Effective recovery skincare starts with premium ingredients that go well beyond average. Our science-backed secret at TellurideGlow is integrating high-performance and high-grade extremophiles, with minimal processing, into every TellurideGlow formula. 

Extreme-O what?!?

An extremophile is an organism that thrives in physically or geochemically extreme conditions that are detrimental to most life on Earth. Extremophiles hail from the harshest environments on the planet, including mountainous regions. In the plant kingdom, botanical extremophiles are also known as  extremophytes.

Not all antioxidants are alike. It is the very nature of extremophiles to thrive where other organisms cannot, doing so by producing potent secondary metabolites that manufacture an abundance of phytonutrients, the real workhorses of antioxidants that encourage regeneration, discourage inflammation and defend against aggression.

Palpable botanical benefits are the phytoceramides, essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals in abundance that help keep both plants and skin healthy and vitalized.

Think of extremophiles as the Olympic athletes of plants. They continually train harder and perform better than the average plant, and the results are more profound.

How it all started

Our founder, Mary Alice, had a mission to not let the unforgiving climate of Telluride, Colorado win the battle over healthy skin. Depleted skin became the norm from living about 9,000 feet above sea level with low oxygen and humidity, intense UV radiation, and extreme wind, snowfall, and temperatures. Nothing worked, at any price. 

Her research led right outside of her window in the 13,000 to 14,000 majestic peaks surrounding Telluride. The most brutal growing conditions in the world also produce the most powerful, high-performance plants in the world, and those plants became integral to TellurideGlow’s Recovery Skincare.

TellurideGlow delivers results with some of the industry’s highest concentrations of powerful nutrients from 13 fortifying alpine survivalist plants to transport the energy of nature right to your skin.

We harness the power of over 50 of the highest-grade botanical ingredients for complete skin-beautifying nutrition. Every product is 100% natural with actives that help to accelerate regeneration, way beyond average.

Alpine plant power is at the heart of every TellurideGlow creation, formulated with the highest ratios and the greatest variety of cytoprotective alpine botanicals on the market for unsurpassed skin revival.

 “I love this oil! It's the best moisturizer for this dry, rotten climate I live in!” ~Cynthia 

Hardworking alpine recovery botanicals restore skin health 

We step beyond the boundaries of Telluride to find extremophile plants with the most active, skin-boosting whole-plant ingredients that can only be found in exotic higher elevations, and make them the foundation for elevated recovery skincare.

Antioxidant-rich Cloudberries withstanding temperatures of 40 below zero in Arctic Scandinavia

Rare and protected Edelweiss from the Swiss Alps with more free radical fighting ability than vitamin C

Himalayan Sea Buckthorn Berries with over 190 micronutrients that feed your skin

Rare, mineral-rich Glacial Clay from the Southern Alps of New Zealand

Skin-smoothing Aspen Bark plus mountain meadow Arnica to boost circulation

Actives from these survivalist plants keep your skin feeling so nourished that you can walk out of the house without giving it a second thought.

“You have a beautiful product! Yesterday I went to physical therapy, so no makeup. Everyone kept telling me how beautiful my skin is!!” ~G. Johnson

Vibrant skin to withstand urban agression

Harsh weather. Pollutants. Stress. Aging. Sensitivities. Outdoor lifestyles. They all contribute to skin aging faster than normal. And while we know we can’t stop aging, we know we can slow down its effects. 

 “Harsh weather conditions disrupt the skin surface barrier affecting the skin’s ability to retain moisture.” ~ Dr. Hextall, dermatologist, The Harley Medical Group    

Thanks to Mother Nature and her extremophiles, your skin can reclaim strength and resiliency, withstanding any modern-day stresses, anywhere. 

Telluride Glow is the honest ‘whole package’ of nutritional skincare, making it as close as you can get from the plant to your skin.

Let's compare ‘apples to apples.’

Dig deeper!

