GRANDMA'S Blog

Do You Have Normal or Oily Skin? Decoding Your Skin Type

Your skin is your body's largest organ, and its condition can greatly impact your overall health and confidence. Whether you've been dealing with skincare issues for years or you're just starting to pay attention to your skin's needs, understanding your skin type is a crucial first step in achieving a radiant complexion. Let's explore the characteristics of normal and oily skin type to help you determine which category your skin falls into. 

So, do you have normal or oily skin? Let's find out.

Normal Skin: Signs and Characteristics

Normal skin is often referred to as the "ideal" skin type because it is well-balanced. Here are some signs and characteristics that may indicate you have normal skin:

• Balanced Moisture: Normal skin maintains an optimal balance of moisture without feeling excessively dry or oily.

• Minimal Imperfections: You may have few to no blemishes, blackheads, or noticeable pores.

• Smooth Texture: Normal skin typically has a smooth and even texture, with minimal roughness or flakiness.

• Comfortable Feel: Your skin feels comfortable and rarely experiences tightness, dryness, or excessive shine.

• Radiant Appearance: Normal skin often has a natural, healthy glow.

Oily Skin: Signs and Symptoms

Oily skin, on the other hand, is characterized by an excess production of sebum (the skin's natural oil). Here are some signs that may indicate you have oily skin:

• Shine: Oily skin often appears shiny, particularly on the forehead, nose, and chin—the infamous T-zone.

• Enlarged Pores: The excess oil can make your pores appear larger and more noticeable.

• Frequent Breakouts: Oily skin is more prone to acne, including blackheads and whiteheads.

• Skin Texture: You might notice a thicker, somewhat rough texture on the surface of your skin.

• Makeup Meltdown: Makeup tends to slide off more easily on oily skin, especially Determining Your Skin Type

To determine your skin type, you can perform a simple at-home test:

• Cleanse: Begin with a clean face, ensuring that you've removed all makeup and skincare products.

• Wait: Give your skin about an hour to return to its natural state, avoiding touching your face during this time.

• Observe: After an hour, closely examine your skin. Is it noticeably shiny and how does the texture of your skin feel? 

Tailoring Your Skincare Routine

At Grandma’s, we offer acne bars for oily and normal skin! Whatever skin type you are, we have you covered! 

Understanding your skin type is the first step towards achieving healthy, radiant skin. Whether you have normal or oily skin, a consistent skincare routine that caters to your skin's specific needs will help you achieve the complexion you desire. Remember that individual variations exist, and your skin type may change over time due to factors like age, climate, and lifestyle. If you're uncertain about your skin type or have unique skincare concerns, consulting a dermatologist can provide valuable insights and recommendations for your skincare journey.

As parents, we want nothing but the best for our little ones, especially when it comes to their delicate skin. Babies have sensitive and developing skin, making them more vulnerable to the harmful effects of chemicals found in many everyday products. That's why choosing chemical-free soap for your baby is not just a preference but a necessity. At Grandma's, we understand the importance of providing the purest and gentlest products for your precious bundles of joy. That is why we add products to our Baby Bar like Calendula, a flower  known for its’ healing properties as it has been used to soothe skin for centuries. 

The Vulnerable Skin of Babies

Babies are born with skin that is thinner and more porous than adult skin, making it more susceptible to absorption of toxins and irritants. The protective barrier of their skin is still developing, and it takes time for it to become as robust as that of an adult. This means that whatever we put on our baby's skin can have a profound impact on their overall health and well-being.

The Benefits of Chemical-Free Soaps

Choosing chemical-free soap for your baby can make a significant difference in their skin health and overall well-being. Here are some compelling benefits:

• Gentle on Skin: Chemical-free soaps, like the ones offered at Grandma's, are formulated with natural ingredients that are gentle and soothing, perfect for your baby's delicate skin.
• Reduced Risk of Irritation: By eliminating harsh chemicals, you reduce the risk of skin irritation, redness, and discomfort.
• Nourishing: Chemical-free soaps often contain nourishing ingredients such as natural oils, shea butter, and aloe vera, which can help keep your baby's skin soft and moisturized.

