Skin | Earth | Vitality

SummaryIn this episode, Emily Davis discusses facial oils and moisturizers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical composition of oils and how it can affect the skin. She explains the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats and their impact on the skin's barrier function. Emily also addresses the debate around polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and tallow in skincare. She recommends using a blend of oils rather than a single oil and discusses the benefits of moisturizers. Emily concludes by encouraging listeners to make informed choices for their skin and to stay curious.Takeaways* Understanding the chemical composition of oils can help in choosing the right oils for your skin.* Saturated fats provide a protective barrier for the skin, while unsaturated fats are more easily absorbed and support the skin's natural barrier function.* The debate around polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and tallow in skincare requires nuance and consideration of individual skin types and needs.* Using a blend of oils and a hydrosol can be an alternative to creams that contain strong emulsifiers.* Moisturizers are important for maintaining the skin's hydration and should be the last step in a skincare routine.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment03:18 Remembering Danna Omari04:02 Facial Oils and Moisturizers08:19 The Practice of Oil Application20:06 Saturated and Unsaturated Fats24:14 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids29:23 Debate around PUFAs and Tallow31:42 Exploring Tallow38:01 Moisturizers and Creams41:29 Using Oils in Skincare Routine42:24 Conclusion and Next EpisodeLinks:https://stratumaesthetics.com/https://susanmparker.com/Mountain Rose Herbs Affiliate Link This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Join esthetician Emily Davis as she demystifies the world of skincare through her holistic lens. You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop online at https://stratumaesthetics.com/You can find her membership community rootedWELL at: https://rootedwell.circle.so/home* Discussion Highlights:* Tonics/Toners/Mists:* Serve as aqueous solutions post-cleansing.* Prepare skin for absorption of subsequent skincare products.* Offer various benefits like hydration, clarifying, and soothing.* Can replace serums in minimalist skincare routines.* Hydrosols:* Natural aromatic plant waters produced through steam distillation of plants.* Sustainable, gentle alternatives to essential oils in skincare.* Easily made at home using fresh/dried plant materials and basic equipment.* Serums:* Contain higher concentrations of active ingredients.* Various types including retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, and mushrooms.* Considerations for synthetic versus natural sources and their effects on skin health.* Incorporating Tonics and Serums:* Use toner in the morning post-cleansing, followed by serum and moisturizer.* Experiment with different tonics and serums to find what suits individual skin needs.* Layer serums based on consistency and allow time for absorption between layers.* Some ingredients like retinoids and less stable vitamin C derivatives are recommended for nighttime use. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Listen in as holistic esthetician Emily Davis provides valuable insights into the art of exfoliation. Discover how to reframe your approach, support your skin's natural renewal process, and choose the right exfoliation methods for your unique needs. Gain a deeper understanding of skincare that balances science with intuition for glowing, healthy skin.Find Emily’s online curated skin care shop: https://stratumaesthetics.com/Join rootedWELL a community for people who want to reconnect with their vitality through lifestyle practice: https://rootedwell.circle.so/homePurchase herbs at Mountain Rose Herbs: http://aspireiq.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=24&aff_id=10151Key Takeaways:* Reframing Exfoliation: Exfoliation is more than just scrubbing away dead skin; it's about maintaining skin balance and barrier function.* Skin Renewal Process: Envision your skin's renewal as layers of bricks continually renewing, aided by enzymes.* Factors Affecting Skin Sloughing: Aging, hormones, dehydration, and stress can slow skin shedding, necessitating gentle exfoliation.* Supporting Skin Health: Hydrate internally and topically to support natural skin renewal.* Types of Exfoliation: Explore manual and chemical methods with caution, considering their impact on skin health.* Choosing the Right Approach: Consider your skin type, climate, and conditions to tailor exfoliation.* Medications and Exfoliation: Exercise caution with medications like retinoids, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, as they may interact with exfoliants.* Mindful Skincare: Cultivate a deep connection with your skin, focusing on intuitive care rather than rigid routines. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by all of the skincare products or dependent on others to guide your choices, this series is just for you. I’m here to demystify purchasing skincare and help you to make informed decisions by deciphering ingredient decks – the key to unlocking your skincare journey.Holistic Skincare 101: Getting Started with CleansingToday, the focus is on cleansing, the foundational step in any skincare routine. Cleansing isn't just about removing surface impurities; it's a vital process that primes your skin, setting the stage for optimal skincare absorption. Think of it as the first step towards fostering a deeper connection with your body's largest organ – your skin.The Importance of Cleansing:* Removes stagnant oils, pollution, makeup, and other impurities.* Prepares the skin for subsequent skincare products, enhancing their effectiveness.* Allows for tactile exploration of the skin's condition, fostering a deeper understanding of its needs.During a facial, cleansing serves as a pivotal moment for skin analysis, guiding subsequent treatment decisions.Dispelling Beauty Industry Notions:The beauty industry has long perpetuated the notion that our bodies are inherently unclean, fostering a sense of disconnect and reliance on products for validation. However, skincare isn't merely about conforming to societal standards but rather about nurturing our skin's health (and our mental/emotional health).The Ritual of Cleansing:Cleansing isn't a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Here's what your cleansing ritual should entail:* Clean hands and mild water temperature are essential.* Remove makeup before cleansing.* Apply cleanser to dry skin and gently massage, avoiding aggressive scrubbing.* Follow up with a soft cloth for removal.* Opt for once-daily cleansing, preferably in the evening, adjusting based on your skin's needs.Double Cleansing: Is It for You?While some swear by double cleansing, it's not universally necessary. Experimentation is key to determining what works best for your skin type and lifestyle.Exploring Cleanser Types and Ingredients:Different cleansers cater to varying skin types:* Oil Cleansing: Suitable for all skin types, effectively removes impurities while maintaining moisture balance.* Cream Cleansing: Ideal for dry or sensitive skin, it offers nourishing properties without stripping the skin.* Gel Cleanser: Best for oily and combination skin, provides a lightweight, foamy cleanse.* Clay Cleanser: Suited for oily skin, it absorbs excess oil and impurities.* Powder Cleanser: Versatile option for all skin types, activated with water for a gentle cleanse.* Foaming Cleanser: Generally geared towards oily skin, though may be too harsh for some due to its foaming properties.Navigating Ingredient Decks:Understanding ingredient decks is crucial for informed skincare choices:* Familiarize yourself with common skincare ingredients and their purposes.* Prioritize transparency and seek brands with clear ingredient lists.* MY red flag ingredients are: sulfates and multiple surfactants and emulsifiers, fragrances, harsh exfoliants, and harsh synthetic preservatives.* Consider your skin type and concerns when scrutinizing ingredient decks.Choosing the Right Ingredients:Look for cleansers featuring:* Hydrosols or plant waters for gentle cleansing.* Ingredients like honey, enzymes, and herbal infusions for added benefits.* Biodegradable emulsifiers and surfactants to support the skin barrier.Empowering Your Skincare Journey:Armed with knowledge, you're now equipped to navigate the vast landscape of skincare confidently. Embrace the journey, experiment with different products, and prioritize your skin's health above all else. Remember, skincare is not just about outward appearance but also about nurturing a deeper relationship with yourself. Let this series be your guide on this transformative journey towards radiant, healthy skin. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Summary In this episode, Emily Davis introduces the topic of selecting the best skincare for your skin. She emphasizes the importance of empowering yourself in skincare decisions and understanding your own skin. Emily also discusses the significance of lifestyle in achieving lasting change in your skin. Emily provides a crash course on skin types and conditions, as well as the importance of a healthy skin barrier. She concludes by discussing cell-to-cell communication and the role of hydration in skincare.LINKS:rootedWELL Community: https://rootedwell.circle.so/homeStratum Aesthetics: https://stratumaesthetics.com/TakeawaysEmpower yourself in skincare decisions by understanding your own skin and making informed choices.Lifestyle is the foundation for lasting change in your skin. Skincare treatments alone are not enough.Join the RootedWELL Community to reconnect with ancestral practices and seasonal living.Understand your skin type and conditions to make better product selections.Maintain a healthy skin barrier and support cell-to-cell communication and hydration for optimal skin health.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Invitation01:16 Empowering Yourself in Skincare04:05 Skincare as the Frosting, Lifestyle as the Cake08:13 Having Intention in Skincare08:48 Understanding Skin Type and Conditions12:26 Determining Skin Type13:24 Skin Conditions21:01 Understanding the Skin Barrier24:53 Cell-to-Cell Communication and Hydration This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this heartfelt Valentine’s-season episode of Skin Earth Vitality, Emily explores the deep connection between the physical and energetic heart, and how plants can help us care for both.
Valentine’s Day can stir up many emotions: love, nostalgia, even grief. For Emily, it’s also the heavenly birthday of her beloved soul dog, whose memory reminds her of how the heart holds both tenderness and ache. In this episode, she invites you to reconnect with your heart — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — through the wisdom of herbs known as heart-openers.
You’ll learn how these plants have been used across cultures to soothe anxiety, lift mood, and strengthen circulation. Emily explains the Doctrine of Signatures: the idea that a plant’s shape, color, and nature reveal its healing gifts,  and shows how many heart-supportive herbs also nourish the skin through improved blood flow, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory actions.
✨ In this episode:
The connection between emotional health and heart function
How to make herbal medicine accessible in your own life
What “heart medicine” really means in herbalism
The Doctrine of Signatures and how plants mirror the heart
How circulatory herbs also support radiant, healthy skin
🌿 10 Heart-Opening Herbs to Explore:Rose • Hawthorn • Wild Cherry Bark • Damiana • Cacao • Linden • Tulsi (Holy Basil) • Motherwort • (and more...)
Each herb offers its own unique expression of love, warmth, and vitality — from calming the nervous system to improving circulation and uplifting the spirit.
✨ Mentioned Resources:
The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook by James Green
The Modern Herbal Dispensatory by Thomas Easley & Steven Horne
Mountain Rose Herbs • Pacific Botanicals • Local apothecaries and herb farms
💗 Explore More:Find Emily’s holistic skincare, seasonal workshops, and herbal resources at stratumaesthetics.com.