Looking closer at natural brands will ensure you are getting what you are paying for, meaning real results. But 'greenwashing' in marketing cleverly works to convince us that all-natural products are equal. 'Natural' is probably the most misunderstood word in the beauty industry.

Greenwashing is so common that it has a Wikipedia definition. "Greenwashing, also called "green sheen", is a form of marketing spin in which green PR and green marketing are deceptively used to persuade the public that an organization's products, aims and policies are environmentally friendly."   

Organic beauty

Not all organic (plant) ingredients are certified organic.

Why is organic certification important? Without regulation, pesticides may be used in farming, and those can be absorbed into the skin.

It's astonishing that some high-end $$ botanical skincare lines do not use certified organic ingredients!

Certification also guarantees that the plants are non-GMO. You'll find certified organic ingredients noted with an asterisk* on the full ingredient panel.

Some brands use organic ingredients, but only as a small percentage of the total ingredient list. The term 'with organic' is allowed as a descriptive term on secondary panel labeling, even if only one ingredient is from a plant. 

TellurideGlow (TG) serums at 96% meet the percentage requirements for the USDA Organic Seal, and the Aspen Dew Essence at 85% meets the USDA "made with organic' 70% percentage requirement.

“I have really enjoyed the products and can see and feel a difference in my 53-year-old skin. Even my aesthetician has noticed a difference.“ ~Catherine H.

Green beauty

Some brands use botanical ingredients, but they are compromised when engineered into completely new, unrecognizable ingredients.

TG uses whole plant, unprocessed botanicals, which are more bioavailable to the skin, resulting in better absorption of plant nutrients, especially antioxidants.

Some brands use botanical ingredients, but they are processed with destructive heat, chemicals, and bleach.

TG uses cold-pressed ingredients, a more costly process, and also cold formation during manufacturing to preserve the delicate nutrients from the plants.

Processing procedures won't be found on the box, so here is where you have to trust your brand.

Some brands use harsh chemical preservatives and questionable, potentially harmful ingredients. 

Most natural companies typically tout five to six omitted ingredients, whereas TG has a banned list of over 2,000 ingredients!

Some brands claim to be sustainable but only in reference to packaging. Sustainability also applies to ingredients and strict farming procedures that protect the soil.

TG spends months verifying every ingredient with farming operations and documentation before including the Environmentally Conscious icon.

100% of our plant ingredients are sustainable!

“I really do love your products. They’ve made an enormous difference in my life. Jai Baghwan.” ~ Breanne 

High elevation alpine plants

Some brands use Alpine ingredients, but use the same three to five ingredients in every formula, like salt and pepper.

TG has a repertoire of 14 alpine ingredients customized to each formula. 

Some brands use Alpine ingredients, but only in very small ratios. 

TG sources worldwide to provide the highest ratios and greatest variety of cytoprotective high-altitude botanicals on the market.

Why are we so keen on plants that grow up high?

Because they are some of the most potent, high-performance plants anywhere.

Wildcrafted

Some brands feature 'wildcrafted' ingredients... but what are those exactly?

There is no definition of wildcrafted by the FDA or the US Department of Agriculture. Wildcrafted is a marketing term that could mean foraging, but it could also mean farming, and not necessarily organic.

Think about the reality of using foraged ingredients...could a manufacturer count on ample supply from unpredictable foraging in fields and forests?

TG believes wildcrafted plants are a second choice and uses them when plants cannot be farmed organically.

For example, cloudberry fields grow on slopes in Arctic regions, and acai berries grow similarly in Nepal. Both are not conducive to farming.

Containers

Some brands use clear bottles, which are susceptible to light deterioration by UV rays reducing product efficacy.

TG uses dark glass containers to keep out damaging light. TG mainly uses airless pump tops to keep the product pristine.

Manufacturing

Not all skin products are laboratory tested or have an expiration date. Lab testing is not required by the FDA.  

