Sofia's blog • SOFIA LATIF®

Sofia 23/07/2021 Healthy Living

Is Matcha Better For You Than Coffee?

Most of us try to lead a healthy lifestyle but sometimes we are looking for that quick energy boost to kick start our morning or to keep us going later in the day. In these times, coffee is probably your go-to for the caffeine ‘hit’. While it does provide the body with a number of benefits and for …

Fozia Latif 15/07/2021 Hero Oils

Hydrate and Restore with Meadowfoam Seed Oil

Ever heard of meadowfoam seed oil? If not, it might be something to consider for the spot of hydration hero in your skincare routine. Native to the USA and Canada and pressed from the seeds of the white meadowfoam plant, meadowfoam seed oil is beginning to gain popularity for its dual lightweight quality and ability to pack a hydrating punch.&…

Sofia 09/07/2021 Best of Natural

Best Natural Face Masks For Sensitive Skin

Face masks are a great way to give skin a much-needed boost. Maybe your skin is a bit dull and lacklustre, so you would reach for a radiance mask, or perhaps your skin is dry, then you would reach for a hydrating one. It might be that you don’t like using exfoliators, so you would reach for one …

Sofia 08/07/2021 Healthy Living

Tips On Shifting Our Energy To Shift Our Mindset

Feeling flat, stuck in a rut, demotivated, and generally low in energy can hit us at any time, no matter how hard we try to prevent it. It’s not a pleasant feeling and it can be difficult to overcome initially, but it is possible. Although it is part of the ebb and flow of life, we can help …

Fozia Latif 01/07/2021 Useful to know

The Tradition And Skincare Techniques Of Gua sha

Also known as ‘coining,’ Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique, traditionally practiced on the body but now more commonly known in the West as a method of relaxing and reviving stiff neck and facial muscles. It’s an alternative therapy recommended for reducing inflammation and stimulating blood flow, and while the benefits are yet to …

Sofia 25/06/2021 Healthy skin

Should You Change Your Skincare In The Summer?

This summer’s schizophrenia has us all searching for ways we can feel cooler and lighter one minute and wrapping up warm the next. When it comes to the warmer weather, we change what we consume – eating something lighter and drinking something more refreshing and hydrating, so why not apply this approach to our skincare in the summer …

Fozia Latif 17/06/2021 Healthy skin

A Guide To Your Skin During Menopause

Usually occurring between 45-55 years of age, the period of menopause succeeds perimenopause and officially begins one year after a woman’s last period. It often comes with changes, related to hormone fluctuations. When it comes to our skin, many women feel unsure about how to manage changes like dryness and breakouts. This post is here to guide you …

Sofia 11/06/2021 Healthy skin

How To Make The Most Of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is the darling of the skincare industry but did you know it is not actually an acid? In this post we’ll be revealing some of the science behind how it works, its skin benefits and how you can make sure you’re getting the best from it… SO WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID AND WHAT …

Sofia 10/06/2021 Healthy skin

Could Your Hyaluronic Acid Be Making Your Skin Drier?

For years, hyaluronic acid has been the darling of the beauty industry but more recently, it’s been surrounded by controversy that it could well be causing more harm than good. Today we’re looking at both sides of the debate and sharing our advice on using this popular product… THE ‘FOR’ ARGUMENT Hyaluronic acid …

Fozia Latif 03/06/2021 Healthy skin

Your Skincare Routine – A Chance To Mindfully Unwind

At the end of a busy day, a little self-care can go a long way to restoring your energy and lifting your mood, so you can better take care of yourself and others. Just as you might cook a meal or go for a run to give yourself space to slow down, your skincare routine is another opportunity to unwind&…

Sofia 28/05/2021 Healthy Living

Our Five Tips For Summer Wellbeing

Many of us are hoping to go on a holiday abroad this year – a week, maybe two, to enjoy the warmer weather before it’s time to start putting on those layers, getting out those deeply nourishing products and cooking up those toasty, comforting meals. But with the way things are at the moment that none of …

Fozia Latif 20/05/2021 Healthy skin

A Guide To Your Skin During Perimenopause

When it comes to perimenopause, many women feel unsure about what to expect, especially when it’s related to changes in their skin. It’s particularly difficult to navigate when there’s little mainstream conversation on the subject too. That’s why we’re here, to provide you with information, education and to carry on …

Fozia Latif 06/05/2021 Healthy skin

Are Hormones to Blame for Post 40s Breakouts?

