You’ll Be Blown Away By How Easy It Is To Keep Your Skin Young With These 12 Natural Compounds.

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Greenfield Botanics serum
Anti-Aging, Article-new, Articles, Body, Diet & Nutrition, Lifestyle, Longevity & Age Reversal

I'd say one of the most popular posts I've ever written is this post about how to detox your home. But in that post, I didn't really fill you in too much on how to detox that incredibly important organ that covers your entire anatomy: your skin.

And I'll unabashedly admit it.

Despite getting plenty of compliments on my ability to pull off a youthful, Zoolander-esque Blue Steel model pose (as pictured above), I have officially quit my daily habit (that I have mentioned many a time on podcasts) of smearing extra virgin olive oil on my skin.

Huh? Olive oil?

OK, allow me to back things up a bit. For several years now, I've been simply smearing extra virgin olive oil on my face as a daily skin tonic and moisturizer. Not only that, but (as I've also mentioned on a few podcasts before) when I'm traveling and staying in a hotel, I'll actually call down to the restaurant and have them hand-deliver olive oil to my room. If they ask “why”, I tell them I'm allergic to the lotion in the room and then proceed to smear my face and neck with the stuff. OK, OK, I'm not technically allergic to the lotion at hotels, but there's just something about smearing liquid estrogen and testosterone disruptors onto my skin that makes me squirm, so sue me.

Anyways, the hotel staff probably thinks I'm some strange, olive-oil fetish creep, and the rest of the folks around me simply think I smell like a giant, walking pizza.

But in this article you're going to discover why I have recently quit slathering olive oil on my skin, the other compounds that I now completely avoid getting anywhere near my skin, along with twelve natural ingredients proven to remove wrinkles, shrink cellulite, nourish connective tissue, fade scars, kill bad bacteria, and rejuvenate damaged skin, giving you a smooth, glowing complexion and much, much more.


The Dirty Dozen Of Cosmetics

Let's start here: ever heard of the “dirty dozen of cosmetics”?

That’s right…just like there’s a dirty dozen for produce, there are a plethora of ingredients in beauty products that aren’t exactly beautiful. In the US, research has shown that a significant portion of the over 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals, including carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, and hormone disruptors – including plasticizers, degreasers, and surfactants.

And I'm constantly shocked at the number of health-conscious folks who are unknowingly slapping, slathering, rubbing, spraying, spritzing and massaging these chemicals onto the skin, which readily soaks up these chemicals. You'd probably be surprised too if you flung open your bathroom cupboard and learned what was really inside that skin tonic, shampoo, or soap you bought at your local health foods store.

For more detailed information on the dirty dozen of cosmetics, you can check out this helpful Cosmetic Dirty Dozen background report, but in the meantime, I recommend you head to your bathroom cupboard, inspect the labels of your personal care products and toss out anything that contains the following twelve ingredients:

1. BHA or BHT: Used mainly in moisturizers and makeup as preservatives. Suspected endocrine disruptors and may cause cancer.

2. Coal tar dyes: Indicated by the word “p-phenylenediamine”, colors listed as “CI” followed by a five-digit number, or colors such as “FD&C Blue No. 1” or “Blue 1”. These have the potential to cause cancer and may be contaminated with heavy metals toxic to the brain.

3. DEA, MEA, or TEA-related ingredients: Used in creamy and foaming products, such as moisturizers and shampoos, these can react to form nitrosamines, which may cause cancer. 

4. Dibutyl phthalate: Used as a plasticizer in some nail care products. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant. 

5. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: Look for DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine, and quarternium-15. Used in a variety of cosmetics. Slowly release small amounts of formaldehyde, which causes cancer. 

6. Parabens: Used in a variety of cosmetics as preservatives. Suspected endocrine disrupters and may interfere with male reproductive functions. 

7. Parfum (a.k.a. fragrance): Any mixture of fragrance ingredients used in a variety of cosmetics – even in products advertised as “unscented.” Some fragrance ingredients can trigger allergies and asthma. Some are linked to cancer and neurotoxicity. 

8. PEG compounds: Used in many cosmetic cream bases. Can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which may cause cancer. Also look for propylene glycol and other ingredients with the letters “eth” (e.g., polyethylene glycol).

9. Petrolatum: Used in some hair products for shine and as a moisture barrier in some lip balms, lipsticks and moisturizers. This is a petroleum product that can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which may cause cancer.

10. Siloxanes: Look for ingredients ending in “-siloxane” or “-methicone.” Used in a variety of cosmetics to soften, smooth and moisten. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant (cyclotetrasiloxane). 

11. Sodium Laureth Sulfate: Used in foaming cosmetics, such as shampoos, cleansers, and bubble baths. Can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which may cause cancer. Look also for related chemical sodium lauryl sulfate and other ingredients with the letters “eth” (e.g., sodium laureth sulfate). 

12. Triclosan: Used in antibacterial cosmetics, such as toothpaste, cleansers, and antiperspirants. Suspected endocrine disrupter and may contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria. 

Whew!

When I first heard about the dirty dozen, I was tempted to simply shrug and just make sure I continued to do things like use natural deodorant, keep avoiding fluoride in my toothpaste, and continue to avoid using sunscreen unless absolutely necessary.

But recently I read new research – specifically, the first peer-reviewed assessment of a large number of hormone disruptors and dangerous chemicals in a variety of household products. The research is quite shocking because it reveals consumer products commonly labeled “green”, “non-toxic” and “healthy” are actually laden with dangerous chemicals. And these are products that health-conscious consumers commonly buy, bring into our homes, and proceed to soak in, rub into our hair, smother into our armpits and teeth and slather on our skin.

So I've personally switched to following a basic rule that may seem silly at first glance, but that seems pretty safe to me:

If you can’t eat it without getting seriously sick, don’t use it as a personal care product.

That’s right – your skin is a mouth, and slathering chemicals on it is pretty dang close to the equivalent of swallowing the stuff.

Your skin is a mouth?

Yes, that's not woo-woo, alternative health quack speak. Do keep reading.