TG uses third-party laboratory testing for safety and stability and includes the PAO (open jar symbol) with the number of months indicating freshness once opened.

Many brands use stock formulas and only tweak them to suit their marketing message.

All TG formulas are custom-formulated by an award-winning micro-formulation chemist, and all are proprietary.

Marketing

Some brands feature Key Ingredients but are often in small amounts. Locate the key ingredients on the full Ingredient panel and see where it stands.

Ingredients are listed from highest to lowest amounts.

Note:  Essential Oils contain fragrance allergens and should only be used in small amounts, so those should be toward the end. 

TG has several key ingredients in each formula and in significant amounts.

Some brands do not post the full ingredient list on their website, listing only the key ingredients. What are they hiding?

TG is proud of every ingredient, so posting is boasting!

Telluride Glow has formulated, packaged, and manufactured to the highest industry standards in botanical beauty, making our products trustworthy, and most importantly, effective.

TellurideGlow chose pomegranate seed oil as an ingredient in The Purist Delicate Skin Serum for multiple reasons.

Of course, we only use cold-pressed seeds to uphold the quality of their enzymes, nutrients, and vitamins.

1. Pomegranate defends the skin against harmful elements by neutralizing the effects of free radicals. It is well known that UV rays, stress, poor diet, and pollution, cause us to be exposed to a far greater number of free radicals than ever before. The result is premature aging and damage to the skin and hair.

2. Pomegranate is packed with minerals and vitamins, especially an impressive amount of vitamin C, offering regenerative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties that promote bouncy, glowing skin. Antioxidants like vitamin A (or retinol) work to fight free radicals while fading fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Pomegranate is loaded with up to 65% fatty acids! Omega-5 fatty acids are considered to be incredibly powerful antioxidants plus a wealth of other omega acids, which have a diverse set of abilities ranging from softening skin to soothing acne and clearing sebum from our pores.

4. Bonus: A compound unique to pomegranate oil called punicic acid can help to improve elasticity and even skin tone while encouraging skin regeneration. 

5. Pomegranate has high concentrations of omega-6 fatty acids, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid help the skin in different ways. For example, linoleic acid promotes moisture retention, while palmitic acid works as an effective emollient. 

Fatty acids may be especially helpful for those who suffer from acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Studies have shown that pomegranate seed oil can encourage the production of keratinocytes, which help fibroblasts stimulate cell turnover.

What this means for your skin is increased barrier function, meaning a stronger epidermis to protect your skin.  

Pomegranates truly are the Fruit of Life to prevent and restore damaged skin, so eat them whenever you get a chance and apply them to your skin daily via The Purist Serum.

Goji berries embody much more than just a tasty addition to your breakfast bowl. These nutrient-rich super-berries, also known as “wolfberries”, serve as a potent source of nutrients for your skin.

Originating from the lush landscapes of Asia, goji berries ( Lycium barbarum) have been revered in traditional medicine for centuries.

Lauded for their disease-preventing and immune-boosting properties, goji berries contain a dense concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients.

Antioxidants galore 

The secret behind goji berries' efficacy in promoting skin health lies in their exceptional antioxidant capacity. These antioxidants shield the skin from oxidative stress, which is a key contributor to premature aging. 

By neutralizing free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells—goji berries help maintain the skin's collagen and elastin integrity, ensuring its texture remains firm and youthful.

The rich nutrient profile of goji berries, including carotenoids, vitamin C, oleic acid, and polysaccharides, plays a crucial role in enhancing skin color, texture, and overall resilience.

Let’s take a look at each one of these constituents in detail.

Carotenoids, nature’s answer to the sun's rays

Carotenoids, responsible for goji berries' vibrant red color, are formidable allies against environmental aggressors.

Zeaxanthin and lutein, two prominent carotenoids found in goji berries, help guard against UV-induced damage and pollution, safeguarding the skin's structural components and mitigating inflammation.

