As we’re entering an era of hyper transparency, a lot of old truths and some new ones are coming to light, for example the benefits of a purely plant-based diet, the truth about NASA and the information that is being withheld etc. In line with that, the issue of water fluoridation is definitely something that needs to be re-examined culturally and governmentally. According to the NHS, it is “a safe and effective public health measure”, but what exactly does that mean? There have been a fair few recent reports that fluoride is a neurotoxin that damages or dampens your pineal gland.
Located in the center of the brain, the pineal gland responsible for melatonin synthesis and also helps convert signals between our nervous and endocrine systems. Melatonin itself is thought to act as a neuro-protector that could play a role in the aging process and Alzheimer’s, so when it is affect up by things like fluoride, you can imagine the impact it might have.
Drinking bottled water to avoid this is one thing, but what about toothpaste? I had the chance to test out LEBON’s organic and natural whitening dentifrice “Le White”, specifically Menthe Douce & Thé Vert. I have to say, it is without a doubt the tastiest toothpaste I have ever experienced. The history of the brand goes back to Monaco in 2014 where it was created by sea and nature lovers Stephanie, an Art Historian and professional Photographer along with her husband Richard, Pharmacist MD in Dermatology. That definitely explains the refined palate that the duo created, and the most important element – a non-ending “free of” list: “cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfates, fluoride, titanium dioxide…”
You can explore more about the ingredients here.
This month, particularly considering how the cold affects the skin, I wanted to spotlight the Men’s Exfoliating Mask from Optiat which is vegan, sustainable and certified organic. Unlike most masks at this competitive price point (£17.99), this involves a little bit of prep by mixing the product to form a paste. In my experience, these tend to be the best types of masks as they activate on the skin as opposed to during the production process. The experience is actually really re-vitalising, especially in comparison to some of the other charcoal based masks. The tone is also a very natural organic dark green coming mostly from the unloved hemp husks. The entire process feels really organic and leaves the skin invigorated afterwards.
To compliment, and in the brutal cold, organic and ethical skincare brand Odylique has an incredible avocado 24-Hour Replenishing Cream which acts as a deep night moisturiser or rich day cream (depending on your day!) programmed to diminish lines using the most famous fruit in the world. Extracts of sea buckthorn and horsetail promote skin regeneration whilst the cold-pressed avocado and olive oils provide protein, minerals and anti-oxidant vitamins. For such a deep moisturiser, I would normally recommend using it at night or on a day when you are not seeing as many people, as even though it is light, it does have a quite specific scent. It feels great on the lips too, so make sure you use it there if you get the chance!
On the note of scents, you may have noted the returning trend of Tuberose (pictured in the header). Once popular about 8-10 years ago, the cycle is back in full romantic swing. Gucci’s 2017 scent Rose is based with tuberose and one of the delights from Urban Apothecary’s candles and diffuser collection is the luxury tuberose scent. As a nocturnal human being myself, I always liked tuberose as it’s a mysterious botanical that releases its carnal, buttery scent at night. Of course with the candle, you can now bring this to life ay any time of the day. The experience is refined – as with all Urban Apothecary collections and it is made using 100% natural soy wax, hand poured in England by skilled artisans.