How Your Skin Absorbs Toxins

Skin absorption, also known as “dermal absorption” is a known route by which substances can enter your body and blood through your skin. Along with inhalation, ingestion, and injection, dermal absorption is not only a route of exposure for toxic substances, but can also be a route of administration for medication.

To be absorbed through your skin, a chemical must pass through a few layers: particularly your epidermis, glands, or hair follicles. But since sweat glands and hair follicles make up only about 0.1 to 1.0 percent of the total skin surface, only small amounts of chemicals enter the body rapidly through the glands or hair follicles, and most of the absorption happens through what you probably know as your skin: your epidermis.

Now, take heart: it's not as though you're some weak, defenseless, blob of goo and bones covered by a tiny, thin layer of cellophane-like material. Instead, chemicals must pass through seven different cell layers of your epidermis before finally entering the dermis, where they can then enter your bloodstream or lymph fluid and proceed to circulate to other areas of the body, like your liver, brain, etc.

Toxins and toxicants move through this seven-layer dip that is your skin via a process known as “passive diffusion”, and your stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of your epidermis, is the rate-limiting barrier in the absorption of any agent. So, how quickly something passes through this thicker outer layer of your skin determines the overall absorption.

skinlayers

So why am I show-and-telling you all this? Well, your stratum corneum is primarily composed of lipophilic cholesterol, cholesterol esters, and ceramides. These are all basically types of fats. This means that although nearly all molecules penetrate your skin to some degree, lipid-soluble (AKA fat-soluble) chemicals make it through this outer skin layer and into the circulation faster.

And unfortunately, most beauty products and skin cosmetics are chock-full of fat-soluble compounds that your stratus corneum readily soaks up…that's right: just like a mouth.

What kind of fat-soluble compounds am I talking about here? Just take a look at this screenshot of a list of dangerous ingredients in the “average” skin care and skin moisturizing product (you know, the one at the health food store that advertises itself as chocolate-mango bliss for your skin):

skincarelabel

The fact is, because the majority of the skin cosmetic ingredients listed above can easily pass through your stratus corneum, and then proceed through the rest of your skin, along with passing through your sweat glands and hair follicles, it winds up in your bloodstream and then moves on to your precious organs.

Just think about nicotine and birth control patches. Many people administer potent and effective doses of these agents through the skin to the bloodstream, enabling them to forgo a daily oral pill in lieu of a patch that weans one off smoking or prevents pregnancy.

Sadly, via respiration, oral consumption, and, yes, skin absorption, many of these chemicals are winding up in babies. In 2005, the Environmental Working Group published a combination of two studies that found toxic chemicals in the umbilical cord blood of newborn babies born in the U.S. They screened for more than 400 chemicals, and an astounding 287 toxins were detected within the umbilical cord blood of these newborns. Of these 287 chemicals, 217 were neurotoxins, and 208 were known to damage growth development or cause birth defects. These toxins included mercury, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polybrominated and polychlorinated dibenzodioxins and furans (PBCD/F and PBDD/F), perflorinated chemicals (PFCs), organochlorine pesticides like DDT and chlordane, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated napthalenes (PCNs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and many others.

These study results have been largely ignored by the media, and conveniently shoved under the radar by the commercial cosmetics industry. And so, for a few years now, I have simply been smearing olive oil on my skin.


Why I Used To Smear My Face With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Olive oil?

Yep, and here's why:

Olive oil contains three major antioxidants: vitamin E, polyphenols, and phytosterols. These antioxidants can help protect the skin from premature skin aging. Vitamin E partly accounts for the anti-aging benefits of olive oil, because it helps restore skin smoothness and protects against ultraviolet light. Hydroxytyrosol, a rather rare compound found in olive oil, also prevents free radical damage to the skin, particularly sunlight damage.

Olive oil doesn't clog the pores, doesn't give the annoying sheen on the skin that something like coconut oil (another natural moisturizer and skin protectant) does, and the color in a good extra virgin olive oil can actually add tone and glow to the skin.

But yet, I don't use olive oil anymore. I quit, and it has nothing to do with anything against my beloved Italians.

Instead, there are several reasons why.

First, I've been studying the skin microbiome quite a bit lately, and, as a matter of fact, just a couple of months ago sent my stool, skin, and mouth microbiome samples off to the Human Microbiome Project to get analyzed.

The long and short of it is this:

The skin is the human body’s largest organ and is colonized by a diverse milieu of microorganisms. This colonization is driven by the ecology of the skin surface, which is highly variable, and dependent on, among other things, geographic location, the health of the “host” (you!) exogenous environmental factors (e.g. whichever skin product you happen to be using).

This skin microbiota actually functions in “educating” your immune system, passing information from the environment and into your body, allowing you to better thrive in whichever geographical location you happen to be in, and allowing you to build a healthy and robust immune system. Yep – your skin microbiome actually changes as you travel. Fascinating, eh?

skinmicrobiome

In research, the human microbiome, including the virus, bacterium, fungus, and mites pictured above, and paired with the skin has even been referred to as a “super-organism”. Of course, none of the positive, immune-boosting, complexion-enhancing effects of a healthy skin microbiome will happen if you are:

A) constantly bathing yourself in antibacterial soaps and cosmetic toxins;

or perhaps less well-known;

B) not “feeding” your skin with compounds that allow your good skin bacteria to flourish.

Unfortunately, olive oil—while rich in skin antioxidants—doesn't really feed the skin microbiome.

There's also very little evidence that olive oil can help produce youthful collagen and elastin, remove wrinkles, shrink cellulite, nourish connective tissue, fade scars, kill bad bacteria, or rejuvenate damaged skin. One of the reasons you age and get wrinkles is because your body’s cellular defense systems deteriorate over time, and the free radicals that are produced as part of your normal metabolic processes can overwhelm your skin's own natural antioxidant defenses. Olive oil can help a little bit with this but isn't really a complete panacea.

So, especially as I age, I've been searching for a better solution.

I've been looking for other natural oils and ingredients that provide not only antioxidants and “glow”, but also have an anti-aging, wrinkle-reducing, cellulite-shrinking, scar-removing and, of course, microbiome-feeding effect.


