Smoodz Naturals Blog
Welcome to my blog and thank you for stopping by! This blog contains topics about Smoodz Naturals, products, tips, news, updates, how-it's-made and more! While you're here, I'd love for you to subscribe, comment and share your love. Thank you for your support. Smoodz Naturals may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. The affiliate links are marked with an asterisk (*) or other identifier.
Friday, January 12, 2024
JOJOBA OIL: A NATURAL SOURCE OF CERAMIDES
Friday, September 15, 2023
My eczema skincare journey: How I'm using wet wraps to help my eczema.
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes the skin to become itchy, dry, and inflamed, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even infection. For many people, like me, eczema is a lifelong struggle that can be difficult to manage. However, there are many treatments available that can help soothe symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with eczema.
One such treatment is wet wrapping, which involves using damp bandages or clothes to cover affected areas of the skin. Wet wraps can help to soothe eczema by reducing inflammation, increasing moisture, and providing a protective barrier against further irritation.
I have been using wet wraps as part of my eczema skincare routine for several weeks now, and have found them to be incredibly effective. Here is my journey with wet wrapping and how it has helped my eczema:
My Journey with Eczema
I have had eczema all my life, and have tried countless treatments and skincare products over the years. While some have been helpful, many have been ineffective or even made my eczema worse.
Smoodz Naturals sites may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. The affiliate links are marked with an asterisk (*) or other identifier.
I first learned about wet wrapping from my own research and learned it is recommended as a natural and gentle way to soothe my eczema. At first, I was skeptical - wrapping my skin in damp fabric seemed like it would only make things worse. However, after trying it a few times, I quickly realized how beneficial it was for my skin.
How I Use Wet Wraps
Here's what you'll need:
-some type of wrapping - https://amzn.to/3sTcwsi
-a moisturizer - https://amzn.to/3Rpac6z
- an emolient - https://amzn.to/3Zmss2c
If after consulting your doctor, you decide you want to use wet wraps, here's what I did. I start by taking a warm bath or shower to hydrate my skin. I then apply a moisturizing cream and an emollient to the affected areas, gently massaging it in to ensure it is absorbed. After that, I take a damp cloth or bandage and wrap it around the affected area, making sure it is snug but not too tight. I then cover the wet wrap with a dry layer such as a thin layer of clothing or a bandage to prevent the dampness from evaporating too quickly. I typically leave the wet wraps on for several hours or overnight.
I would like to clear up my skin so I'm doing the as often as possible. And since my eczema covers my entire body, I use legging and long sleeve shirts as my wet wraps. I soak them in warm water and then put them on once I've moisturized. I also do this when my eczema is particularly severe or flared up. And when I do, I feel the immediate relief from itching and inflammation also I notice sgnificant improvement after each treatment.
Living with eczema can be challenging, but there are many treatments and remedies available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Wet wrapping is an effective, all-natural way to soothe eczema and provide relief from symptoms, including itching, dryness, and inflammation. While it may seem intimidating or unusual at first, wet wrapping is a simple and gentle tool that has made a significant difference in my eczema skincare journey.
Thursday, August 31, 2023
Natural colorants and fluid hot process soap method experience.
This post may contains affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Saturday, August 26, 2023
My eczema skincare journey: how I use borage oil, vitamin d and omega 3 supplements to improve my skin
Eczema can be a frustrating and sometimes painful skin condition to deal with. As someone who struggles with eczema, I know all too well the frustration of trying to find the right skincare routine to manage it. In this blog post, I want to share my own eczema skincare journey and how I'm have found some success using borage oil, vitamin D, and omega-3 supplements.
Smoodz Naturals sites may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. The affiliate links are marked with an asterisk (*) or other identifier.
First, a little background: eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by dry, itchy, and sometimes painful patches of skin. While the exact cause of eczema is not known, it is believed to be related to an overactive immune response. As a result, managing eczema often involves calming and soothing the skin, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system.
Borage oil is an ingredient that has been particularly helpful for me in managing my eczema symptoms. It is extracted from the seeds of the borage plant and is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. I take borage oil supplements daily and I have found that it helps to reduce the intense itching and dryness that often accompanies my eczema flare-ups.
Vitamin D is another essential nutrient that has been getting a lot of attention lately, both for its immune-supportive properties and its potential benefits for skin health. While vitamin D is produced naturally in the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight, many people may not be getting enough through sun exposure alone. I take a daily vitamin D supplement to support my immune system and overall health, and I have noticed that it also seems to help keep my skin looking and feeling healthy.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which makes them another potentially useful tool in managing eczema symptoms. I take an omega-3 supplement daily, and I try to incorporate omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish and flaxseeds into my diet as much as possible. I have found that this helps to reduce inflammation throughout my body, including in my skin.
In addition to these supplements, I have also found that certain lifestyle changes can help to improve my eczema symptoms. For example, I only use the gentle soaps and I make sure to moisturize daily. I also try to minimize stress through activities like going to the beach and getting lots of sleep, as stress can be a trigger for eczema flare-ups.
While everyone's skin and eczema symptoms are unique, I hope my own skincare journey can offer some inspiration and insights for others with eczema. By using borage oil, vitamin D, and omega-3 supplements in combination with other healthy lifestyle practices, I have been able to more effectively manage my eczema symptoms and achieve healthier, happier skin.
Thanks you for stopping by :)
Monday, April 5, 2021
What the term "natural" means to me regarding product labels.