Skin vitality trio: beta carotene, vitamin C, and zinc

This powerful trio works synergistically to support skin health.

Beta carotene, a vitamin A precursor, excels in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, helping to preserve the skin's elasticity and promoting collagen synthesis.

Vitamin C, known for its brightening effects, contributes to an even skin tone and smoother texture. Zinc enhances these benefits by supporting fibroblast function, essential for maintaining the skin's strength and resilience.

Anti-inflammatory heroes: polysaccharides and betaine

Goji berries are rich in polysaccharides, which not only hydrate and plump the skin but also soothe it, offering protection against harmful biochemical processes. 

Betaine, another key compound, combats inflammation and helps to preserve collagen and elastin from degradation, particularly from sun exposure, thereby preventing premature aging.

Moisture-locking oleic acid

Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid found in goji berries, reinforces the skin's barrier function, minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and ensuring lasting hydration.

Its anti-inflammatory properties, coupled with its antioxidant benefits, provide comprehensive protection against environmental damage and aging.

Why we use Nepalese goji berries

Nepalse goji berries are particularly beneficial for skin health.

This is because the high altitude, clean air and strong sunlight of the Himalayas contribute to a denser nutrient profile that other goji berry varieties.

The glacial deposits over centuries have enriched the Himalayan soil with minerals, ensuring that the goji berries grown here are packed with a higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for skin vitality. Nepalese goji include significant levels of antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and polysaccharides.

You can find goji berry oil inclueded in our best-selling Alpine Phytonutient Serum.

Goji berries for skin health

The integration of goji berries into skincare formulations and dietary habits stands as a testament to their multifaceted benefits for skin health. By offering protection against oxidative damage, enhancing collagen production, and maintaining hydration, goji berries present a holistic approach to achieving radiant, healthy skin.

Incorporating goji berries into both your skincare routine and diet helps nurture and preserve the skin's natural vitality and beauty. 

Goji berries are a clear favorite for anyone seeking to bolster their skin health through nutrient-rich, natural ingredients.

Lavender, known by it's Latin name as Lavandula, has captivated our senses for millennia, not just with its delightful aroma but also with its extensive medicinal and therapeutic properties.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties and rich phytochemical content, stands out for its enhanced phytochemical richness which play a pivotal role in enhancing skin health and emotional well-being.

History and traditional uses of lavendar

The story of lavender is woven deeply into the fabric of history, dating back to ancient civilizations.

In Ancient Egypt, lavender played a crucial role in the mummification process and perfumery.

It is famously associated with Cleopatra's seduction of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Its protective qualities were revered, believed to ward off evil spirits and diseases such as the plague and cholera in medieval Europe.

In Roman times, lavedar was a symbol of cleanliness and purity. Fun fact,  its name is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash," indicative of its use in Roman bathing rituals.

Lavender's healing properties were also recognized in early medicine by Greek physician Dioscorides and further celebrated by herbalist John Parkinson and in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its cooling and soothing effects.

The 20th century saw the pioneering work of French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who, after experiencing lavender's healing effects first hand. After sustaining a burn on his hand he famously plunged it into a vat of lavender oil and was reportedly astonished at the speed with which his hand healed.

Gattefosse's study of lavendar contributed significantly to the foundation of modern aromatherapy, highlighting its antimicrobial and skin regeneration benefits.

The unique benefits of high-altitude lavender

Enhanced relaxation and improved sleep

The sedative properties of high-altitude lavender essential oil have been well-documented, showing significant improvement in sleep quality and stress reduction. Its intense aroma, rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, contributes to its calming effects on the nervous system.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Research highlights lavender oil's ability to mitigate inflammatory responses and soothe skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for reducing redness and discomfort on reactive skin.

Antimicrobial activity

Lavender oil's broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties are effective against skin pathogens, supporting its traditional use in cleansing wounds and preventing infections.