The Best Twelve Ingredients To Get Rid Of Wrinkles & Keep Your Skin Young

But some ingredients can actually help replenish and support your skin's antioxidant defenses, help your skin cells return to optimal function by helping produce new youthful collagen and elastin, which are the key building blocks of healthy skin, feed your skin's microbiome, and more.

So my wife Jessa (who has extremely sensitive skin and can only handle the most hypo-allergenic of substances on her skin), my aunt Cynthia Greenfield (a former attorney and the formulator of the Greenfield Botanics Wild Mediterranean Oregano Oil I use), and I (a formerly olive-oil obsessed giant walking pizza) – set out on an expedition to begin searching and sourcing from the four corners of the planet for the best, most organic, most hypo-allergenic ingredients that have been actually proven and tested to reduce wrinkles, smooth cellulite, nourish connective tissue, fade scars, kill bad bacteria, rejuvenate damaged skin, give you a smooth, glowing complexion, feed your skin microbiome and much, much more.

We have been receiving strange bottles of oils, tonics, and tinctures in the mail from all over the face of the planet, and over the course of our quest, we've narrowed our choice down to twelve natural skin-care compounds (and you'll be blown away by how easy it is to keep your skin young with these).

And now (drumroll please), in no particular order of importance, here are the ingredients we've identified as the top tonics to smooth on our skin each day:

1. Organic Aloe Vera

This stuff absorbs into human skin up to four times faster than water and provides a natural barrier that shields the cells from toxins. Naturally rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and B12, Aloe Vera has soothing and cooling properties that relieve redness, irritation, and itchiness, while nourishing your skin and tissues. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it works to speed the healing of cuts, bruises, and sunburns, as well as minimize scarring. More research here.

2. Organic Jojoba Oil

Very similar to the composition of human sebum, making it extremely compatible with your skin. Rich in vitamin E and antioxidant properties, leaves skin smooth, supple, and balanced. As a “humectant”, it also draws water to the skin's surface, creating a protective barrier that seals in moisture. More research here.

3. Organic Amla

Also referred to as Indian Gooseberry, amla (which grows just 50 feet from my front door here in the forest in Washington state!) is an antioxidant that contains the richest and highest natural source of vitamin C, with antibacterial and astringent properties that help prevent infection and promote the healing of the skin. It is referred to in ancient texts as the best medicine to prevent aging and also as a rasayana (a promoter of health, longevity and great complexion). Amla contains a high concentration of minerals, amino acids, and a high density of tannins and polyphenols, and flavonoids, as well as strong immune-boosting properties. Promotes glow on the skin and delays wrinkles. More research here.

4. Organic Carrot Seed Oil

Rich in beta-carotene and Vitamins B, C, D, and E, this premier oil helps remove toxic build-up on the skin, improves complexion, and increases elasticity and firmness. Stimulates cell growth and helps rejuvenate dehydrated and damaged skin.

5. Organic Lavender

Has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and analgesic properties. Extremely healing and valuable in the treatment of many skin disorders and injuries, disinfects scalp and skin, and enhances blood circulation. Also has cognitive-boosting properties and was used by medieval knights and ladies as a precious fragrance. More research (and an excellent article on lavender) here.

6. Organic Wild Oregano Oil

Most of the health benefits of oregano oil can be attributed to the presence of carvacrol and thymol compounds, as they have the ability to kill harmful microbes in the body, while allowing good, natural bacteria to thrive and flourish. These powerful phenols have anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, and anti-fungal properties, all without killing the good bacteria on your skin. Good podcast and research here.

7. Organic Geranium

Invigorates complexion, improves elasticity, and has a tremendous balancing effect on every skin type. A natural astringent, it promotes proper blood flow, helps minimize scar tissue, and rapidly heals wounds. Contains strong antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. On an aroma-therapeutic level, it promotes stability and balance. More research here.

8. Organic Palmarosa

A tropical grass that is antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial, and hydrating. Helps stimulate cell reproduction, moisturize skin, and speed healing. More research here.

9. Organic Turmeric

Considered one of the greatest skin healers, turmeric is antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antiallergenic. Rich in antioxidants, it effectively protects the skin cells from damage, rejuvenates cellular tissue, helps reduce pigmentation, and provides smooth and glowing skin. More research here.

10. Organic Juniper Berry

Well known for its stimulating and cleansing properties, juniper helps treat a variety of ailments, from skin irritations to arthritis. With high levels of astringent and antiseptic properties, many people swear by using it for treating cellulite by stimulating the skin’s connective tissue and encouraging circulation, collagen production, and making skin firmer. Also helps prevent tissue degeneration, calms redness and inflammation, and is excellent for treating aches and pains. More research here.

11. Organic Lemon

With natural nutrients and rich content of vitamin C, lemon is detoxifying, astringent, antiseptic, disinfectant, anti-infection, antifungal, carminative, and stimulating. Lemon increases the luster of dull skin, aids in purification, and rejuvenates the skin. Its antiseptic properties treat blemishes and various skin disorders. It’s also an effective hair tonic (and yes, you can put lemon oil in your hair for a bit of added shine and shimmer!). More research here.

12. Organic Patchouli

An excellent skin tonic used to promote and stimulate new cell growth, prevent the formation of scar tissue, and help to calm inflamed skin. Also regulates combination and oily skin conditions and helps rejuvenate chapped, cracked, mature, or sensitive skin types. Patchouli is astringent and anti-septic, and when used in balanced, sane amounts it does not, contrary to popular belief, actually make you smell like a hairy hippie. More research here.

So that's it: aloe, jojoba, amla, carrot seed oil, lavender, oregano, geranium, palmarosa, turmeric, juniper berry, lemon, and patchouli.

You figure out a way to combine all these in proper ratios, package them, get them all on your skin in one fell swoop, and you've got yourself one potent, anti-aging skin serum.


The New Anti-Aging Greenfield Botanics Serum

The problem is, before now these never existed in one spot.

You'd have to get a bit of this on Amazon, a bit of that at your local health food store, some of another on a random oils website, figure out a way to package it all in your home, and then keep your fingers crossed that the final product is actually not just organic, but non-GMO, sustainably sourced, all-natural, toxin-free and, if you possess super sensitive skin like my wife Jessa, hypo-allergenic, meaning free of traces of things like gluten and soy.