For many women over 40 sudden skin breakouts, usually associated with teenagers, would be enough to have them reaching for the lotions. But don’t apply them just yet. While breakouts are a barely spoken symptom of perimenopause, they are just one of many challenges characterised by significant fluctuations in hormone levels. We know that the perimenopause is a huge …

Sofia 22/04/2021 Healthy Scalp

The Science and Beauty of Grey Hair

While some women take a shine to their strands of silver, there are many more of us who frantically stock up on the DIY re-touch kits in fear of our first grey hair. So, what’s all the fuss about and how can we navigate this stage in the ageing process with more positivity than panic? Let’s …

Sofia 16/04/2021 Healthy Living

Morning Routines That Make Your Day

We’ve likely established a morning routine this past year that works for our unique needs, and now we are coming out of lockdown retaining the routine we have created feels even more important as we return to a new normal. There is lots of advice from people who set their alarm clock to start their day at 5…

Sofia 16/04/2021 Useful to know

The minimal skincare routine you can get away with

As more of us are embracing slow living and self care in favour of our old hectic lifestyles, similar trends have become more prevalent with our skincare choices. It seems that as women, we’re no longer just looking to simplify our beauty regime because we’re so short of time, but rather we’re thinking more …

Sofia 09/04/2021 Healthy skin

How To Get Rid Of Keratosis Pilaris On Arms And Legs

Layers of clothing are coming off now that we are heading out of winter and into warmer weather, and arms and legs are coming out of hibernation, with skin more visible to our own keen eyes. Is skin appearing bumpy and looking like chicken skin? Are scattered, patchy rashes of very small bumps or pimples appearing on the skin&…

Sofia 25/03/2021 Healthy skin

Moisturisers With SPF vs A Separate SPF

It’s getting brighter, with more sunny days coming. Thoughts turn to spending more time outdoors, and the need for more SPF in our routines to protect our skin from sun damage. Is it enough to use moisturisers with SPF or is it better to have a separate SPF? Let’s take a look at the pros …

Sofia 19/03/2021 Useful to know

Spring Clean Your Beauty & Wellbeing Routine

It feels like we are coming out of a double hibernation with the easing of lockdown and winter moving firmly behind us, and with the Spring flowers and sunshine comes a sense of excitement and possibility. Spring is a wonderful season to birth new morning habits and spring clean your home, beauty and wellbeing routine. With lighter mornings helping us&…

Sofia 12/03/2021 Healthy Scalp

Tips For Supporting Healthy Hair Growth

At some point, we’ve all longed for our hair to grow quickly, for it to be less dry or less prone to breakage. For most of us, the first thought is to turn to products as the solution, pinning our hopes on shampoos, conditioners and treatments with promises to make a visible difference in just a few …

Sofia 05/03/2021 Healthy skin

How plant oils strengthen the skin barrier – Part Two

In part one we looked at what the skin barrier does, how it works and introduced the role of plant oils in strengthening it. But which plant oils are particularly important for supporting normal skin function? We’ll be sharing some of the most effective ones in today’s post… 5 OF THE BEST PLANT OILS FOR …

Sofia 05/03/2021 Healthy skin

How plant oils strengthen the skin barrier – Part one

The skin barrier has such an important role in maintaining happy and healthy skin but how can we care for it for optimum strength? In this two part series we’ll be exploring both aspects, with a particular focus on our favourite ingredients – plant oils… WHAT IS THE SKIN BARRIER? The skin has three main …

Sofia 25/02/2021 Ethical choices

Cruelty-Free Alternatives For Silk Pillowcases

Silk pillowcases are a saviour for curly hair. They’re said to help with keeping hair frizz-free, tug less on the skin and some believe they’re great for letting skin retain its moisture (but the jury is out on this one). Bamboo pillowcases are growing in popularity too but can they replace the feel of silk? &…

Sofia 18/02/2021 Healthy skin

The Skin Microbiome – What Is It And How To Support It?

Maintaining healthy bacteria in our gut, also called our microbiome, has become the norm helping to support our overall health. Skin microbiome is becoming increasingly important in maintaining healthy and balanced skin. But what is the skin microbiome and what can we do to support it? WHAT IS THE SKIN MICROBIOME? The skin is the largest organ your&…

Sofia 12/02/2021 Healthy skin

Understanding Acids in Skincare – AHAs and BHAs

Are you confused by acids, how to use them and what to look out for? It is important to exfoliate skin and acids are one way to introduce exfoliators into your routine. Not everybody’s skin can tolerate acid – particularly those with extremely dry or sensitive skin – and some like our Founder can’t use …

Fozia Latif 04/02/2021 Useful to know

Layering Your Skincare Products For The Best Results

One debate we see often is whether a face oil should be used before or after a moisturiser. Which side do you sit on? In today’s post, we’re going to be sharing how to layer your skincare to get the most from each of your products and leave you with happy, healthy skin. …

Fozia Latif 28/01/2021 Hero Oils

Revitalise Hair With Black Seed Oil

Black Seed Oil has a fascinating history. The ancient wisdom from the traditional uses of this plant-based product has since been tapped into and today we are able to reap its many benefits. A hero ingredient in our Scalp Oil, Black Seed Oil is perfect for revitalising hair and promoting hair growth… WHAT IS BLACK SEED …

Sofia 20/01/2021 Inflammation series

Antioxidants And Our Skin

Today we are continuing with our Inflammation series, focusing on antioxidants – what they are, how they help prevent inflammation, their other functions, why we need to supplement our body’s natural antioxidants and the best sources… WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS? We touched on their anti-inflammatory action in our post, Inflammation and Its Impact on Skin. Antioxidants …

Sofia 13/01/2021 Inflammation series

Inflammation And Its Impact On Skin

Inflammation is something we hear about all the time, and how it can have a negative impact on our health if not managed correctly. In today’s post we talk about what it is and how to support your body in managing it and reducing it. Inflammation is the body’s natural immune response to foreign bodies …

Sofia 12/01/2021 Best of Natural

Best Natural And Vegan Hand Creams For Sensitive Skin

We do so much with our hands. They are an invaluable tool but also one of the most vulnerable parts of our body. And as we follow the guidance from the World Health Organisation to prevent the spread of COVID-19, they may be left feeling rather more sensitive at the moment. So we’ve curated our top picks …

Sofia 06/01/2021 Healthy Living

How Sugar Impacts The Health Of Our Skin

We already know a high sugar diet causes issues with the health of our bodies but have you ever thought about the impact it has on our skin? Many of us enjoy chocolate, sweets, biscuits, cakes, desserts, fizzy drinks and more, with some of us even referring to ourselves as having “a sweet tooth”! And while it&…

Sofia 02/01/2021 Useful to know

Is A Detox Worth It For Healthy Skin And Hair?

*Spoiler alert* it all depends on what is meant by a detox. It’s that time of year when we give ourselves a hard time for being indulgent over the festive period, and we go on a detox as a counterbalance. A detox means different things to different people; for some, it’s giving up certain foods …

Sofia 27/12/2020 Healthy Living

Our Five Tips For Restoring Balance After An Indulgent Few Days

We know that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are going to be very different this year. Workplace parties have been swapped for virtual events and meals out have been stripped back to be with just a few of our closest colleagues, friends or family, where restrictions allow. Everyone will be enjoying festivities in smaller groups or alone, …

Sofia 17/12/2020 Healthy skin

The Best Way To Use A Face Oil

We are often asked what is the best way to use a face oil. It is something we love talking about, as you can imagine! In a nutshell, there is no best way to use a face oil, just your way which you are most comfortable with when including it in your routine. Face oils are versatile and can&…

Sofia 10/12/2020 Sofia's blog

Getting Skin And Hair Ready For Winter’s Bite

Winter is certainly here. The temperature has dropped, the wind can be pretty harsh and snow has been forecast for some parts of the country. But adapting for seasonal changes doesn’t just mean changing from lightweight clothes to layers, sandals to slippers, fans to fires or cold drinks to hot chocolates. We need to make some tweaks …

Sofia 03/12/2020 Healthy Living

Forest Bathing And Its Benefits

More than ever, more of us are enjoying walking for pleasure, exploring our local areas and reconnecting with the simple joys in life. But are we fully paying attention and soaking in our surroundings? At SOFIA LATIF, we support any form of connection with nature so today we want to introduce you to forest bathing – which despite the&…

Sofia 26/11/2020 Hero Oils

Give Hair Life With Baobab Seed Oil

With Argan Oil marketed as the hero ingredient in so many skin and hair care products now available, it’s easy to overlook some of the alternatives that too can leave you with luscious locks. Today we’re shining the spotlight on Baobab Seed Oil – a similar ingredient, but one which comes without the heaviness associated …

Sofia 19/11/2020 Useful to know

How Long Should You Use Skincare Before Giving Up?

