Recognize the Functions and Types of Cleansers and Body Washes

Soap or cleanser itself has the main function of removing all the impurities from the top layer of our skin. It’s the first step in any skincare routine! By thoroughly cleansing the surface and pores, the other skincare components can then be absorbed and put to work. 

The form of soap varies, but we divide it into 2 most common ones, namely bar soap and liquid soap (body wash). Bar soaps are great for removing dirt and sweat emulsified on the surface of the skin and reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Liquid soaps have more or less the same function but often contain some combination of ingredients for specific skin problems. Examples include clogged pores or dry skin.

Each has its pluses and minuses. Bar soap is more environmentally friendly and economical, but improper placement can make it less hygienic. Liquid soap is more practical and hygienic however there is also the risk of producing plastic waste. So, the choice depends on your own preferences. Apart from the form, the composition of the soap also varies, some are oil-based (suitable for cleaning makeup) and water-based (easier to rinse off, suitable for combination/oily skin).

As a recommendation for gentle and eco-friendly cleansers, you can check out Serenitree’s natural bar soap and body wash!

Causes of Dry Skin After Showering

There’s more than one reason for dry skin after a shower! It starts with the duration of the shower and the temperature of the water. If we shower for too long, especially using hot water, we risk losing the natural oils on our skin. These natural oils are important for keeping the skin moisturized and healthy. Therefore, it’s best to shower for 10-15 minutes only and the right water temperature is no more than 38 degrees Celsius.

Another cause could be an incompatibility or allergy to the ingredients of the body wash and body lotion we use. Harsh chemicals like SLS and fragrances can dry out or even inflame the skin. Not only that, everyone has a different level of sensitivity. Even safe ingredients can still potentially cause a negative reaction. The solution? Consult, find out what works for you and do a patch test!

In addition, medical conditions such as eczema and dermatitis can be the cause. Medical conditions usually have specific routines and treatments, so make sure to follow the professional advice, Sereni-Trees! If you have very dry skin, even shower gel is not enough to provide hydration. Extra care is needed such as the use of lotion afterwards.

In conclusion, let’s not forget to be careful when looking for skincare products. Make sure the products we use are BPOM registered and contain safe ingredients. Also, adjust your skincare routine to your skin condition and environment!

3 Dry-Causing Ingredients in Body Wash

Usually, we have heard of harsh ingredients like phthalates, SLS, and parabens. But this time Serenitree will spill some other ingredients that you might not know before! We also have to be aware of ingredients such as:

• Propylene Glycol (anti-freeze):

It can cause immunotoxicity, respiratory toxicity, and skin or sensory organ toxicity (eye irritation, skin irritation, dry skin, removal of natural skin oils).

• Triclosan (antibacterial and anti-fungal agent):

In addition to being irritating, it has been linked to the development of allergies in children and if mixed with chlorine in tap water, can be a carcinogen (cancer-causing). Hence its restricted use in cosmetics in Canada and Japan!

• DMDM hydantoin (antimicrobial)

Exposure to this ingredient can cause irritation and formaldehyde allergy!

To be on the safe side, you should always double check the ingredient label before using a skincare product. Make sure there are no allergies and all ingredients are safe to use! Better safe than sorry!

The Importance of pH Level

Indeed, there are so many things that we must pay attention to in order to avoid the risk of skin irritation. Skincare ingredients are one thing, but there’s more. Why is pH level important? The natural pH balance of human skin is around 4 to 6, which means the skin is mildly acidic. pH is important for maintaining the skin’s barrier function, protecting against harmful bacteria, pollutants, and maintaining moisture.

If we choose a body wash with a pH level that is too high or low, the risks include: Loss of natural oils, disruption of the skin’s pH balance (leading to irritation and dryness), more sensitive skin, damage to the lipid layer, and decreased ability to regenerate the skin. 

As a recommendation, you should choose a body wash according to your skin condition, Sereni-Trees (For more information, please refer here).

Can Body Wash Cause Dry Skin? 