Through meticulous research and a passion to develop healthy, high-quality natural body care products, I'm proud to introduce the new Greenfield Botanics Serum, an innovative beauty product for men and women that is guilt-free, organic, nourishing, and leaves your skin young and glowing.

This new serum, fresh off the presses but even better than extra virgin olive oil, is vegan, non-GMO, sustainable, gluten-free, soy-free, all-natural, toxin-free, and contains each and every one of the ingredients above, mixed in a perfect ratio and meticulously tested by myself, Jessa, and my Aunt Cynthia, who is passionate about herbalism, botanics, and natural skincare and healthcare.

The result is an easy-to-use skin treatment that contains incredibly effective anti-wrinkle components which may help reduce the appearance of crow's feet, fine lines, wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, brown spots, and skin discoloration. It may also reduce the thinning of the skin that occurs with aging. Within just a few weeks of daily use, you'll find that your skin becomes denser and more firm, and your age spots fade. And if you don't yet have skin “issues”, then this serum will guarantee that you keep them at bay.

Because it is a completely natural and hypoallergenic formula, the Greenfield Botanics Serum can be used on all skin types, including hypersensitive skin. You can use it to completely replace your moisturizer, or you can use it alongside your other skincare products for extra effect. It also combines perfectly with sunscreens and any other moisturizers for all-day skin repair and protection.

We made a decision to package the Greenfield Botanics Serum in durable, dark glass (not plastic!), to protect the precious ingredients from sunlight, heat, and oxidation. There are absolutely no toxic preservatives, endocrine disruptors or chemicals in the formulation, and in designing the ingredients, we've followed closely my personal rule that I wouldn't put anything onto my body or skin that I couldn't actually eat.

And of course, it even feeds your skin microbiome and nourishes damaged hair.

I'll admit: it was tough to actually get all this stuff in its certified organic form, but we managed to pull it off, and the Greenfield Botanics Serum contains, in balanced ratios that we personally tested over and over again to achieve the right balance for skin absorption, completely organic aloe, jojoba, amla, carrot seed oil, lavender, oregano, geranium, palmarosa, turmeric, juniper berry, lemon, and patchouli.

My wife and I now swear by this stuff. Every person we've given a bottle to has been completely blown away by the fragrance (which works perfectly for men and women), the ease of use, and the youthful look and feel their skin gets within just a couple of applications.

As a matter of fact, aside from the twin boys I helped make nine years ago, this skin serum is probably one of the coolest things I've ever created. Can you tell I'm excited?


Summary

So yeah, it's true. Your skin is a mouth.

It's also a living microbiome.

To be a complete skin, it also needs more than simply, say, olive oil or coconut oil.

And your skin definitely doesn't need the dozens of chemicals you find in the average skin cosmetic, even the cosmetic you get at your local health food store.

But I'll vouch for and give you a 100% guarantee that, when combined and used daily, every ingredient you just discovered and that I've packed into the new anti-aging serum will actually work when it comes to giving you the age-defying and microbiome-feeding effects your skin deserves.

That's why every morning and evening, I now simply give a bottle of Greenfield Botanics Serum a good shake and then apply a small amount (2-3 pumps) to my face. Every week, to keep my lovely locks nourished, I put 10 pumps into my hair. Since it smells so nice and works so fast, I can simply waltz out of my bathroom with no other products on my skin or hair whatsoever (and I'm definitely no longer calling down to the hotel restaurant for olive oil to smear on my face).

Here's the deal: you can get this new anti-aging skin serum now, but we're only starting with a limited number of bottles available, and they're probably going to disappear fast…

…especially since every single bottle comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

You can click here to get the new Greenfield Botanics Serum now.  Enjoy. I'm super proud of this new formulation and guarantee you're going to love this stuff.

Questions, comments, or feedback? Leave them below! My wife Jessa or I can jump in and answer any questions you have on skin beauty, skin longevity, toxic skin care products, olive oil (ha!), and this new anti-aging serum, and remember, you can click here to get the new Greenfield Botanics Serum now (includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.) 


Q&A

Q: Are there any other active or non-active ingredients in this? Any natural preservatives, etc.? 

The only ingredients are those on the label. Zero preservatives, zero additives, zero fillers.

Q. How do you keep the Vitamin C and other antioxidants in this serum from degrading?

The serum is packaged in a glass amber bottle, which limits oxidation. You can also keep your serum in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator to slow oxidation even further.

Q. I cannot tolerate the strong smell of patchouli oil. How strong does this serum smell?

Patchouli is listed as the last ingredient, as it is the least plentiful ingredient in the serum. There is definitely not a strong patchouli scent in the serum.

Q. Is this something to use all over or primarily the face? 

Due to the presence of and potent nature of essential oils, one pump goes a long way, and is enough for the entire face and neck, although the serum can be used anywhere on the body, on cuts/scrapes/bruises, dry skin on arms and legs, etc.

Q. Serums are often used in addition to a “toner” and “moisturizer”. Should I use this on its own, or with another product?

Use the Serum after cleansing and toning. Greenfield Botanics also offers an all-natural Peppermint Toner. While the Serum does hydrate the skin, moisturizing is not the primary purpose of Greenfield Botanics Serum. Follow up using the serum with a nourishing moisturizer like Greenfield Botanics Face and Body Oil.

Q. How long should I expect a bottle to last with normal use?

If you use it once or twice a day, your serum will last 30-45 days.

Q. What would be the best thing to use to cleanse your skin before applying the serum? 

Frequent use of soap can be harsh on the face, and you can simply cleanse with warm water, or the occasional use of a good, clean soap such as Dr. Bronners.

Q. When should this serum be applied? AM/PM? After I cleanse my face?

We recommend you use it once or twice a day, in the mornings and/or evenings.

Q. You mention the ingredients listed in a perfect ratio for the anti-aging serum. Does this mean all parts are in equal amounts? If not, is it possible to have the exact number or ratio of each ingredient?

Here's the deal: we can't give out the nitty-gritty details on the exact ratios because, frankly, it's proprietary and we'd be shooting ourselves in the foot! But we guarantee that we did a ton of experimentation with getting the ratios just right, and you're going to love the final result.

