How to Boost your Skin Barrier Function Naturally

How Stress Can Trigger Skin Issues Such as Acne

Ah, acne. The bane of our existences. If only we could banish it with the wave of a wand...but did you know that reducing stress can aid in lessening acne production?

The relationship between stress and acne is complex and multifaceted, involving various physiological and hormonal mechanisms. While stress alone may not directly cause acne, it can contribute to its development and exacerbate existing skin conditions.

Research reveals that times of emotional stress can cause higher levels of certain hormones, such as glucocorticoids and adrenal androgens that bring on acne. Stress related responses in the body also release neuroactive chemicals that can trigger inflammatory skin conditions and slow down the wound healing process by as much as 40%. 

Founder, Chef Jennifer Sanford's lifelong curiosity with clean, handmade skin care originated during her teens in a desperate effort to combat her chronic cystic acne. After countless attempts with over-the-counter and prescription medications, Jennifer discovered a solution she never anticipated…in her kitchen.  Using only whole foods, she crafted treatments that greatly reduced the frequency and severity of her outbreaks. These dramatic results sparked a life-long passion for wellness and curiosity about natural ingredients in skin care. 

 
Here at S H I M M E R  C H E F, we highlight the vital connection between the gut, skin and brain. We harness the power of microbiome-strengthening nutrition, formulating products that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. You'll feel a positive influence in your mood and emotional well-being!

FEED YOUR SKIN 

 

BOOST

YOUR SHIMMER BY NOURISHING, HYDRATING AND FORTIFYING YOUR SKIN, SCALP & HAIR

Cacao Creme Face & Neck Plaster

Packed with moisturizing antibacterial fatty acids and oils from freshly pressed avocados, this plaster nourishes your skin, leaving it firm, supple, and radiant. Chia seeds' potent nutrients help strengthen the skin and promote skin tightening and shimmer

HAIR  S H I M M E R  SET
Remove scalp imbalances and impurities and prevent premature graying and dandruff while creating strong and silky hair!

Steevi's Spotlight

How to Boost your Skin Barrier Function Naturally

Maintaining a healthy skin barrier function is essential for overall skin health - after all, your skin barrier is your first line of defense, protecting you from the outside world! Your skin acts as a protective shield against environmental stressors while also playing an important role in immune defense and constantly working to retain moisture.

Focusing on a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support skin health is key to boosting your skin barrier. Keep in mind that nutrients applied onto the skin are just as important as the nutrients we consume. Essential fatty acids help fortify the skin barrier by providing building blocks for lipid production, while antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables and powerhouse spices such as turmeric and cacao combat free radicals. These free radicals, if not addressed properly, can damage the skin barrier and lead to issues like acne or eczema. 

Additionally, staying mindful of the products you use on your skin and opting for more gentle, hydrating alternatives to avoid harsh chemicals that strip the skin of its natural oils is key to healthy skin barrier maintenance. 


S H I M M E R  C H E F products including Cacao Creme Face & Neck Plaster, Apple Cider Mignonette Vitamin C Accelerator and Citrus Cider Whip Hair & Scalp Plaster are formulated specifically to BOOST your shimmer with natural nourishing and hydrating ingredients like citrus fruits, natural butters and superfood spices! 
Written by Steevi McNeely, CNP & Health-Supportive Chef

 

S H I M M E R I N G  S A T I S F A C T I O N

POST S H I M M E R  COMPLETE
"S H I M M E R  C H E F Morning & Evening Balms hydrate my skin like no other moisturizer I've ever tried. They smell amazing and leave my skin feeling nourished with a natural glow! These balms are a must have in everyone's skin care routine."
- Sam

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES

Our Vitamin C Infusion Technique starts here: fermenting grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange and papaya peels!