Promotes skin recovery and collagen synthesis

Studies have shown that lavender essential oil may help speed skin recovery by enhancing fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. This property is crucial for improving skin health and integrity.

Guards against premature aging

The polyphenols in high-altitude lavender offer significant antioxidant protection, safeguarding the skin from environmental stressors, UV damage, and preventing signs of premature aging.

Lavender in skincare & wellness

The historical and scientific narratives of lavender converge to underscore its timeless appeal and enduring value in skincare and wellness.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties, represents the pinnacle of this botanical's potential, offering a holistic approach to nurturing the skin and calming the mind.

Incorporating high-altitude lavender into your daily routine can help to enhance sleep quality, reduce stress, promote skin health and protect against premature aging.

Lavender oil is a true testament to the power of nature in supporting our overall well-being.

Lavender's journey from ancient rituals and royal endorsements to modern-day aromatherapy and skincare formulations encapsulates its multifaceted role as a botanical treasure.

As we continue to explore and appreciate lavender's many benefits, we honor a tradition that blends ancient wisdom with contemporary science, ensuring that lavender remains a cherished ingredient in our pursuit of natural health and beauty.

Article References

1. Lytle, J., et al. (2014). "Study on the Effect of Inhalation of Lavender Essential Oil on Patients with Insomnia." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
2. Donelli, D., et al. (2019). "Effects of Lavender on Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Phytomedicine.
3. Sánchez-Vidaña, D. I., et al. (2017). "The Effectiveness of Lavender Essential Oil on Inflammatory Responses and Skin Conditions." International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
4. Zu, Y., et al. (2010). "Antimicrobial Activity of Lavender Oil Against Common Skin Pathogens." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
5. Mori, H. M., et al. (2016). "Accelerated Wound Healing by Lavender Essential Oil in Mice." BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
6. Pandey, K. B., & Rizvi, S. I. (2009). "Plant Polyphenols as Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease." Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

Hemp seed oil is currently basking in well-deserved acclaim. Extracted through the cold pressing of Cannabis sativa seeds, this oil is distinct from the hemp oil derived from the plant’s leaves and flowers and contains no psychoactive constituents. 

Let’s explore the multifaceted benefits hemp seed oil offers to your skin, enriched with a deeper educational insight.

Regulates oil production

The magic of hemp seed oil lies in its ability to regulate oil production. While the exact mechanisms remain a topic of ongoing research, evidence suggests hemp seed oil can modulate sebum production. 

This makes hemp seed oil a boon for both oily and acne-prone skin types. Its unique composition of lipids and antioxidants helps manage and soothe acne outbreaks. The presence of anti-lipogenic properties in hemp seed oil plays a crucial role in controlling sebaceous gland activities and helps maintain skin balance and clarity.

Anti-inflammatory powerhouse

The essential fatty acids (EFAs) in hemp seed oil, including omega-3 and omega-6, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

These EFAs interfere with inflammatory pathways and help reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, offering relief from redness and irritation. 

The tocopherols, or vitamin E compounds found in hemp seed oil, further enhance its anti-inflammatory capabilities, targeting oxidative stress and inflammation at the molecular level.

Enhances skin barrier function

Hemp seed oil is not just revitalizing but also strengthening. 

It is particularly beneficial for conditions like eczema and psoriasis, where compromised skin barrier function is a key concern. The EFAs enrich the skin’s lipid layer, improving the cohesion between epidermal cells and fortifying the skin barrier. 

This enhanced barrier function is crucial in preventing environmental aggressors and pathogens from causing further damage, thereby helping to reduce the incidence and severity of skin disorders.

Promotes hydration and luminosity

The hydration benefits of hemp seed oil stem from its balanced composition of alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, along with gamma-linolenic acid, a potent anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. 

This trifecta effectively forms a protective layer on the skin, minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in moisture. 

The result is a visible improvement in skin texture and luminosity, with a plumped, hydrated appearance that radiates health.

