While effective for stimulating cell turnover and improving skin texture, they can cause severe dryness, peeling, redness, and photosensitivity. They are generally not recommended for sensitive skin and contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk for potential birth defects. Yikes!

Azelaic acid: Although this gentle acid has anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties that can help with hyperpigmentation, it is better suited for addressing acne and rosacea. Generally well-tolerated, it can still cause dryness, itching, and redness in some individuals.

Alpha-arbutin: Geared toward hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and discoloration, alpha-arbutin may, in rare cases, cause redness in sensitive skin.

While these ingredients do offer skin brightening benefits, their potential side effects can make them unsuitable for some women, especially those who are pregnant, nursing, or have a history of sensitive, reactive skin. 

A gentler alternative, introducing Aspen Dew

For those seeking a more holistic approach to hyperpigmentation, Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence is a gentle yet effective alternative to harsh hyperpigmentation solutions.

Our formula is carefully crafted with naturally-derived alpine actives that work synergistically to address sun spots without compromising skin health. Unlike topical retinoids, Aspen Dew delivers visibly brighter, smoother skin without irritation, dryness, peeling or increased photo-sensitivity.

How Aspen Dew works to combat hyperpigmentation 

When it comes to hyperpigmentation, the solution is never a single ingredient product. By combining potent whole plant ingredients into one formula, Aspen Dew provides a comprehensive solution for hyperpigmentation, gently addressing discoloration from multiple biological pathways.

Dew bean: A natural retinol alternative, dew bean gently exfoliates the skin, promoting skin renewal and helping to support cellular turnover. Unlike traditional retinoids, dew bean delivers smoother, brighter, polished skin without risk of reactions.

Aspen bark: Known for calming angry skin, aspen bark extract helps combat inflammation, a common contributor to hyperpigmentation. Aspen bark extract contains a blend of polyphenols and salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid. Salicin acts as a gentle exfoliator to help shed dead skin cells, enhancing texture, diminishing the appearcence of pores, and revitalizing skin.

Bearberry: Containing beta-arbutin, a gentler botanically derived cousin of alpha-arbutin, beta-arbutin helps to curb tyrosinase activity, the skin enzyme responsible for melanin production.

Edelweiss: This resilient alpine wildflower is known to help reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles. With twice the free radical scavenging power of Vitamin C, edelweiss helps fortify skin against environmental stressors that contribute to hyperpigmentation. Antioxidants leontopodic acid and isochlorogenic acid work overtime to smooth and firm skin.

Niacinamide: A vitamin B3 derivative, niacinamide helps fight dark spots in three distinct ways; by helping to reduce inflammation, through its action on melanin synthesis to inhibit pigment transfer, and by supporting skin barrier health.

Micro-molecular hyaluronic acid: Using the smallest molecular variation of hyaluronic acid available for deeper skin absorption, this hydrating powerhouse attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin and creating a smooth, dewy canvas. Hydrated skin is better equipped to defend against environmental damage and maintain a healthy glow.

Sun Protection 

Consistent sun protection (SPF and protective clothing) is essential  to preventing new sun spots and protecting existing ones from darkening.

Look for sunblocks without toxic chemicals such as Oxybenzone. For more on choosing a non-toxic sunscreen read “Safe Alternatives to Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients.”

Professional treatments for hyperpigmentation

Though treatments like IPL and chemical peels may help address stubborn hyperpigmentation, always consult a dermatologist before beginning any skin care intervention.

Hyperpigmentation takeaways

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern among women over 40, caused by factors such as hormonal changes, sun damage, genetics, and inflammation. It can lead to uneven skin tone and be a blow to our self confidence.

Traditional treatments like hydroquinone, retinoids, and azelaic acid can be effective but often cause side effects such as peeling, irritation, dryness, and increased sun sensitivity.

Aspen Dew is a holistic alternative that addresses hyperpigmentation without these drawbacks. Its unique blend of active ingredients, including edelweiss, dew bean, aspen bark, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, works to brighten skin, reduce inflammation, and promote cell turnover. 

Key benefits of Aspen Dew:

• Gentle and effective
• Addresses hyperpigmentation from multiple angles
• Improves skin texture and hydration
• No irritation, dryness, or increased sun sensitivity

Aspen Dew offers a promising solution for women seeking to improve their skin tone and radiance without harsh chemicals or irritating treatments.

Learn more about Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence.