News
How to Recognize a Quality Solid Shampoo
Solid cosmetics are no longer a novelty and can be an excellent choice for those seeking a more eco-friendly lifestyle. However, not all solid shampoos are created equal, and it’s easy to mistake them for simple soap bars. Here are some tips to distinguish a high-quality solid shampoo from a fake. Mistakes to Avoid You’ll often come across products labeled as "solid shampoo" that are nothing more than soap bars. These products might look appealing with their cute shapes and vibrant colors, but they’re not suitable for hair care. Using a soap bar instead of a solid shampoo can lead to dry, tangled hair and scalp irritation. Key Ingredients of a Quality Solid Shampoo A true solid shampoo is formulated with surfactants and active ingredients specifically designed for hair. It’s crucial for the product to have an acidic pH, similar to that of our scalp (around 5.5/6.0). An alkaline pH, typical of soap bars, can damage hair, leaving it dull and brittle. With a quality solid shampoo, there’s no need for an acidic rinse after washing. What is pH and Why Does It Matter? pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. A pH below 7 is acidic, while a pH above 7 is alkaline (basic). Our scalp has a naturally acidic pH, so it’s essential for a shampoo to maintain this balance to keep hair healthy and shiny. Effects of the Wrong pH on Hair Think of your hair as a pinecone. When the shampoo’s pH is below 7, the "scales" of the pinecone close, leaving hair smooth, shiny, and manageable. However, when the pH exceeds 7 (common in solid soaps, which typically have a pH of 8.0/8.5), the scales open, making hair appear dull and prone to tangling, creating that "bird’s nest" effect. How to Spot a Fake Solid Shampoo To identify a fake solid shampoo, carefully read the ingredient list (INCI) on the label. If you see ingredients like Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) combined with oils or butters, or terms like Sodium Palmate or Sodium Cocoate, it’s likely a soap bar and not a genuine solid shampoo. Conclusion Choosing a high-quality solid shampoo not only helps reduce environmental impact but also ensures proper hair care. Always check the ingredients and make sure the product is specifically formulated for use on hair. With these simple tips, you can avoid being “soaped up” by fake solid shampoos and enjoy the benefits of a true solid shampoo.
Learn more
Travel Light, Live Green: Sustainable Tips for the Eco-Conscious Traveler
Where are you headed this holiday season? Whether it’s a snowy getaway or a sunny escape, now’s the perfect time to think about how we can travel a little lighter and greener. With a few simple choices, you can enjoy your vacation without leaving a heavy environmental footprint behind. Here’s how to pack with purpose and make your holiday travels as sustainable as they are memorable. Travel Light for a Lighter Planet Did you know that lighter luggage not only makes your trip easier but also reduces your carbon footprint? According to a report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), every kilogram of weight reduced on a plane can save approximately 34,000 gallons of fuel each year. By bringing only what you need, you’re helping conserve resources and making travel simpler and more enjoyable. Plus, it's a great way to keep yourself from overloading on souvenirs you might not actually need. Ditch Single-Use Plastics with Reusables With travel on the rise, single-use plastics are more prevalent than ever. Every year, between 8-10 million tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Bring along reusable items like water bottles, food containers, and shopping bags to cut down on waste while you’re on the go. And when it comes to toiletries, options like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and reusable containers are convenient and space-saving. Handso is the Perfect Eco-Friendly Travel Companion Handso was designed to make personal care more sustainable and portable, without adding single-use plastics to your packing list. Here’s how Handso makes eco-friendly travel easy: Reduce Environmental Impact: Handso encourages use of bar soap in showers, thus replacing bulky plastic body wash bottles with a compact, reusable solution that’s made to last. By ditching single-use plastics, Handso supports a zero-waste lifestyle Maximize Suitcase Space: Compact and spill-proof, Handso fits neatly in your luggage, or hangs on your backpack, saving space and eliminating the need for extra containers, loofahs, or mini travel bottles. No more worrying about spills or messy leaks in your luggage! Convenient On-the-Go Care: With Handso, enjoy a luxurious lather that keeps your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Whether you’re at home, the gym, or exploring a new city, Handso offers a sustainable & convenient way to stay clean. Conserve Energy and Water Leaving the air conditioning on in hotel or BnB rooms because "we paid for it anyway" is a common habit, but it has significant environmental impacts. Small actions truly do add up, especially in destinations where energy and water are limited resources. In energy-challenged destinations like Hawaii, where most energy is imported, turning off unused lights and AC units can reduce electricity strain on the grid and lower emissions. Skipping daily linen changes is another easy way to reduce your environmental impact. Choose hotels with certifications like LEED, Green Key, or EarthCheck. These certifications show that the hotel meets specific standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Follow Local Waste Disposal Guidelines Every destination has its own rules for waste disposal, recycling, and composting. For example, in Japan, waste separation is taken seriously, with specific guidelines for sorting recyclables, compostables, and general waste—often down to separate categories for plastics and papers. If you’re staying in a BnB or vacation rental, asking your host about local