In the first episode of Skin Earth Vitality, Emily explores the emotional and energetic power of facial massage — a timeless ritual of self-love, balance, and restoration.
Facial massage isn’t just a beauty practice; it’s an ancient act of devotion rooted in healing traditions from China to Egypt. Through mindful touch, we can quiet the mind, calm the nervous system, and reconnect to the body’s natural intelligence.
In this episode, Emily shares how facial massage supports emotional release, lowers stress hormones, balances energy flow, and cultivates a deeper sense of presence. You’ll learn how this nightly ritual can help you unwind, reset your energy, and prepare for restful sleep.
By the end, you’ll feel inspired to bring this sacred practice into your bedtime routine tonight — not for perfection, but for presence.
✨ Mentioned in this episode:
How facial massage supports the nervous system and emotional well-being
The connection between facial meridians and energetic balance
Why touch is one of the most powerful forms of self-care
🌿 Find more ways to integrate facial massage and holistic skincare at stratumaesthetics.com.

Join your favorite holistic esthetician and herbalist as we unlock the secrets of ancient skincare practices and explore the beauty of seasonal living, herbalism, and TRUE holistic well-being for you and the broader ecosystem.This trailer is a sneak peek at what is to come! Get ready for a podcast that was made to not only nourish your skin, but your soul! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com