Fights damage from free radicals

Hemp seed oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants, primarily vitamin E in the forms of y-tocopherols, alpha-tocopherols, and tocotrienols. 

These potent antioxidants provide critical defense against free radical damage, which can lead to lipid peroxidation and DNA damage within skin cells. 

By protecting the skin from environmental pollutants, hemp seed oil plays a significant role in 

Hemp seed oil is truly a skin champion with its ability to balance, soothe, strengthen, and hydrate.  Its rich nutrient profile makes it an indispensable ingredient for anyone looking to enhance their skin health. 

As research continues to unveil its myriad benefits, hemp seed oil stands out as a testament to the power of nature in nurturing and revitalizing our skin. You can enjoy all the radiance boosting benefits of this botanical in our Purist Delicate Skin Serum. 

Sea buckthorn is a super-nutrient oil revered in skincare for its unparalleled ability to enhance skin radiance, boost hydration, and combat premature aging. 

This "liquid gold" is not an oceanic extract but a precious yield from the Sea buckthorn shrub, thriving in the lofty realms of the Himalayas. 

Meticulously extracted via mechanical cold pressing from Sea buckthorn berries ensures a potent blend of omegas essential for skin health.

A jewel in traditional medicine

Rooted in centuries-old wisdom, Sea buckthorn has been a cornerstone in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) since the Tang Dynasty (618-907 C.E.), cherished for its holistic health benefits. 

Its Latin name, Hippophae rhamnoides, meaning 'shiny horse,' hints at its historical use for enhancing the vitality and coat health of horses, a testament to its nourishing properties.

Omega-rich rejuvenation

The secret behind Sea buckthorn oil's remarkable skin benefits lies in its comprehensive fatty acid profile, encompassing omega-3, 6, 7, and 9, making it a unique botanical source of all four essential omegas. 

These lipids are pivotal in moderating the skin's inflammatory response, which is crucial since chronic inflammation is a precursor to premature aging and DNA damage. 

The anti-inflammatory properties of Sea buckthorn oil not only soothe the skin but also protect it against the ravages of time, promoting a youthful, vibrant complexion.

Beyond inflammation control, these fatty acids facilitate deep skin penetration, promoting regeneration, collagen production, and renewal. This action is critical for epidermal recovery and helps minimize the look of scars. 

Omega-9, for instance, enhances the skin's absorption of other beneficial compounds, whereas omega-6, converted into prostaglandins, plays a vital role in skin recovery and nutrient transport.

A standout feature of Sea buckthorn oil is its omega-7 content, a rarity in the plant kingdom, known for boosting keratinization, telomerase activity, and collagen formation. 

These processes are essential for slowing aging and reducing hyperpigmentation.

Strengthening the skin barrier

The integrity of the skin barrier is fundamental to overall skin health, serving as a defense against microbial invasion and moisture loss. It is also easily compromised as we age, due to a reduction in our skin’s natural oil production.

Sea buckthorn oil's rich phytoceramide and lipid content fortifies this barrier, effectively reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and shielding the skin from inflammation-induced aging and structural damage. 

Its barrier-strengthening properties also offer support for inflammatory skin conditions, such as dermatitis and rosacea, comforting sensitive reactive-prone skin.

Antioxidant power for smoother firmer skin

Environmental stressors like UV radiation, pollution, and psychological stress contribute to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, accelerating skin aging through oxidative stress. 

Sea buckthorn oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants, including polyphenols and vitamins A, E, and C—boasting a vitamin C content 15 times higher than that of oranges!

These antioxidants mitigate ROS damage, support collagen synthesis, and provide regenerative benefits, crucial for preventing premature aging and facilitating skin recovery.

Moreover, the oil's phytonutrients can help curb the activity of sun-induced MMP enzymes responsible for collagen degradation, offering further protection against aging and inflammation.