recycling and garbage pickup schedules is a great way to ensure proper waste disposal. Many places have specific collection days, In Germany, a color-coded bin system—yellow for plastics and metals, blue for paper, green for glass—ensures proper waste sorting. In Taiwan, a community-based system sees residents bring sorted recyclables directly to collection trucks that play music as a signal. Support Local, Sustainable Shopping When buying souvenirs, choose locally made, sustainably produced items. Picking up a plastic snow globe souvenir in Bali not only is out of place but also adds to plastic pollution (making of and transportation) and often isn't produced locally. Opt for handmade crafts over plastic goods, which often have a high environmental impact. Supporting local artisans helps stimulate local economies and reduces the negative effects of mass production. Sustainable travel doesn’t mean giving up comfort—it means making thoughtful choices that support both convenience and conservation. By choosing eco-friendly products like Handso and making small adjustments to your travel habits, you can explore new places while leaving a lighter footprint. Let’s make this holiday season a celebration of sustainable exploration and mindful choices. References https://oceanliteracy.unesco.org/plastic-pollution-ocean/ https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions https://www.worldwildlife.org/initiatives/plastics https://www.iata.org/en/youandiata/travelers/environment/https://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Zero-use-plasticshttps://www.finnair.com/at-en/bluewings/travel-experience/pack-light---save-fuel-and-make-things-easy-on-yourself--2630894
Learn more
Skincare in Fall/Winter: How to Protect Your Skin
As the colder months roll in, many people experience a noticeable shift in their skin’s condition—dry patches, itchiness, and irritation become daily battles. The reduced humidity and harsh winds strip your skin of moisture, and even your usual skincare routine might feel inadequate. But the good news? Tackling these seasonal skin challenges doesn’t have to be a losing battle. By making a few thoughtful adjustments, you can protect and hydrate your skin all season long. Let’s explore how to keep your skin soft and healthy, even when the cold bites. Rethink Moisturizing: Choose the Right Oils Not all moisturizers are created equal, and some might be doing less for your skin than you think. Mineral oil and petroleum-based products (like petrolatum) are occlusive agents, meaning they create a barrier that locks moisture into the skin but doesn’t provide deep hydration. These are commonly found in products like Vaseline or Aquaphor, which are often used to protect the skin from water loss but can feel heavy or greasy Instead, opt for natural oils that not only lock in moisture but also nourish the skin. Jojoba oil, for example, mimics the skin’s natural oils and contains beneficial fatty acids that help repair the skin barrier. Argan oil and rosehip oil are packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids that soothe dry, irritated skin Scientific studies show that oils rich in linoleic acid, like rosehip oil, help repair the skin barrier and reduce water loss, which is crucial in dry winter conditions. By incorporating these oils into your skincare routine, you’ll protect your skin while nourishing it deeply. Don’t Shower Too Hot While a long, hot shower can feel like a winter luxury, it can actually do more harm than good. Hot water strips away your skin’s natural oils, which worsens dryness and irritation, particularly for those with eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea Studies show that frequent exposure to hot water weakens the skin barrier, leading to increased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)—a key factor in dry winter skin . To prevent this, keep your showers lukewarm and limit them to 10 minutes. Also, moisturize immediately after to lock in the moisture while your skin is still damp. Skip the Shampoo Every Now and Then Your hair and scalp need attention too during the colder months. Cold weather can lead to a drier scalp, causing flakiness, itching, and even dandruff. Shampooing too frequently strips your scalp of its natural oils, exacerbating these issues. Consider switching to a no-shampoo method or co-washing (wash with conditioner only) a few times a week, where you use only conditioner to cleanse your hair. This helps retain the scalp’s natural oils and can lead to healthier hair during winter . Opt for shampoos with natural cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine instead of harsher sulfates, which can dry out both hair and scalp . Turn on the Humidifier Dry indoor air from heating systems is another culprit behind winter skin problems. It depletes the moisture in your skin, leading to that uncomfortable tight, itchy feeling. Running a humidifier adds moisture back into the air, which helps your skin retain its hydration. According to dermatologists, keeping your home’s humidity level around 40% to 60% can significantly reduce winter skin dryness . Using a humidifier while you sleep can make a noticeable difference, not just for your skin, but also for your hair and respiratory health. A tip for parents: lip care for children Winter can be especially difficult for children, and many of them start licking their lips when they feel dry, which only makes the problem worse. This habit can cause lip licking dermatitis, a condition in which the skin around the lips becomes red, irritated and even chapped. To prevent this, keep a lip balm on hand and encourage your child to apply it regularly throughout the day. Look for balms containing soothing ingredients such as shea butter or beeswax, which protect and moisturize lips without harsh chemicals. It's an easy way to avoid discomfort and keep your little one's lips healthy and soft all winter long. Final considerations Skincare in the fall and winter months requires more attention to moisturizing and hydration. By using the right oils, adjusting shower habits, giving your hair the care it needs, and running a humidifier, you can keep your skin soft, hydrated, and irritation-free all winter long. These simple changes will ensure your skin stays healthy, no matter how cold it gets outside. References https://nationaleczema.org/blog/six-tips-for-keeping-eczema-calm-in-winter/ https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-oils-for-skin-5088968 https://www.healthline.com/health/winter-hair-skin-nail-care#skin-tips https://womensconcepts.com/skincare/types-of-moisturizers