Q. Does this serum work as well as something like Retin-A for anti-aging and acne/eczema prevention?

The serum is far safer, far more natural, and completely absent of hormonal disruptors and dangerous ingredients like many of the Retin-A or other acne/eczema products.

So there you have it. Get your Greenfield Botanics Serum today by clicking the photo below!

Greenfield Botanics Serum

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122 thoughts on “You’ll Be Blown Away By How Easy It Is To Keep Your Skin Young With These 12 Natural Compounds.

  1. Austin says:

    In disbelief that the Serum has vanished from the Kion website. Truly one of the best and most unique products. Didn’t plan on this-now I guess it’s time to research an alternative…

    1. Hi Austin! Sorry to report Kion will actually no longer be carrying the Serum. It is manufactured by a small company, who are now going to begin selling it directly. The last I heard was that they were still in the process of getting their website up and running, so unfortunately we don’t have a date for when it will be available directly from them. Kion will likely send an email to all previous purchasers to let them know where and when it will be available so be on the lookout for that :)

      1. Marissa says:

        Hi Ben! Can you post a link to the small company that was going to begin selling the Serum directly? I am not a previous user so I wouldn’t be on the list to receive the email about it becoming available.

        1. Ben Greenfield says:

          Hi Marissa. The serum is still manufactured by the same company that I worked with to create it. The name of the company is Greenfield Botanics and the product is now called “Pure Radiance Serum.” You can find it here: https://greenfieldbotanics.com/products/pure-radiance-serum

  2. Isaac says:

    Why discontinue the skin serum? It is an amazing product and really works. Consider bringing it back to kIon, if not please post DIY recipe. Thank you Ben—

    -Isaac

  3. Jackson Kane says:

    Hey do you have a specific article in reference to the Aloe Vera on the skin? I clicked the link and it brought up over 400 results. Thanks again Ben, huge fan!

  4. Karen says:

    I’d like to see you come out with a copper/collegan peptide serum

  5. Tomas says:

    Interested in product from the UK… but why is international shipping so expensive for such a tiny package. It’s like 30% of the product cost on top

  6. Daniel says:

    Would this product be safe/effective for babies over 6 months to improve skin issues such as eczema?

    1. I am not a doctor and this is not to be taken, interpreted or construed as medical advice. Please talk with a licensed medical professional about this.

  7. californiasurf says:

    For age spots, you have to use the Made from Earth Carrot Serum. The carrot seed oil in the product was recommended by my dermatologist, and worked better than some of the expensive treatments I tried. The serum is only $20.

    The age spots on my hands are gone and the age spot on my face is fading away.

    I use it about 2-3 times per week, and saw the age spot diminish around week 2. Highly recommend it….

    1. Cassie says:

      What about lemon and photosensitivity? This might not be good to put on in the day time. I’m in Australia and I’m a ginger so I’d love to use this but I’d be afraid it would be damaging

      1. It works great at night too ;)

  8. Ryan Lowery says:

    Ben, would it be a good idea to put this on a freshly-stitched eyebrow/forehead cut?

    Thanks for all you do!

  9. Bobby says:

    How does this work with acne gels like clindagel and Trentoin….. Can I use in conjunction?

  10. jake says:

    Hey Ben – about how many pumps do you get out of one bottle of this stuff. Just want to know how long it will last me if I am using it daily on my face and weekly on my hair.

    1. If you use the suggested 2-3 pumps, it should last you about a month to a month and a half.. so maybe a little less if you're using it on your hair once a week as well.

      1. Jake says:

        Thanks!

  11. Ayesha says:

    I use Aloe Vera to keep my skin smooth. Also, the other day my friend showed me a Vitamin E oil, wasn’t olive oil, but it had a good fragrance. Looks like this is the same serum probably. I’ll try it out!

  12. marty mcdonald says:

    Nice photoshop job, Ben.:-)

  13. SlyNate says:

    Have you ever heard of squalane for skin care? It seems like a promizing oil/fat that resists oxidation that could be helpful as a base for this formula. Also, are you concerned about the estrogenic effects of applying essential oils directly to the skin so frequently?

    1. This is a great question to call into the podcast! speakpipe.com/bengreenfield. Regarding the estrogenic effects of essential oils, I actually refuted this in my podcast with Dr. Anthony Day… https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/podcast/estrogen…

  14. Craig says:

    Ben,

    Brilliant article series, very well done — and we’re very interested in trying your serum. One long question, sorry:

    — One thing I’ve always disliked most “natural and organic” skin care products is most of the ingredients have particles that are simply too large to be absorbed and the stuff just sits on your face and creates an oil slick ;-)

    — Which is why the stories of the chemical skincare lines are SO compelling: they talk about special micro/mini/molecular, blah-blah processing that renders their super-helpful ingredients super-absorb-able.

    — Finally, the question: **What’s your take on particle size and skin absorption?** You aren’t claiming that simply because something is natural and organic that it’s always absorbed and utilized by the skin, are you?

    Thanks!

  15. Craig says:

    Ben,

    Brilliant article series, very well done — and we’re very interested in trying your serum. One long question, sorry:

    — One thing I’ve always disliked most “natural and organic” skin care products is most of the ingredients have particles that are simply too large to be absorbed and the stuff just sits on your face and creates an oil slick ;-)

    — Which is why the stories of the chemical skincare lines are SO compelling: they talk about special micro/mini/molecular, blah-blah processing that renders their super-helpful ingredients super-absorb-able.

    — Finally, the question: **What’s your take on particle size and skin absorption?** You aren’t claiming that simply because something is natural and organic that it’s always absorbed and utilized by the skin, are you?

    Thanks!

  16. larry says:

    emu oil works great btw

  17. Celia says:

    Would this be safe and recommended to use on a pregnant belly to help treat/prevent stretch marks?

    1. Yes, it would actually work quite well for that with daily application for 30 days!

  18. ebrunner says:

    Great article – definitely something to pay attention to. Out of curiosity, if we absorb this stuff into our bloodstream, do we absorb the calories as well? I.e., if we use coconut or other oils as a moisturizer do we need to count the calories towards our daily food intake?