Enhanced radiance

Sea buckthorn oil may help support skin detoxification and oxygenation, culminating in a more radiant and glowing complexion. 

This improvement boosts skin barrier health and resilience, something that is especially beneficial for those who spend time in extreme climatic conditions, like skiing in Telluride!

Sea buckthorn oil stands out as a multifaceted elixir in skin care, offering a spectrum of benefits from anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening actions to antioxidant protection and radiance enhancement. 

You can find Sea buckthorn in our best-selling Alpine Phytonutrient Serum and Purist Delicate Skin Serum.

If you've noticed your skin lacking its usual vibrancy or firmness, it might be time to turn to a remedy that has stood the test of time.

Horsetail, a 'living fossil' known scientifically as Equisetum arvense, is not only a testament to nature's resilience but also a treasure trove of benefits for your skin. 

This ancient herb, native to the Northern Hemisphere and prevalent across European landscapes, goes by various names such as mare’s tail, shave grass, scouring rush, and bottlebrush, each reflecting a unique aspect of its appearance or traditional uses.

The history of horsetail

Horsetail's journey through time is as fascinating as its benefits. Esteemed by ancient Greeks and Romans, its medicinal properties were first documented by the Greek physician Claudius Galenus in the 17th century.

This herb was utilized extensively for its ability to combat fluid retention, support hair, skin, and nail health, and even treat osteoporosis and kidney issues.

Its broad application in traditional medicine across cultures, including China and Europe, underscores its versatility and enduring value.

The skin-boosting benefits of horsetail

Supports collagen production

Horsetail stands out in the botanical world for its unparalleled levels of bioavailable silicon, present as silica and silica acids. 

This trace mineral is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that lends skin its strength and elasticity. By bolstering collagen production, horsetail helps enhance skin resiliency and firmness, providing a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Revitalizing properties

Rich in isoquercitrin, a potent flavonoid, horsetail may help to accelerate cellular renewal. This action not only aids in the rapid recovery of skin tissues but also combats the effects of premature photo-aging, ensuring your skin remains vibrant and resilient.

Tames angry skin

The anti-inflammatory properties of horsetail play a significant role in quelling reactive skin. By interrupting the body’s inflammatory response, it minimizes potential damage to skin structures and wards off premature aging, offering a calming effect on angry skin.

Antioxidant-rich

Horsetail's abundance in natural flavonoids and antioxidants equips it to neutralize harmful free radicals generated by stress, environmental pollutants, UV rays, and electronic devices. 

This protective action helps prevent lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, safeguarding the skin from accelerated aging.

Nourishing and moisturizing

As a natural source of a wide array of phytonutrients and minerals, including calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and vitamins, horsetail serves as a powerful nutritive tonic for the skin. It improves skin barrier health and aids in moisture retention, leading to a soft, dewy complexion.

Incorporated into our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, horsetail enriches the skin with its unique blend of minerals and antioxidants, promoting collagen synthesis for a firm and smooth complexion. 

Whether you're looking to revitalize dull skin, enhance moisture retention, or protect against environmental stressors, horsetail offers a multifaceted approach to skin health that has been refined over millennia.

Horsetail's enduring presence and multifunctional benefits make it a cornerstone ingredient for anyone seeking to rejuvenate their skin naturally. By leveraging the ancient wisdom and scientific understanding of horsetail's properties, we can unlock a pathway to achieving radiant, healthy skin that withstands the test of time.

Early sunsets and cooler temperatures are the perfect time to indulge in a little extra self-care in preparation for the activities of the holiday season. 

For centuries, the act of bathing has transcended simple cleansing, evolving into a therapeutic ritual that nourishes both body and soul. Ancient Egyptian royals infused their baths with luxurious oils like sesame and moringa, enveloping themselves in fragrant sanctuaries. In medieval Europe, the nobility sought solace in baths enriched with a blend of precious oils and aromatic herbs like chamomile and calendula. Meanwhile, the Japanese marked the winter solstice with the comforting embrace of Yuzu Yu, where the therapeutic essential oils of the Yuzu citrus infused their steaming baths.