Learn more
Sunscreen: Protecting Skin and the Environment
Sunscreen is an essential tool to protect us from skin cancer and premature aging. However, it is important for us to choose sunscreens that protect not only our skin, but also the planet. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the importance of sunscreen, how to select environmentally friendly options, and how to use them effectively. Why Sunscreen is Essential Protects from UV Rays: UVA rays: They penetrate deep into the skin, causing aging and long-term damage. UVB rays: They cause sunburn and are an important risk factor for skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, regular daily use of an SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 40 percent and the risk of melanoma by 50 percent. Understanding SPF Numbers and Use Cases. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. For example, SPF 15 means that it would take 15 times longer to burn than to have no protection at all. SPF 15-29 (Medium Protection): Suitable for daily use in low sun exposure situations, such as commuting or short periods outdoors . SPF 30-49 (High Protection): Recommended for most people during regular outdoor activities such as walking, gardening or light sports. SPF 50+ (Very High Protection): Ideal for prolonged outdoor activities, high altitudes or for those with fair skin and a history of skin cancer. This SPF level provides additional protection but still needs to be reapplied regularly. Choosing Sunscreen for Children The choice of skin cleansing tool is equally important. Between sponge, loofah and Handso, which one is best? Opt for Physical Sunscreens: Children's skin is sensitive and more prone to irritation from chemical sunscreens. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are ideal. Broad Spectrum and SPF 30 or Higher: Make sure the sunscreen offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of 30 is the minimum recommended for effective protection. Water-Resistant Formulas: Children are often active and sweat a lot, so water-resistant sunscreens are crucial for maintaining protection during play. Ease of Application: Sprays and sticks can be easier to apply on shaken children and ensure even coverage. Environmental Impact of Sunscreens Harmful Chemicals: Oxybenzone and octinoxate are known to cause coral bleaching and harm marine life even at low concentrations. Coral Safe Alternatives: Opt for sunscreens labeled safe for corals, which generally use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients do not harm corals or marine ecosystems. Legislation and Impact: Places like Hawaii and Palau have banned sunscreens containing harmful chemicals to protect their corals. Using coral-safe sunscreens supports these conservation efforts and reduces the overall impact. How to Identify Safe Sunscreens for Corals Key Ingredients: Look for mineral-based ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Avoid chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate and others known to harm marine life. Certifications and Labels: Choose sunscreens with certifications from organizations such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or those labeled as safe for corals. Check the ingredient list to make sure they do not contain harmful chemicals. Conclusions Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial to protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and reducing your environmental impact. By understanding SPF numbers, applying sunscreen correctly, and opting for coral-safe options, you can enjoy the sun responsibly and contribute to the preservation of our planet's delicate marine life. Summary in Points Importance of Sunscreen: Protects against UVA and UVB rays, reduces the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Understanding SPF: SPF measures protection against UVB rays; higher SPF numbers provide more protection but must be reapplied regularly. Types of Sunscreens: Chemical (oxybenzone, octinoxate) vs. Physical (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). Choice for Children: Opt for physical sunscreens, broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, water-resistant formulas and ease of application. Environmental Impact: Harmful chemicals cause coral bleaching; safe alternatives for corals use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Learn more
Skin care after sun exposure
Summer is here and with it the desire to enjoy the sun. But how can we take care of our skin after sun exposure? Here are some useful tips: Effects of the Sun on Untanned Skin Unprotected exposure to the sun can cause skin damage that accumulates over time, leading to premature aging and skin lesions such as sun spots, allergies, and even cancer. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause damage at the molecular level and photoallergy reactions. In the long term, they are responsible for some of the major skin changes such as wrinkle formation, loss of tone, gray complexion, and photosensitization phenomena. Cleansing the Skin After the First Sun After a day in the sun, the skin needs to be cleaned gently and thoroughly. The use of specific soaps can help remove impurities without drying out the skin. These soaps should have a few key features: Glycerin: Glycerin is a natural humectant that helps retain moisture on the skin. This can be especially helpful after sun exposure when the skin may tend to dry out. Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, aloe vera can help calm the skin after sun exposure. In addition, aloe vera can help prevent free radical damage due to its antioxidant properties. Chamomile: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help reduce skin redness and irritation after sun exposure. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can nourish and moisturize the skin. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help keep the skin clean. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin from free radical damage. In addition, it can help keep the skin hydrated and promote skin healing. Which Tool to Use? The choice of skin cleansing tool is equally important. Between sponge, loofah and Handso, which one is best? Sponge: This is the most common option, but it can be too aggressive for sun-sensitized skin. If the sponge is not properly cleaned or too much pressure is applied during use, it can cause skin irritation such as redness, itching or even contact dermatitis. Luffa: This is a natural option, but can be too exfoliating if the skin is reddened or irritated. Handso: It is the gentlest option, ideal for sensitive skin. In addition, Handso is easy to use and clean, making it an excellent choice for summer skin care. Tanned Skin Care Tanned skin also needs specific care. After sun exposure, it is important to continue to moisturize the skin and use products with calming active ingredients. In addition, the use of a good cleansing tool such as Handso can help maintain the tan longer. Active Principles of Soaps for Tanned Skin For tanned skin, soaps should contain the following active ingredients: Carotenoids: Including beta-carotene, astaxanthin, lycopene, and lutein, which play a key role in promoting a healthy tan by counteracting the formation of free radicals. Vitamins: Including A, C and E. Minerals: Such as zinc, selenium, copper and magnesium. Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Shea Butter and Mango: All of these moisturizing extracts and molecules keep surface cells healthy and restore water levels that would otherwise decrease with sun exposure. Active Principles of Soaps for Tanned Skin For tanned skin, it is important to use gentle cleaning tools. Here are some tips: Avoid baths that are too hot or prolonged: hot water can cause color loss. Do not use products that are too harsh: such as harsh soaps or alcohol-based cleansers that can dry out the skin and reduce the duration of the tan. Gentle exfoliation: do a light scrub once or twice a week using gentle scrubs that do not irritate the skin. Gently massage the exfoliant into damp skin while in the shower and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. - Visit the Patients.com article for more information. In conclusion, skin care after sun exposure is essential to maintain healthy skin and a lasting tan. Remember to gently cleanse your skin, moisturize it and use the right cleansing tools.
Learn more
5 Ways to go green | Revamp Your Bathroom for Sustainability
Are you ready to transform your bathroom into an eco-friendly sanctuary? Discover these impactful tips that not only benefit the environment but also elevate your daily routine: 1. Sustainable Haircare Solution Make the switch from plastic bottles to concentrated shampoo and conditioner bars. Not only do they reduce waste, but they also provide long-lasting benefits for your hair and the planet. -> How to choose a solid shampoo 2. Sustainable Oral Care Say goodbye to traditional plastic toothbrushes and dental floss. Embrace silk floss and bamboo toothbrushes for a gentle yet eco-conscious dental routine. These sustainable choices not only keep your smile bright but also reduce plastic waste with every brush and floss. -> Switch to toothpaste tablets 3. Greener Toilet Choices Opt for toilet paper made from bamboo or 100% recycled materials. This small yet impactful swap saves trees and minimizes waste in your daily bathroom routine. Learn about the benefits of eco-friendly toilet paper and how it contributes to a greener future for our planet. -> 5 Eco-friendly Rolls According to Business Insider 4. Conscious Showering Enhance your shower experience with eco-conscious choices. Install an energy-efficient showerhead to cut down water usage without compromising on pressure. Take it a step further by incorporating Handso, a sustainable soap holder that reduces plastic bottle waste and extends the life of your soap bars. -> Handso 5. Natural Environment Elevate your bathroom ambiance with natural cleaning solutions and air-purifying plants. Discover the power of natural cleaning agents and the benefits of incorporating air-purifying plants for a fresher, healthier bathroom environment. Embrace the natural essence of your space and create a calming oasis right in your own home. -> The best plants for the bathroom
Learn more
Overcoming obsessive compulsive skin disorder: how Handso transformed my skin care routine
My experience with Handso really changed my skin care and my confidence. I have a type of obsessive compulsive disorder where I tease my skin. Any imperfection: pimples, bumps, scabs, etc. I also have Follicular Keratosis, which causes many bumps and clogged pores. It is a continuous cycle: scabs, scab collection, and so on. I am very aware of this and often feel like a walking scab. Handso's gentle exfoliation really helped me reduce the blemishes of Keratosis Follicularis.I recently went on a two-week trip, with all the outdoor activities I had planned and the associated sweating, I was worried about flare-ups that would increase my OCD. Carrying Handso with me and being able to use my soap was a real boon. We stayed in a different hotel almost every night and every day I could easily put Handso in my bag. I am so grateful that I was able to maintain my skin care routine consistently while running up and down in another country. Written with ❤️ From one of our beloved clients: Tess Stilwell
Learn more