The answer to that question is yes, body wash can be one of the causes of dry skin! To summarize, this is the “culprit” component of irritation and dry skin:

• Harsh chemicals in body wash (SLS, parabens, fragrances, etc.)
• Allergies and sensitivities to ingredients
• pH level

Meanwhile, some contributing factors also include showering for too long, too hot water temperature, lack of lotion use, hot weather, exfoliating too often, and medical conditions. As a solution, it is important that we choose a body wash with safe ingredients, such as Shea Butter and Vegetable Glycerin. Although natural ingredients, they are no less effective at nourishing the skin!

Pst, another secret tip, after showering instead of rubbing with a towel, you should dry it by patting. This way, the moisture will be better preserved and the risk of skin irritation/dryness will be minimized! Hope this article helps, Sereni-Trees!

The post Can Body Wash Cause Dry Skin? appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

Wow, so what is the impact on us if it is not handled as soon as possible? Let’s see until the end!

Microplastics & Microbeads

As the name implies, microplastics are small plastic particles, perhaps 0.2 inches to 5 mm in size. The origin of these particles can be from plastic waste disposal or can come from the degradation process of larger plastics such as plastic bottles or shopping plastics. Now, apart from that, we also need to be careful because there is also such a thing as microbeads.

Microbeads are small granules that can be found in various products such as skincare, toothpaste, facial scrubs, and many more. Basically, microbeads and microplastics are both made from plastic! It’s just that the difference is that microbeads are made of these materials: 

• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
• Polypropylene (PPp
• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
• Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
• Polyamides or Nylon

To prevent its use, we can be careful in reading the content label on skincare products. Make sure to avoid the ingredient names above, Sereni-Trees! 

Are Microplastics Harmful to Health?

We can’t deny that microplastics are now widespread even beyond skincare products themselves. Perhaps it’s because of their almost invisible size that the impact of microplastics goes unnoticed for most people. The effects themselves can vary from individual to individual. Those with sensitive skin, pregnant women, nursing mothers, or those with certain medical conditions may feel the impact the most, such as skin irritation. This is because microplastics are abrasive (can cause microtears). For example, in scrub products, if you are not careful in sorting out the product content, the textured exfoliator particles could be made of microplastics! Constant and intense exposure can certainly create irritation and inflammation, even if our skin is not sensitive.

In addition, these tiny particles can be absorbed and enter the body through many things ranging from ingestion (food/drink), air, microbeads (skincare use, toothpaste, and many more!). The side effects? It depends, it could be inflammation, hormone disruption, and organ damage. How scary is that?

In conclusion, yes, microplastics have the potential to harm our health especially if we are exposed to them frequently. Therefore, we ourselves need to be extra careful and start committing to reducing the use of this material in our daily lives!

Impacts on Ecosystems and the Environment

Here’s one impact that is so large-scale, yet often overlooked! Have you ever thought about the impact on the environment around you? Most people would probably focus on the side effects to themselves. 

Serenitree will spill the full information on why microplastics have a negative impact on the environment:  

• When we use skincare products or bathe in products that contain plastic microbeads, these particles can be carried away by water and end up polluting the environment, including river and ocean water. 

• Studies have shown that the fish we eat are contaminated with microplastics and the toxic substances they carry. This means that these particles could be ingested by marine animals and eventually end up on our dinner tables.

• In addition, 90% of the world’s table salt or sea salt is contaminated with microplastics. On average, humans consume about 2,000 microplastics each year just from salt consumption, assuming a daily consumption of 10 grams of salt. Scientists found about 20 microplastics in every 10 grams of human faeces.

• Microplastics released into the wild will absorb pollutants and chemical toxins such as pesticides, oil, and other harmful chemicals released into the environment. 

What a domino effect! Without even realising it, we are already affected by these invisible particles. It’s certainly not just a skincare-specific issue, but we can’t deny that skincare is a factor! If we don’t start caring from now on, won’t the negative effects affect us eventually?

How We Identify & Avoid Microplastics

Of course, it’s quite difficult for us to stop using products with microplastics altogether! The harsh reality is that these particles are in almost every product we use every day. However, it is possible to avoid them! The ideal way is to make a commitment to yourself first. The small step of checking skincare ingredient labels is a great start. Do an audit of the products you’ve used, are there any microplastic components in them? If there are, make sure not to use them anymore and choose alternatives. 

We can also choose to avoid the daily use of plastic. For example: Bringing your own shopping bags, using paper straws, and recycling. Recycling in Indonesia is not that difficult! Simply visit the nearest waste bank in your area.

The final solution is to switch to eco-friendly products and skincare. There are now many local eco-friendly brands, such as Serenitree. Serenitree’s natural skincare is made from natural ingredients so it certainly does not contain harmful particles such as microbeads. Instead, we use natural ingredients such as shea butter and essential oils that are effective without negative side effects so it’s safe for everyone (sensitive skin, pregnant women, mothers, children above 3 & 6 years old)! In addition, Serenitree also supports the recycling movement, you can drop off your empty Serenitree bottles and get additional vouchers (more information on social media/website)!

It turns out that difficult does not mean impossible! Slowly but surely, we can start the change within ourselves. Moreover, there are more and more alternatives and tips that we can do to reduce. So there are no more excuses, right? Let’s start being aware and prioritise health together!

The post Get to know the dangers of microplastics in skincare! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

The Importance of Switching to Clean Formulation Skincare

The purpose of using skincare is not just to be “pretty”. Skincare also aims to provide protection and nourishment to the skin while keeping the user and the environment safe. By embracing Clean Formulation Skincare, Serenitree aims to be a way for skincare users to start the journey towards a healthier and more natural skincare routine.

There are 2 types of benefits that we can feel, the first we can see from the short term. Examples such as:

• Avoid irritation

With gentle and harmless ingredients, there is less chance of irritation, inflammation, allergies, or other skin problems. 

• Maintain overall body health

Healthy skin is one of the factors that support mental and other physical health. Our body can be well protected and free from discomfort that may be caused by skin problems.

• Naturally bright skin

Without the need to use specific products, healthy skin can exude a natural glow! Especially with minimal exposure to harmful chemicals.

Meanwhile, in the long run, we can contribute to the health of ourselves and the environment:

• Reducing waste and pollution

Skincare ingredients that are free of harmful chemicals and natural tend to be safer for the environment. So we don’t have to worry about polluting the environment! 

• Support sustainable living

Clean formulation skincare is more than just a way of treating skin. It’s practically become part of our lifestyle. Why, because we’re becoming more conscious of our negative impact on the environment and reducing our digital carbon footprint.

That being said, for Sereni-Trees who want to convert to Clean formulation skincare, remember that we are not only bringing good to ourselves but to each other!

Serenitree’s role in supporting clean beauty

Actually, the terms “Clean Beauty” and “Clean Formulation Skincare” are almost similar! The difference is only in the focus where one side focuses more on the formulation of skincare while the other side focuses on the entire beauty industry. Serenitree is a natural skincare brand that cares about the environment and the health of its users. Of course we focus on both!

As proof of this, our brand prepares all skincare elements to be supportive. Starting from the ingredients that come directly from natural ingredients such as Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Calendula Extract, and Licorice Root that are produced locally trusted. Automatically, this process also contributes to advancing the local economy! Even though it is natural and local, Sereni-Trees does not need to worry because all the ingredients have been professionally processed and formulated (BPOM registered).

Furthermore, Serenitree also wants to encourage sustainable and eco-friendly living habits. All of our skincare containers and packaging are recyclable which is safe for the environment. In collaboration with Kertabumi Recycling Centre, we also support the movement of recycling every packaging so that it can produce useful products instead of being wasted and polluting the environment. For those who are interested, you can see the details of the recycling programme on Serenitree’s social media!

Last but not least, Serenitree wants you to be involved with the process of making these natural skincare products. We provide several workshops that can be attended by everyone, especially those who are interested in making natural “home-made” skincare (details will usually be shared via social media). The aim is to bring awareness on how important and beneficial natural ingredients are. With this, you don’t have to hesitate anymore if you want to switch to a natural skincare brand!

Tips for Switching to “Clean Formulation Skincare”

Switching routines is never easy, let alone changing your lifestyle! Relax, it’s still possible as long as we take it slow. Serenitree will provide some tips that you can follow here:

• Recognise the dangerous ingredients

Simply put, we need to research which ingredients are bad for our skin. Examples include parabens and phthalates. Apart from harsh chemicals, we also need to know the allergens that can cause allergies on the skin. To know this, we should do a lot of research, patch tests, or consult a dermatologist directly.

• Know the ingredients that matter for problem skin

As opposed to harmful ingredients, we also need to know our skin condition and what natural ingredients are suitable to treat it. For example, Aloe vera is great for soothing inflammation while Shea butter is suitable for moisturising dry skin. No need to worry, there are always natural alternatives!

• Start changing from basic skincare

We need to start with skincare basics because these are the products we use the most on a daily basis. It is the routine that can be the judgement of whether a product is suitable or not. Examples of basic skincare could be body wash, body lotion, sunscreen, and similar.

• Make a gradual transition

It’s best to change your skincare routine gradually so your skin can get used to it. In other words, so that your skin doesn’t get “shocked” by the sudden change. This is because some skin reactions can cause breakouts!

• Pay attention to skin reactions

Don’t forget to pay attention to skin reactions when you switch skincare products or change your routine. Reactions such as rashes, itching, or redness are fairly immediate, signalling a product incompatibility. Therefore, if anything uncomfortable happens to your skin, stop using it immediately.

Well, those are some tips that you can follow if you are interested in moving to natural skincare or clean formulation skincare. For the record, if you have sensitive skin / skin conditions and for certain age groups, you should immediately consult a professional dermatologist!

The post What Is “Clean Formulation Skincare” in Serenitree Products? appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

Remember moms, choosing the right and safe skincare is very important for the health of mom and baby!

Skincare ingredients can be absorbed through the skin

Skincare absorption does not only apply to pregnant women or mothers, even to people in general when applying a skincare product on the skin, most of the product will be absorbed and enter the bloodstream. The skin is an organ that can absorb certain substances, especially if the ingredients have small molecules that allow them to penetrate the surface layer of the skin. Absorption depends on the chemical properties of the ingredients, the size of the molecules, and the condition and health of the individual’s skin.

Of course, if the skincare we used contains safe ingredients, this will not be a problem and can work optimally to deal with skin problems. But it will be a different story if someone is allergic to an ingredient or for breastfeeding moms because it can affect breast milk for babies. This is why we are always required to do patch tests and research, is the use of this skincare safe for our current condition?

As for if moms are not careful in choosing skincare, the risks that will occur include: Skin irritation and hormone disruption for the mother, as well as allergic reactions and health problems for the baby. This will definitely have a negative impact on both! What can we do to avoid this problem?

Breastfeeding Moms Should Avoid These Ingredients!

The first step for breastfeeding to choose safe skincare is to pay attention to the skincare ingredients. Actually there are still many, but as an example, here are 3 ingredients that we should AVOID:

• Retinol: This is a type of vitamin A that is fat-soluble. This type of vitamin A can accumulate in body fat and overuse can turn it toxic. While there isn’t too much data on its impact on babies, doctors still recommend that we avoid this skincare during pregnancy and breastfeeding. One factor is because it is known that oral retinoids that we take can cause babies to be born with physical defects!

• Parabens: These act as “preservatives” in skincare to prevent mold from forming. However, this ingredient is at risk of disrupting the mother’s hormonal balance because it can resemble the hormone estrogen.

• Oxybenzone: This ingredient can be found in chemical sunscreen products. Some of the risks include irritation and hormone disruption in the mother, as well as allergic reactions in the baby. While using sunscreen is a must, make sure to choose one with safe ingredients!

For more complete information about the content of skincare harmful to pregnant and breastfeeding, you can refer to this Serenitree article. 

Choose Safe Skincare Ingredients

Don’t worry, choosing safe skincare isn’t as hard as it seems! There are always safer alternatives to natural ingredients. Some options we can consider are:

• Calendula Extract: This ingredient is derived from marigold flowers and works to soothe the skin, is anti-inflammatory, stimulates skin cell regeneration, and provides relaxation for the skin.

• Vegetable Glycerin: This ingredient is usually derived from vegetable oils and has the ability to draw moisture into the skin. Other benefits include protecting the skin from infection and accelerating wound healing.

• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is great not only for skin, but for hair and nails too! For those who are experiencing hives, this ingredient can provide relief while softening and increasing the skin barrier safely.

• Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fatty acids that can improve skin elasticity and leave skin hydrated and soft.

Some of the examples above are natural ingredients that are safer and less risky. Remember, we still have to be vigilant and test before use! It is even better to consult your doctor or skin specialist to avoid negative side effects. After all, even though the ingredients are natural, everyone’s allergies and sensitivities are different.

If you’re interested in trying Sereni-Trees’ natural ingredients that are safe for pregnant women, you can definitely try Serenitree’s bodycare range! Our hand cream, body wash and body lotion are available in “calming” and “brightening” variants. Of course, they are breastfeeding/baby friendly and safe for children aged 3 years (calming variant) to 7 years (brightening variant) and above.

Steps to Choose the Right & Safe Skincare for Breastfeeding Moms

Understanding how to distinguish safe skincare for breastfeeding mothers from products is very important. One of the first steps is to check the label on the skincare product. Products that are safe for breastfeeding mothers often have labels that state “safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers”, “no harmful chemicals”, or “hypoallergenic”. In addition, it is also important to check the ingredient list on skincare products and ensure that there are no harmful ingredients that we should avoid during the pregnancy/breastfeeding process.

Choosing skincare products that are safe and friendly to your skin and breastmilk is equally important! Make sure the product has been proven safe through trials and has been thoroughly tested (BPOM registered). Before using the product in its entirety, do a patch test first on a small area of skin to check for possible allergic reactions.

You can also research from trusted resources such as official websites of dermatologists, breastfeeding mom forums, and references from health organizations. That being said, always make sure to verify the authenticity of the source of information before making a decision by consulting a professional!

We need to remember, what we use can be absorbed and affect the content of breast milk! So, by paying attention to these steps, as pregnant women and mothers, we can still maintain healthy skin and baby’s health!

The post Choose Safe Skincare for Breastfeeding Moms! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

Let’s raise awareness of harmful ingredients in skincare!

What is Mercury in Skincare?

Of course, having fair skin is the dream of most people, according to the beauty standards in each region. Sometimes, it’s that “obsession” that makes us susceptible to mercury skincare traps.

Simply put, mercury is a harmful ingredient in skincare that works to whiten our skin. It stops the production of skin pigments, so results are instantaneous. However, behind its spectacular effects, lurks a danger to our health! Some of the negative impacts on our health include:

• Skin Irritation

Mercury can cause skin irritation such as redness, itching, and even chemical burns to the skin.

• Skin Pigment Changes

Long-term use of skincare products containing mercury can result in skin discoloration, either lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation). Sometimes these changes are almost permanent and difficult to overcome even with medical treatment!

• Neurological Disorders

Long-term exposure to mercury can cause disorders of the neurological system, affecting brain function and the nervous system. Examples include: Decreased sense of taste and coordination; impaired vision and speech.

• Immune System Disorders

Mercury can also affect the immune system, increasing the risk of developing allergies or impaired immune response.

• Impact on Internal Organ Health

Consumption or absorption of high amounts of mercury can have a negative impact on the internal organs of the human body, such as brain, heart, lung, and kidney damage.

• Increased Risk of Skin Cancer

Mercury is a carcinogen, which means it can trigger or cause skin cancer.

Are these negative impacts worth the temporary instant effects of mercury? Surely not! Therefore, we must avoid the negative effects of exposure to this toxic substance before they occur.

Characteristics of Skincare with Mercury Content

The increasing awareness of skincare should be coupled with the knowledge of harmful skincare ingredients! Recognizing the characteristics of mercury in skincare is the first step that can protect us from exposure. From texture, odor, and skin reaction, make sure to check carefully:

• Strange & pungent odor: Skincare products containing mercury often have an unusual or pungent smell, different from the general scent of skincare products.

• Rough & sticky texture: Mercury in skincare can cause the texture of the product to become rough or feel sticky when we apply it to the skin. 

• Increased skin sensitivity: One of the signs of using skincare with mercury is increased skin sensitivity to sunlight. This indicates a skin irritation or discomfort reaction.

• Hot & itchy skin reactions: Mercury exposure can trigger hot, burning, or itchy skin reactions after use.

• The product is not well sealed: Skincare that has no seal or open packaging can signal possible manipulation or lack of product safety.

• The product turns dark in color: Skincare products that initially have a bright or stable color may turn dark or discolored (gray).

• Products without the BPOM mark & without clear ingredient labeling: Skincare that does not have a clear ingredient label or BPOM mark can be a sign that the product is not officially registered or contains harmful ingredients such as mercury.

It’s not that hard to be careful before choosing skincare, don’t forget, prevention is much easier than cure!

How to safely choose mercury-free skincare

From the characteristics above, the safe step to avoid mercury skincare is to check whether it is registered and registered with BPOM. Look at the number on the packaging and check online at cekbpom.pom.go.id. From here we can also check the authenticity of the product as well as other details such as the number, product name, registrant, and place of production of the product. If Sereni-Trees finds counterfeit products, we can also report by filling out the complaint form to BPOM.

The second way is to check the content of the label on the skincare. If there is writing like this: Mercury, Mercurous chloride, Calomel, Mercurio, Mercurio chloride, make sure we avoid it! Unclear ingredient labels can also be one reason we are suspicious of skincare products. Anyway, we must really know every ingredient in the skincare that we will use.

The last method can be by paying attention to the texture and smell as well as the reaction. That being said, as a “commoner”, this may be more difficult. Therefore, we recommend that you buy the product directly from a trusted manufacturer/store and consult an expert!

Natural Ingredients as a Safe “Skin Lightening” Alternative

Instead of sacrificing our health for an “instant white” effect, let’s opt for natural lightening alternatives! Here are some natural alternatives that you can try to brighten your skin safely:

• Licorice Extract (Sweet Root): Licorice contains compounds that can reduce hyperpigmentation and naturally brighten the skin.

• Vitamin C: Natural vitamin C as found in fruits like oranges, lemons, or kiwis can brighten the skin and reduce dark spots.

• Papaya Extract: The papain enzyme found in papaya can remove dead skin cells and give the skin a brighter look.

• Bearberry Extract: Bearberry contains arbutin which can brighten and even out skin tone.

• Rosehip Oil: This natural oil rich in antioxidants and vitamin C can brighten and reduce signs of aging on the skin.

• Ginseng Extract: Ginseng can improve blood circulation, thus helping the skin look brighter and more radiant.

• Niacinamide/Vitamin B3: Brightens the skin by reducing pigment production and enhancing the skin’s natural radiance.

• Natural Alpha Arbutin: Inhibits melanin production, reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation on the skin.

But we must remember, these natural ingredients can provide benefits but not instantly. Slow, steady and safe, that’s how natural skincare works! You also don’t have to search anymore because Serenitree also provides safe “brightening” variants. Let’s try Serenitree’s hand cream, body wash, and body lotion for naturally bright skin!

The post Recognize the Characteristics of Mercury in Skincare! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

Green tea extract is not only known as a refreshing drink, but also for its amazing benefits for the skin. Its high antioxidant content makes it a popular ingredient in beauty products. Let’s delve deeper into the wonders of green tea extract for healthy, glowing skin!

Origin & Positive Effects on the Body 

Before we delve further into the benefits of green tea extract, know the origin of green tea! Not just a drink, green tea is also a symbol of traditional heritage. The origin of green tea can be traced back thousands of years, to ancient China during the Shang Dynasty (around 1500 BC). Derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, this tea was first discovered by accident when the leaves fell into hot water. It was this process of heating the water that first produced the tea drink that later became popular.

Not only does it contain no sugar, but it also contains no fat, making it a drink we can enjoy without any health risks. In addition, green tea can give our bodies a variety of positive effects! This is one of the reasons why it’s so popular even today!

Some examples of the positive effects on the body include:

• Maintain Heart Health: Several studies have shown that green tea can reduce the risk of heart disease. The antioxidant content in green tea can improve blood vessel function and reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease!

• Improves Brain Function: The caffeine in green tea not only provides an energy boost, but can also improve brain function, concentration, and enhance mood and alertness.

• Weight Loss: Some studies show that green tea can boost the body’s metabolism, thus aiding in the fat-burning process. But we still have to support it with a healthy diet and exercise routine!

• Protection from Cancer: Although more research is needed, some preliminary studies suggest that the antioxidant content of green tea may provide protection against the risk of some cancers, such as breast, prostate, and bowel cancer.

Wow, who would have thought that the effects of green tea on our health would be so great! But don’t forget Sereni-Trees, don’t just rely on this tea. We must also maintain a balanced and healthy life routine. Everything must be interconnected to maintain a healthy body!

5 Benefits of Green Tea Extract for Skin, a Natural Source of Antioxidants

One of the benefits of green tea is not spared from improving skin health. Afterall, green tea extract contains several important nutrients for our skin, namely: Antioxidants, Polyphenols, Caffeine, Vitamin E, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), and Amino Acid. Each ingredient has its own benefits, from reducing skin swelling to regenerating skin cells! More details on the benefits of green tea extract for skin:

• Controlling Excess Oil Production on the Skin 

Green tea extract can regulate excess oil production on the skin and maintain the skin’s moisture balance without clogging the pores. This is great news for those with oily or acne-prone skin!

• Conceal Fine Lines and Wrinkles 

The antioxidant content in green tea reduces free radical damage, which in turn can disguise fine lines and wrinkles on the skin. Suitable as an anti-aging product of course.

• Soothes Infection or Inflamed Skin 

Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm inflamed or infected skin. It can also have a calming effect on skin conditions such as acne or irritation.

• Protection from Free Radicals & UV Rays 

Powerful antioxidants in green tea extract such as polyphenols protect the skin from free radical damage and UV exposure. This is beneficial for preventing premature aging and skin damage caused by environmental factors. But it still needs the help of sunscreen protection too!

• Boost Skin Moisture with Vitamin E 

Vitamin E contained in green tea extract can increase moisture in the skin. Believe it or not, your skin will feel softer, healthier and well-hydrated throughout the day!

With so many benefits for our skin, it’s no wonder green tea extract is so popular in the skincare world! From creams, hand creams, toners, to serums and soaps, we can find green tea extract as one of the ingredients. Curious about its benefits? Let’s try it first, Sereni-Trees!

Ingredients of Green Tea Extract in Serenitree Hand Cream

Hand skin is one part of the skin that is often exposed to various external factors that can affect its health. Daily activities such as hand washing, sanitizer use, contact with chemicals, sun exposure, and extreme weather can make hand skin vulnerable to damage. What’s more, this area of skin has a thinner layer of skin than the rest of the body!

But don’t worry, that’s the reason why Serenitree Hand Cream is packed with Green Tea Extract! We want to capture the optimal benefits of green tea on the skin that needs the most attention. Especially for the anti-aging variant, this hand cream is also complete with Avocado Extract & Niacinamide. These two ingredients serve to moisturize, protect and reduce inflammation on the skin, triple protection! 

If you are curious or want to try the benefits of green tea extract, this hand cream can be one of the choices. In addition, those of you with sensitive skin don’t need to worry because all the ingredients of this hand cream are natural. Even pregnant women as well as children aged 3 years and over are also safe to use!

Let’s take care of our skin with the wonders of green tea extract! Don’t forget to balance it with a healthy lifestyle to keep our skin healthy.

The post 5 Benefits of Green Tea Extract for Skin! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

To find out, make sure to read this article until the end!

The Importance of Paying Attention to the Skincare We Use

As a mom who is pregnant or breastfeeding, being careful in choosing skincare products is key. Why is this important? Nowadays, many skincare products contain chemicals that can pose a risk to the health of the mother and fetus. 

We also need to remember that everything we consume and apply will enter and be absorbed into the body. Then the chemicals will reach the fetus through the placenta or into breast milk. This can certainly disrupt the hormonal system, damage fetal development, increase the risk of fetal abnormalities, and many other problems! In addition, choosing skincare that is not suitable for the skin condition of pregnant or breastfeeding mothers can also worsen skin problems or even cause allergic reactions. This can also disrupt the mother’s comfort!