    1. No, once it gets through the skin there is a hydrophobic layer that inhibits caloric absorption of fats into bloodstream.

  19. Luke says:

    Hello Ben,

    I absolutely love your podcasts and emails. Your knowledge is outstanding! I am curious if you have before and after photos of clients using the product.

    thank you,

    Luke

    1. I do not, but you can find a bunch of review on the product here: https://greenfieldfitnesssystems.com/product/gree…

  20. Paul says:

    I would like to try, but live in CA and spend significant time in the sun. My current facial moisturizer is SPF 35. What are your thoughts on using this in conjunction with a sun block? And if so, what sun block would you recommend for both myself and my kids?

    1. Read this for my sunblock post: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2016/03/best-hom… – you could totally put any of those options on AFTER you use the Sunblock.

  21. Melina Murphy says:

    Hi Ben,

    This sounds fantastic. I am a newly graduated esthetician and would love to try this in my practice. Is it possible that you have samples to try?

    1. Unfortunately not :/.. but we'll give you a full refund if you don't like the product.

  22. jay says:

    Finding an organic mattress in NYC that feels great is not that easy. Thanks for your suggestions. I’ll check out Essentia over the weekend and try them for myself. Can’t wait to sleep on a healthy organic mattress that’s free of all these chemicals.

  23. Armin Gajardo says:

    Dude! Lavender! What about my T bro? Won’t it bring it down? How will I even lift bro?

    1. Myth! Here's why:

      By: Robert Tisserand

      Reprinted by permission of: Robert Tisserand <a href="http:// (www.roberttisserand.com)” target=”_blank”> <a href="http://(www.roberttisserand.com)” target=”_blank”>(www.roberttisserand.com)

      Background
      In a recent report, a correlation is alleged between commercial products containing lavender and tea tree oils and breast growth in young boys. Three cases were seen in boys aged 4-7, who had all been using such products. In each case, the breast growth reduced to normal parameters within several months of ceasing to use the products. Subsequent laboratory testing showed that both essential oils had estrogen-like properties (Henley et al 2007).

      In the report, no information is given about any of the constituents of the products used. The information given about product use is sparse, and we do not know for certain whether any of the products contained lavender or tea tree oils, since they were not analyzed by the researchers.

      The Cases

      Case one
      In the first case, “The patient’s mother reported applying a “healing balm” containing lavender oil to his skin starting shortly before the initial presentation.” No further details of the product or its use are given, but a healing balm sounds like something that might only be applied to a small area of skin. If so, then it is unlikely that any ingredient could have entered the boy’s blood in sufficient concentration to cause gynecomastia within a short time period.

      Case two
      In the second case, a styling hair gel was applied to the hair and scalp every morning, along with regular use of a shampoo. Both tea tree and lavender oil are cited on the ingredient list of both products.

      In a subsequent website report, it is claimed that the two hair products used in this case were manufactured by Paul Mitchell, and that these were analyzed by a competitor. The shampoo was said to contain “very low concentrations” of tea tree oil, and the content in the hair gel was “virtually undetectable”. Lavender oil concentration was not checked (Neustaedter 2007).

      Dermal absorption of fragrance from shampoo application has been estimated to be 80 times less than that from body lotion (Cadby et al 2002). If the website report is genuine, considering that shampoo is a wash-off product, and that there was only a negligible amount of tea tree oil in the hair gel, tea tree oil can be ruled out as a possible cause of this boy’s gynecomastia. However, liberal use of a hair gel rich in lavender oil could result in moderate dermal absorption of lavender oil constituents (Cal 2006).

      Case three
      The third case involved “lavender-scented soap, and intermittent use of lavender-scented commercial skin lotions”. This sounds as if there may not be very much natural lavender oil present. Further, soap is a wash-off product, and the use of lavender lotion is described as “intermittent”. Whether any absorption of genuine lavender oil took place at all seems doubtful.

      Since dermal absorption of soap fragrance is some 266 times less than that from body lotion, it is virtually impossible that the fragrance in a soap could be absorbed in sufficient quantity to cause any physiological effect (Cadby et al 2002).

      Of great interest is the statement that, in this third case, a fraternal twin used the same skin lotions, but not the soap, and did not develop gynecomastia. It would be reasonable to assume that, since the soap could not be responsible for the effect, and since the twin used the lotions without any problem, the gynecomastia in this third case must have been due to some cause other than essential oils.

      The in vitro testing
      The in vitro evidence shows weak but definite endocrine disrupting effects for both lavender and tea tree oils.

      The second case was the only one in which tea tree oil was involved. Tea tree oil was tested because it was deemed to be “chemically similar” to lavender oil. However, apart from the fact that both are essential oils, they have little in common chemically. The composition of the essential oils tested is not given, nor is any other information about them, apart from the supplier. Since they do not appear to be organically grown, biocide content is a possibility.

      Discussion

      It is unusual in such reports not to name the products suspected as being responsible for the effects under discussion. In the circumstances, it is also curious that the labeled ingredients were not cited. It is even more surprising that no attempt was made to ascertain, retrospectively, whether any constituents of lavender or tea tree oil were detectable. If the products are not named, no one else can test them either.

      Even assuming that one or both of the essential oils were present at some level, we do not know what quantities of essential oil constituents may have penetrated the skin, but we do know that transcutaneous absorption from fragrances takes some time. The amount that could find its way into the blood from a wash-off product such as a shampoo or soap is negligible, because the time of skin contact is so short. Skin absorption from tea tree and lavender oil constituents is measured in hours, not minutes, in and some instances even leave-on products result in minimal dermal penetration (Cal 2006, Reichling 2006).

      The Henley et al report mentions that none of the boys had been exposed to any known endocrine disruptor, such as medications, oral contraceptives(!), marijuana or soy products. However, no mention is made of other known endocrine disruptors, such as organochlorine pesticides, PCBs, polychlorinated dioxins, alkyl phenols, pthalates and parabens (Darbre 2006). Both pesticides and phthalates have been found in essential oils, and both phthalates and parabens are commonly found in cosmetic products.

      It is, therefore, entirely possible that other ingredients in the products caused the gynecomastia. Pesticides, PCBs and dioxins are found in the environment, often in food, and it is also possible that some local surge of environmental hormone disruptors caused these cases in Colorado.