We are living in an era of instant gratification, where we want things now, sometimes jumping in with both feet and expecting quick results. But when it comes to our skin, any product or routine changes we make require patience to fully reap the benefits. SKINCARE IS MORE THAN JUST THE PRODUCTS Skincare is more than just the&…

Sofia 12/11/2020 Sofia's blog

How To Keep On Top Of Your Wellbeing

For many of us, this is shaping up to be a winter like no other. In the middle of another national lockdown and swiftly approaching the festive season, we’re full of uncertainty instead of the usual Christmas cheer. We don’t know if or when we will be able to get together with our families and …

Sofia 05/11/2020 Sofia's blog

The Role Of Vitamin E In Skin And Scalp Care

Alongside A and C, vitamin E is another vitamin that is a focus in beauty products. It is found in our bodies, in foods and as supplements, but it’s also the most common ingredient found in skincare and hair care products today. With eight types – including pure vitamin E oil, tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate – ‘…

Sofia 29/10/2020 Hero Oils

Get To Know Squalane

Most suited to those with dry or combination skin (but can be used for all skin types), our next hero oil, squalane is a multi-purpose, lightweight oil that can help to seal in moisture on the scalp, face and body. We’re starting this post by covering the difference between squalane and squalene – two commonly confused compounds &…

Sofia 22/10/2020 Sofia's blog

The Role Of Vitamin A In Skin And Scalp Care

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for the body, playing multiple roles in skin and scalp care. There are two types of vitamin A – retinoids (preformed) and carotenoids (proformed). Both types are converted by the liver to a derivative called retinol. If it isn’t used immediately, it’s stored by the body or transported via …

Sofia 15/10/2020 Hero Oils

Strengthen Strands With Organic Hemp Seed Oil

Organic hemp seed oil – not to be confused with hemp oil – comes from cold pressing the seeds of the Cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike hemp oil, hemp seed oil doesn’t contain any cannabidiol (CBD) – the compound commonly used as pain relief and in anxiety treatment – or any tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the psychoactive compound that …

Sofia 07/10/2020 Healthy skin

I Have Oily Skin. Can I Use A Face Oil?

Face oil has many benefits, from repairing the skin’s barrier to helping seal in moisture. But with it seeming counterintuitive to add more oil to oily or combination skin, it’s unsurprising that we get asked a lot whether face oil should really be used for these skin types. The short answer? YES! As although you …

Sofia 01/10/2020 Healthy Living

Getting Ready For Autumn, The Slow Living Way

It certainly feels like autumn is late to start this year. The days may be getting shorter and it is getting darker earlier in the evenings, but the weather has been unseasonably warm. Yet the season of crispy leaves underfoot and a chill in the air will arrive soon enough, with cosy evenings, layers and hot chocolates becoming our&…

Sofia 24/09/2020 Useful to know

The Role Of Vitamin C In Skin And Scalp Care

Another wonder ingredient making the headlines lately, Vitamin C – an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) also called Ascorbic Acid – is a water-soluble vitamin which plays multiple roles within the body. Despite its importance, it’s not something stored in the body, therefore it’s important that we provide it through consumption and topical application. Today we&…

Sofia 17/09/2020 Hero Oils

Stimulate Collagen Production With Tamanu Seed Oil

Tamanu seed oil, commonly known as ‘Beauty Leaf Oil’, is one of the hero oils in our Body Oil, selected for its role in boosting the production of collagen in skin. Can we stimulate this essential protein in our bodies by using plant-based, vegan-friendly ingredients? We think so! WHAT IS COLLAGEN AND HOW DO WE SUPPORT …

Sofia 10/09/2020 Healthy Living

Making Slow Living Permanent

We love slow living. It is a conscious choice we make each day so that we can live life as fully as possible and appreciate every moment. Being present allows us to remain balanced in mood and wellbeing, feeling connected to ourselves and the world around us. When the pandemic hit, it forced many to slow down and embrace&…

Sofia 27/08/2020 Healthy Living

Could Drinking More Water Be The Solution To Our Dry Skin And Scalp Woes?

It is so easy to confuse dehydrated skin for dry skin, and the same can be true for a dry scalp. Before looking at which of the products we are using could be the problem, our first port of call is to check our hydration levels. Water is vital for human health. Our body needs water in order to&…

Sofia 06/08/2020 Healthy skin

Natural ways to reduce dark circles under eyes

Dark circles. One day they’re not too bad, other days they are prominent and nothing seems to help. Most commonly associated with fatigue, the shadows under the lower eyelids can actually exist for a number of different reasons. Understanding what causes them to appear will help you take steps to prevent them. Here are our tips for naturally …