When it comes to caring for your baby, making the right choices are crucial. Opting for chemical-free soap is a simple yet powerful decision that can have a lasting impact on your baby's health and comfort. At Grandma's, we take pride in offering chemical-free products that are lovingly crafted for your little ones. Give your baby the gentle care they deserve, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're making the best choices for their well-being.

 The Importance of Chemical-Free and Skin-Friendly Cleansing

In our pursuit of cleanliness and hygiene, the soap we use plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. However, not all soaps are created equal. Many commercially available soaps contain a cocktail of chemicals, skin irritants, and detergents that can be harmful in the long run, At Grandma’s we care about your health which is why we offer soaps that have no added chemicals, detergents, or skin irritations! 

Let’s  explore the significance of using soaps with no added chemicals, no skin irritants, or detergents, and understand why making the switch to natural soaps is a beneficial choice for our well-being.

1. Nurturing Skin Health

The skin is our body's largest organ and serves as a protective barrier against external elements. Harsh chemicals found in some soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, disrupt its pH balance, and compromise its integrity. Opting for soaps with natural ingredients allows us to cleanse our skin without causing irritation or dryness. 

2. Avoiding Harmful Chemicals

The rise of commercial products introduced a myriad of synthetic additives such as parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. These chemicals can have adverse effects on our health, potentially leading to skin allergies, hormone disruption, and even contributing to environmental pollution. By choosing soaps free from added chemicals, we safeguard ourselves from potential harm and reduce our impact on the environment.

3. Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Many individuals suffer from sensitive skin, making it challenging to find suitable cleansing products. Soaps containing skin irritants and harsh detergents can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Natural soaps, on the other hand, are generally free from irritants, making them a safe and gentle option for those with sensitive skin. The absence of harsh chemicals allows for a soothing bathing experience, reducing redness, itching, and discomfort.

In a world flooded with products filled with chemicals and skin irritants, it's vital to pause and reconsider the soap we use daily. Embracing soaps with no added chemicals or detergents offers a myriad of benefits, ranging from healthier skin to reduced environmental impact. By making this conscious shift in our self-care routine, we not only protect our skin but also support sustainable practices and promote a more compassionate approach to personal care. So, let us choose the simplicity and goodness of chemical-free soaps and pave the way towards a healthier, happier future for ourselves. Choose Grandma's. 

We know how hard it is to shop for holiday gifts. Grandma created this holiday gift guide to help you choose thoughtful gifts for your friends and family. Avoid long lines and shop online with Grandma.

For the person who has everything (including dry winter skin)

Some people are hard to shop for. For the friend that has everything and dry skin, give them the gift of great skincare. We recommend Grandma's Winter Dry Itchy Skin Kit! It comes with everything you need to help soothe itchy skin caused by the cool air of winter. The perfect kit to help relieve skin!

For Your “Sensitive” Friends 

Grandma knows how frustrating dry, ashy and itchy skin can be. Did you know that many of the regular soap and laundry products bought at the store leach moisture out of skin? Regular detergents stay on clothes after they are washed and irritate sensitive skin types. Grandma’s Dry Itchy Skin Gift Set is the perfect gift for those looking for sensitive skin solutions.

It is also a great gift for those simply looking for a solution to winter dryness.

For The Lady in Your Life

It’s not easy buying gifts for the women in your life. You may not be able to keep up with their style preferences or what’s “in”. Grandma’s Natural Beauty set means no risk of getting her a gift that’s out of fashion. This gift set contains two Herbal Bars, two goats milk Beauty Bars, Winter Hand Soother Lotion and a Lip Soother.

This is the gift that keeps on giving. Happy skin equals a happy lady.

For Your Teenager

Teens may be looking for the newest, latest and greatest gifts but Grandma knows what they really want is more confidence. This Sports Gift Set has one Acne Bar, two Sports Bars, a Winter Soother Lotion, Shampoo/Shave Bar and Lip Soother. Middle school and high school aren’t easy.