      No attempt was made to identify the constituent(s) responsible for the in vitro effect, but it is reasonable to expect that any hormonal action in an essential oil would be due to one or two constituents, or even contaminants. It is noteworthy that, while in vitro hormonal effects from essential oil constituents have been previously reported, these are generally very weak, and have been estimated as being at least 10,000 times less potent than 17β-estradiol (Howes et al 2002).

      There is no evidence that the effect seen in vitro would take place in vivo, and much more research would be needed before any definite determinations could be made. Many estrogenic substances have previously been identified from plant sources, and very weak activity is typical of these phytoestrogens (Chadwick et al 2006, Howes et al 2002).

      Conclusions

      As the report states, breast growth in pre-pubertal boys is extremely uncommon, yet three cases are reported within a short period of time, and all in the same clinic. Considering that some 200 tonnes per annum are produced of both lavender and tea tree oil, that most of this goes into personal care products, and that very little of the evidence presented for these 3 cases is convincing, the press reports of caution are premature.

      Even if one or more of these cases was linked to product use, any connection with either lavender or tea tree oil is unproven. Other known endocrine disrupting ingredients in the products could have played a role. Furthermore, we do not know what other factors, such as dietary or environmental, may have played a part.

      The in vitro work reported by Henley et al (2007) does indicate a hormonal effect. However, this cannot be extrapolated to estimate actual human risk, especially without knowing more about the essential oil constituents causing the in vitro effects seen. No connection was established between the in vitro work and the three cases, and the case for tea tree oil having an effect on prepubertal gynecomastia is especially weak. Phytoestrogens generally have a very weak hormonal activity, and it is implausible that the amounts of essential oil that enter the body from product use would have a significant effect. Further research will hopefully clarify these issues.

      References
      Cadby PA, Troy WR, Vey MG 2002 Consumer exposure to fragrance ingredients: providing estimates for safety evaluation. Regulatory Toxicology & Pharmacology 36:
      246-252

      Cal K 2006 How does the type of vehicle influence the in vitro skin absorption and elimination kinetics of terpenes? Archives of Dermatological Research 297: 311-315

      Chadwick LR, Pauli GF, Farnsworth NR 2006 The pharmacognosy of Humulus lupulus L. (hops) with an emphasis on estrogenic properties. Phytomedicine 13: 119-131

      Darbre PD 2006 Environmental oestrogens, cosmetics and breast cancer. Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism 20: 121-143

      FMA 2007 http://www.fmafragrance.org/sub_pages/020107henle…

      Henley DV, Lipson N, Korach KS, Bloch CA 2007 Prebubertal gynecomastia linked to lavender and tea tree oils. New England Journal of Medicine 365(5): 479-485

      Howes M-J R, Houghton P J, Barlow D J et al 2002 Assessment of estrogenic activity in some common essential oil constituents. Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmacology 54:1521–
      1528

      Neustaedter R 2007 http://www.cureguide.com/Natural_Health_Newslette…

      Reichling J, Landvatter U, Wagner H, Kostka KH, Schaefer UF 2006 In vitro studies on release and human skin permeation of Australian tea tree oil (TTO) from topical
      formulations. European Journal of Pharmaceutics & Biopharmaceutics 64: 222-228

      Contact: Robert Tisserand
      Email: [email protected]

  24. Debbie says:

    Is there a coupon code to use?

    1. The $10 discount automatically applies!

  25. Cathy Cooke says:

    Good stuff Ben! Speaking of oils- here’s one for you: How do you protect your cutting boards? Everything says use mineral oil, but I obviously don’t want to do that….your picks?

    1. For our wooden cutting board, Jessa uses an oil/beeswax combo wood salve. You can check out https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/innercircle to get the nitty gritty on all her recipes. ;)

  26. Wendy says:

    I am very sensitve to smells (I gave up patchouli in the 70’s! Really don’t like it.) and also due to allergies, my eyes constantly water. I don’t use anything that I could get into my eyes because of this. Would your product pose a problem in this regard? Because otherwise it sounds great.

    1. It is honestly very mild and pleasant smelling, not strong like straight patchouli oil – and it's EXTREMELY hypoallergenic. I'd give it a go!

  27. Josh says:

    This looks great. Are all the ingredients oil based i.e. jojoba base with the various added essential oils in a top secret ratio?

    1. Yes, that's basically the idea…and the ratio took FOREVER to figure out how to actually get it to absorb well, smell good and actually WORK!

  28. Jenny says:

    I can’t wait I to try your new product. It looks amazing! Do you have any suggestions for getting rid of bad under eye marks after swimming? Do you have any suggestions for goggles that leave less marks? My eyes look horrible after I swim. I have tried various goggles and creams with no results. I thought you may have a suggestion. Thank you.

    1. You can use this skin serum under your eyes…but I would also use the Blue Seventy "Element" goggle for less marks, and also make sure your straps aren't too tight! Swimmer's bane, and it happens to all of us!

  29. Steve Shacter says:

    I do not understand why you won’t answer my question about the exact contents of what’s in this very expensive product. I don’t mind paying a lot, but only when I know I’m not getting mostly aloe vera, or lemon juice. A legitimate product, should be 100% transparent.

    1. Mimi says:

      No no Ben is ethically correct

      Mimi

  30. Mary says:

    Ben, are you familiar with the Mother Dirt AOB product line? (sprayable skin bacteria). I corresponded with them asking about compatibility with Aloe Vera, and they replied saying Aloe was not biome-friendly; i.e., it kills skin bacteria. Since then, I’ve stopped using it topically. Comment? (btw, I DID just order your product anyway. Always looking for great, safe skin care stuff)

    Thanks much….

    1. Not true. Just like oregano, it kills bad fungus and bacteria and leaves the good bacteria alone

  31. Jake says:

    G’day Ben,

    Just wondering if you can put this on legs, etc? I’m 54 yo and heaps of cycling, running, etc. has given my skin some wrinkles I would like to get diminished. I also am keen to get away from shit lotions/potions that promise to help my skin.