Inspired by these age-old traditions, we're delighted to share with you one of our favorite ways to unwind. 

This bathing beauty ritual isn't just about skincare; it's an invitation to history, luxury, and a deep sense of well-being. Dive in and let every sense be pampered.

Bathing Beauty Ritual

Step 1: Draw a bath

Begin by drawing a warm bath infused with Epsom salts, calming essential oils, and the sheer luxury of argan or baobab oils. The gentle embrace of chamomile tea satchels further elevates this tranquil experience.

Draw a warm bath and add 2 cups of Epsom salts.

Add 5-10 drops of soothing essential oil like lavender, neroli, or sweet orange and 1 teaspoon of a luxury oil like argan or baobab.

For extra calming effects, let 2-3 chamomile tea satchels steep in your bathwater (the sturdier nylon pyramid types work best for this). 

Step 2: Cleanse with an oil cleanser

As the scents envelop you, indulge in a purifying oil cleanse that washes away the worries of the day. 

As you soak in the tub, cleanse your face with 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite oil cleanser for 30-60 seconds. Click here for a basic oil cleansing formula.

Place a warm damp wash cloth on your face before wiping away dirt and makeup. Use both sides of the washcloth to get all the oil off. 

Repeat if you are removing makeup.

Step 3: Apply serums 

Following your soothing soak, with skin delicately damp, apply the Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, followed by our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum or Purist Delicate Skin serum to lock in moisture and enhance your skin's natural radiance.

Today we are spotlighting one of our inspiring #womenontheglow. Kimberly Marney is a stylist, artist, and long-time Purist Delicate Skin Serum fan!

We've been admirers of Kimberly's paintings for a while now, appreciating her artistic eye and keen sense of color.

When we asked if she'd be up for being interviewed for our newsletter, she responded with the same unrestrained joy that is so tangible in her paintings.

Here's what she had to say...

Tell us a bit about yourself.

"I grew up in rural east central Kansas. The open spaces and nature are essential to my DNA. I always believed I could do anything and go anywhere.

I developed a love of fashion before I could walk and was always doing something creative. I spent 18 years as a personal stylist helping people express their style and beauty.

In mid-life I transitioned my artistic endeavors to embrace being an artist. I now paint abstracts inspired by nature. You will see blue heavily represented in my work because it represents hope and beauty for me."

What is your greatest source of inspiration?

"I find inspiration in many places but I have to say those women who I see making their dreams happen and starting something new later in life really inspire me." 

How do you define beauty?

"Confidence, a welcoming smile, and positivity are beautiful."

What does self-care look like to you?

"Take the time to listen to your body and mind. Hydrating, exercising, trying to get good sleep, absorbing quiet moments in nature, getting a good massage, trying to eat healthy, and taking care of my skin." 

What beauty advice would you give other women over 40?

"Make yourself a priority. It’s more than okay to take time for yourself. In fact, it’s essential. Something I wish I knew when I was younger."

Can you share with us the best compliment you’ve ever been given and who it was from?

"I don’t know if it's my best, but last week a woman was completely shocked we were the same age. She thought I was at least 17 years younger! Who would have guessed that being mistaken for 40 would have me flying high?! Skin care is key!"

What’s one skincare tip you wish all women knew about?

"Consistency. Cleanse, moisturize, repeat morning and night."

What’s your daily skincare routine?

"I always start and end the day with clean skin and moisturize with Aspen Dew and The Purist Delicate Skin Serum. I love using my Gua Sha tool after applying my serum."

What is the best beauty secret you have ever received? 

"My mother was always reminding me to have good posture. Good posture projects confidence!"

To keep up with Kimberly and see the paintings she's currently working on check out her Instagram feed @brandedbystyle.

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