What the term "natural" means to me regarding product labels.
This post may contains affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I was watching a YouTube videos as a fellow Soaper created her soap. And she talked about what it means to call your product natural. She explained that there was no government regulations on calling your products natural so if a product is labeled natural is based on the creator's definition. And that you should examine the ingredients carefully for your own satisfaction. She also believes that if any one of your ingredients are not natural then you can't call your product natural.
So, it is my belief that if it's a small percentage of your ingredients, like less than 10% synthetic then you can still call your product natural just not “all” natural. To me, all natural means just that ALL natural and 100%.
Based on my understanding of natural AND as the creator of my products, I'd like emphasize that my products are natural or all natural, with the exception of candles, because many of those scents are fragrance oil scents, but I will be in the process of phasing them out soon.Although fragrance oils smell amazing, I'd like for my products to be natural. And I always have ingredients labeled on my products. So there's my two cents and thank you for stopping by!!❤❤❤
Monday, April 17, 2017
Vision Board update
In hindsight, I failed to put my beach dream on my vision board, probably because I didn't think it would happen. Which brings me to, earning a BS/BS in Chemistry. At this time, I have concluded that I am too old and uninterested in obtaining a 4-year degree. I don't like school, I am burnt out of my day career as a Chemical Technician, therefore, I am focusing on being my own boss. If I change my mind later, it will be for my own pride.
On a lighter note, I have been to Vegas! At couple of times! Viva Las
Vegas!! It's a day trip from L.A. and I had an amazing time every time! Now to check Amsterdam and Paris off my list.
Thank you for stopping by!
Monday, April 10, 2017
How to use bath bombs?
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
To preserve or not to preserve... THAT is the question.
Since I have eczema I prefer to use products that only have ingredients that are derived from nature. But for the public, I reluctantly use a paraben-free preservative in my lotions to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. I feel that it is the proper thing to do for the safety of my customers. Since I haven't found proven data on how effective natural preservatives are, I choose not to use them.
In my research, I have concluded that I only need to use them in products that contain water. So the only product that contains a preservative is my lotion. I make my lotion under sterile conditions and I also a paraben-free preservative to prevent harmful bacteria growth and to extend the shelf life. I only use the recommended amount (0.1-0.5% by weight) and I list all of the ingredients on the label.
I believe that honesty is the best policy when running a business and wanted to be transparent about this issue so that my consumers can make informed decision about my products. As I said early, lotions are the only product at this time that contains a preservative. So my soaps, butters, lipbalms, bath fizzies, etc. are free of preservatives!
Where do you stand on the issue of preservatives in cosmetics?
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
SMOODZDEE TUESDEE!!!
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Closed my physical shop
Ok, I will fill you in...
As of February 28, I closed my shop on Main Street in Laurel, MD. :( Having my shop was an eye opening experience. I enjoyed most of the time I spent here an will miss everyone I met. Many factors led me to that decision that I had been contemplating for a few months. Lack of traffic and a budget for marketing were the main reasons. I've learned that it is a requirement to be better prepared overall.
I would like to add that I am NOT going out of business. I am going back to focusing on my online websites. For those that are skeptical about shopping online, I would like to point out a few things that may put you at ease:
* my sites are secure (I use godaddy to protect Smoodz.com)
* shipping is reasonable ($5 for orders under $25 and FREE for orders $25 and over)
And,
*if you are local, just send me an email and we can work out payment and delivery!
Thank you to all that showed your support!!! I truly appreciate each and every one of you.
Please follow me on facebook and twitter @smoodzsme so we can keep in touch. And my sites are
www.smoodz.com
And
www.etsy.com/smoodz
Smooches!!
www.smoodz.com
Twitter and Facebook
@smoodzsme
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Make your next bath a spa experience!!
Taking baths are beneficial to your physical and mental health...and your budget!! Had a long day or week? Why go to one of those expensive day spas when you can wind down with a nice, warm, soothing bath in the comfort of your own home. Studies have shown that taking a bath lowers the blood pressure and releases toxins. While you're in there you can release stress, reflect and possibly clear your mind to focus on things to come. You can add a bath bomb to soften your water, moisturize you skin and uplift your mood. Baths also promote a good night's sleep so that you can recharge and better manage your upcoming day.
If the kids are at Grandma's and hubby is out for poker night,
Here's a recipe for your at-home spa time:
- Draw warm bath. (Not too hot though, super hot water can raise the blood pressure and defeat the purpose)
- Light a scented soy candle
- Turn on your favorite music
- Drop in an inexpensive scented bath bomb
- Get in and soak!!
Friday, July 20, 2012
Vision Board Update/Shop update
I have been researching marketing strategies and plan to implement some of them in the near future. Hopefully, something will catch the eye of my target market and get them to come in here soon. Because I am also toying with the idea of closing before I sink too far into debt. :(
Anyways, I am trying to stay positive and generate ideas that will help my business. But, hey!!! At least I checked off a goal. I really feel like I'm giving it my best effort and if this one closes, I will definitely be putting "open my own shop" back on my vision board. I will not give up. Just re-evaluate and try again.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
I opened a small shop!
But I am becoming more positive as the weeks go by since I have been able to make enough sales to enable me to continue renting. And today I moved to a space that is a lot more visible. The rent is a little more but I think it will be worth it.
It also turns out to be a little bit bigger so I will have to get to work making more products to fill it up. Anyways, I have a lot more traffic now. Ok! Gotta go! I have a customer......!