    Thanks,

    Jake

    1. Yep, you can absolutely apply to cellulite prone areas etc., including legs!

  32. Jenny says:

    Does this product work as good as Retin-A for anti-aging and acne prevention? Thank you.

    1. Far, far safer and far less full of hormonal disruptors and dangerous ingredients.

  33. Steve Shacter says:

    You mention the ingredients listed in a perfect ratio for the anti-aging serum. Does this mean all parts are in equal amounts. If not may I have the numbers of the ratio of all the listed ingredients?

    1. Awesome question! Here's the deal: we can't give out the nitty-gritty details on the exact ratios because, frankly, it's proprietary and we'd be shooting ourselves in the foot! But I guarantee that we did a TON of experimentation with getting the ratios just right, and you're going to love the final result.

      1. Steve shacter says:

        Not necessarily what I was looking for, but I understand proprietary issues. I do appreciate the response. Thank you

  34. Graeme Mapstone says:

    Hi Ben – have you ever used or read of the efficacy/safety of Argan Oil? I struggle with Psoriasis especially patches on my face and have very dry/itchy/flaky skin and scalp (attractive!). I’m always on the lookout for the most natural / chemical free moisturiser. I have dabbled with Coconut oil on my face but has a slight “burning” feeling – I know it has antibacterial properties but my skin (esp face) is so sensitive I struggle with it / most things.

    Thanks in advance. Graeme – Preston, UK

    1. Haven't used Argan! I will 100% vouch for all the ingredients listed above, however. I would absolutely try the serum if I were you, and it does ship to the UK…

  35. Jillian says:

    It says you don’t ship to Australia??

    1. We definitely ship to Australia and rarely have problems through customs BUT it's advised to choose USPS Priority Mail instead of USPS First Class, because Priority has been tracking.

  36. Jenna says:

    Great stuff! Any advise on makeup? I have bad scarring and still get breakouts, however much I’d love to be makeup free, I still haven’t got my skin to a good place (I appreciate wearing makeup doesn’t help- vicious cycle)

    1. Yes, read the "Detox Your Home" article I link to here: https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/2013/08/how-t…

  37. Natalie says:

    Can we get it in New Zealand?

  38. BBD67 says:

    Just ordered!!! Any recommendations for body lotion?

    1. ton of options, but here are a few good combos…

      Calendula and Chamomile
      Rosewater and Almond Oil
      Peppermint, Wintergreen, and Ginger
      Coconut and Calendula
      Mint and green tea
      Lavender and vanilla

  39. Jeffrey Liberman says:

    Hi, I think your new book is Great…I started reading it 7-8 months ago…moved to CA from VA and couldn’t find it ….so I re attained it in kindle form ;-).

    ( I also liked what you said via Mind Valley or Urban Monk…don’t remember, thank you). I’ll try your serum in a couple weeks.

  40. John says:

    If I use 3 pumps per day how long will this product last?

    1. About 1 to 1.5 months!

  41. Paolo says:

    Hi Ben,
    thanks for this very interesting article and product.
    Do you sell your serum overseas?
    Thanks again.
    Paolo Perucci MD

  42. Jackie says:

    Hi Ben, are there any other or non active ingredients in this? Any natural preservatives, etc? Thanks.

    1. The only ingredients are those on the label. No preservatives, but oregano oil is a natural anti-microbial.

  43. Joan D says:

    This sounds fantastic. Please explain how the Vitamin C will not degrade? I want to love this stuff.

    thank you

    1. The serum is packaged in an amber bottle, which will help slow oxidation. You can also keep it in the fridge to slow it down even further.

  44. Sheila says:

    I cannot tolerate the smell of Patchouli, it makes me physically sick. Does this smell like Patchouli because I could not have that smell on my face.

    1. Patchouli is listed as the last ingredient, as it is the least ingredient. In my opinion, it has a strong scent but not a strong patchouli scent.

  45. Sarah says:

    When would this be applied? AM/PM? After I cleanse my face?

    1. I go once a day, usually in the morning because I like the smell.

  46. Sandra says:

    My friend makes me a similar one, I LOVE IT – yours looks a tad more advanced – I am going to try it! Sounds amazing.

  47. Vicki says:

    What would be the best thing to use to cleanse your skin before applying the serum?

    1. Honestly you can just wash in water, or a good clean soap Dr. Bronners…

  48. mike says:

    how long do you expect this 2 oz bottle to last with normal use?

  49. Maria says:

    I was jut looking to order a bunch of these products and I open your email today…this was meant to be!

    Serums are often used in addition to a “toner” and “moisturizer” Would I use this on it’s own after cleansing?

    1. I personally use it all on it's own, but some people like to add moisturizer after wards. Try on it's own first though.

  50. Zeta says:

    Intriguing, I’m interested!
    Link still appears to be broken…

    1. Hit refresh and try it now!

  51. Stephanie says:

    Is this something to use all over or primarily the face? My kids battle with eczema so I’m always looking for an emollient, toxic free product. Might be too expensive to use so liberally?

    1. 2-3 pumps (like essential oils do) actually go a long way. I'd apply small amounts locally…

  52. Michelle says:

    Is washing with olive oil out as well? I’ve been cleansing my face with olive oil for the past year, and then I use other oils and essential oils to moisturize. What is your take on using EVOO as a cleanser as opposed to a moisturizer?

    1. Honestly I'm done with EVOO. This stuff is so much better, and I'd rather engage in "better living through science". ;) You could, I guess, WASH with olive oil then apply this…

      1. Michelle says:

        I’ve never used EVOO as a moisturizer because that is not enough for my skin…..I need more moisture then what it can provide. But using it as a cleanser, especially to get off makeup, has seemed a better alternative and less drying than coconut oil.

  53. Georgia says:

    Your skin is young, that of a 30 year old, let’s see some before and after serum users of people over 50. Also, your n is what?

    1. My Grandma is 91 and she is now using it every day…as far as "n", here's the deal: I want folks to get their hands on this stuff ASAP…unlike a pharmaceutical drug that can take years and years for approval!

  54. Janet Keller says:

    When I clicked on to get the serum it says

    Error establishing a database connection

    I would like more information to get this?

    1. Hmm…click again and hit refresh perhaps?

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