Therefore, to avoid negative risks, it is important to pay attention to safe skincare for pregnant and breastfeeding women!

Avoid these 10 Ingredients, Moms!

How do we choose the right skincare moms? The first thing we have to do is look at the ingredients of the skincare product label. Make sure to avoid these 10 ingredients:

1. Oxybenzone: This chemical is often found in sunscreens. Some research suggests that oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. This can certainly harm the fetus!

2. Parabens: Parabens are used as preservatives in many cosmetic products. However, there are concerns that parabens can disrupt the hormonal system and affect fetal development.

3. Hydroxy Acids (including Glycolic Acid): The use of hydroxy acids in high doses may pose a greater risk of skin irritation in pregnant women due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.

4. Retinoids: These substances are generally useful for treating acne and skin aging. However, we should avoid using them during pregnancy as they can cause problems with fetal development.

5. Hydroquinone: This ingredient is usually useful for treating skin pigmentation problems, but its use during pregnancy also poses a potential risk to the fetus.

6. Benzoyl Peroxide: This ingredient is useful for treating acne. Although the use of benzoyl peroxide in small doses is not harmful, we still have to be careful because it may affect blood flow to the fetus.

7. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: This substance is often found in cleaning products. Its use may cause irritation to sensitive skin during pregnancy.

8. Phthalates: Studies have shown that exposure to phthalates during pregnancy can cause reproductive and hormonal problems.

9. Salicylic Acid: The use of high doses of salicylic acid (often found in acne skin care products) should be avoided by moms, because it can interfere with fetal development!

10. Formaldehyde: This chemical is commonly found in fragrances, polish, or hair care products. Exposure to formaldehyde while pregnant can be a potential risk to the fetus.

These are just 10 of the many skincare ingredients out there! So, it’s important to do more research to choose safe skincare for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Additional tips: To be on the safe side, consult your obstetrician and dermatologist and choose products labeled “safe for pregnant women” or “safe for breastfeeding mothers”!

Choose Safe Skincare Ingredients for Pregnant & Breastfeeding Mothers

Surely the process of pregnancy and breastfeeding can make the skin often dry and problematic huh? That’s why we still need to take care of our skin carefully! Take it easy, although there are many ingredients that we should avoid, there are also other alternative ingredients! 

• For safe alternative ingredients as moisturizers, we can choose Coconut Oil and Cocoa Butter. 
• For acne problems, we can turn to natural ingredients full of antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Green Tea or Tea Tree Oil. 
• To boost skin moisture, choose a serum that contains Grapeseed Oil, Niacinamide, Vitamin B3, and Green Tea Extract.
• Avoid chemical sunscreen! We recommend choosing a sunscreen with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide. 
• For face masks, choose natural ingredient options such as Aloe Vera, Papaya, Olive Oil, Avocado, Honey and Yogurt masks.

It turns out that there are also many choices! We can still skincare safely, stay glowing while maintaining our baby’s health too. But remember, do your research and consult a professional first!

Natural Skincare as a Safe Alternative

Although not always, natural skincare can be one of the alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding! This is because the formulas tend to be gentler (gentle) and do not contain harmful ingredients. So it’s still effective and safe!

One of the safe skincare brands for pregnant and breastfeeding moms includes Serenitree! Complete with bodycare variants from hand cream to body wash, all our products contain natural ingredients. For example: Shea butter, Vegetable Glycerine, Natural Alpha Arbutin and various essential oils (to provide therapeutic effects and aroma) such as Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Lavender Oil, Grapefruit Oil and so on. Certainly free from toxic content such as SLS, Phthalates, and Parabens.

Aside from being safe for pregnant and breastfeeding moms, this brand can also be used by children aged 3 years and above and those with sensitive skin! However, we must do our research and do a patch test before use. Again, everyone has different skin conditions, including sensitivity. Keep in mind that we must remain wise for the safety of mom and baby!

For those who are curious, you can read the full content of Serenitree bodycare on our website! Remember to stay healthy, moms!

The post Avoid 10 Harmful Ingredients, Check out Safe Skincare for Pregnant Women! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.