Give your teen the gift of confidence.

For the Adventurer

Adventurers often battle the elements, which dries out skin. Grandma’s Active Gift Set has everything the adventurer in your life needs to fight off bugs while keeping skin healthy. This set has our Lye Soap, Grime Away Bar, Don’t Bug Me Bar, a Sports Bar & a Lip Soother.  

These items are easily stored and ready for action.

For The Person Who Has Everything

There is always one person in your life that seems to have everything. Grandma has the perfect gift recommendation. Our 12 Days of Christmas Herbal Sampler has 12 Try Me sized herbal soaps.

Give your loved one something new to try.

Recommendations from Grandma

Everyday Choices: Lye Soap, Shampoo/Shave, Grime Away, Lotion, Lip Soother, Non-Detergent Laundry Soap

Lady’s Choice: Herbal, Beauty Bar, Peppermint Sports, Lotion, Lip Soother

Men’s Choice: Shampoo/Shave, Lye Soap, Spearmint Sports, Lotion, Lip Soother

We’re challenging you to make yummy treats and fill your home with fragrant scents inspired by Grandma’s 12 Days of Christmas Herbal Gift Set. 

Inspired by Grandma's Baby Rum Bar.

Ingredients

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°.

Combine raisins and rum in a small microwave-safe bowl; microwave at HIGH for 30 seconds. Cool to room temperature.

Weigh or lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour and next 3 ingredients (through salt) in a bowl; stir with a whisk. Place butter in a large bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until smooth. Add oil, 1 cup granulated sugar, rinds, and vanilla; beat at medium speed 3 minutes or until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour mixture and milk alternately to butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Drain raisins through a sieve over a bowl; reserve liquid. Stir raisins into batter. Pour batter into a 10-cup Bundt pan coated with baking spray. Bake at 350° for 40 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes on a wire rack. Remove from pan; place on serving plate.

Combine remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar, corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute. Remove pan from heat; stir in reserved rum. Brush syrup over warm cake. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

 myrecipes.com

Inspired by Grandma's Egyptian Dragon Bar.

Inspired by Grandma's Frankincense & Myrrh Bar.

Inspired by Grandma's Moroccan Spice Bar.

Grandma says take time to be thankful and count your Blessings during the holidays.

We all know our world is a busy place. When you throw in technology, with all your smart phones, tablets and devices, it often feels like 24 hours in a day is not enough.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that means lots of time in the kitchen preparing dinner and lots of side dishes.

Grandma is a practiced hand at preparing things beforehand so that the day of flows smoothly. From preparing treats early to having ingredients organized, Grandma has several tricks to keep the holiday stress at bay. The simple tips below will keep you on track and anxiety free while the family is dreaming of the feast you prepare.

A large dining room table filled with food and the sounds of family talking is a common sight at Grandma’s house this time of year.

This is in and of itself a tradition. What traditions do you carry into Thanksgiving? Do you write down or say things you are thankful for? Do you have a pre-Thanksgiving meal no-eat rule? Do you encourage everyone to eat as much as possible and watch the football game?

There are a lot of interesting and fun ways to have fun with family, and Grandma has a few you might want to add to your festivities this year!

Grandma doesn’t wait for the new year, she uses Fall as a catalyst for change. That’s right, there is still time to finish the year off strong.

If you have been neglecting yourself due to work or a full family schedule, it is the perfect time to reevaluate priorities. Before Thanksgiving travel plans creep up and holiday shopping becomes a burden, evaluate life as it is now. Small changes can have a massive impact on your mood and output. This is not only about taking time for your sanity, but your body as well. This will be vitally important during the upcoming stressful holiday season.

When we think of fall we remember the scents of apple pie, cookies and cinnamon.

Naturally, many of us are picking up our favorite fall scented candles to bring the feeling of fall inside our homes. MoodMedia.com says that 75% of our emotions are influenced by what we smell!