Opinion Archives - Made By Risch

The 10-Step Skincare Routine That Changed My Life

Just Kidding – I Mean, Do You Really NEED 7 Products for Your Face Every Night? These days, walking down the skincare aisle or scrolling online can feel like navigating a maze. You are bombarded with serums, essences, toners, boosters, facial mists, eye creams, overnight masks, face oils… the list is never-ending. And the message? You must use them all—layer by layer, a full 10-step skincare routine, every night—if you want glowing skin. Or if you want to age gracefully. Better yet, if you don’t want to age at all. Using faces of famous Hollywood actresses who probably don’t even use the products their faces are paid to sell… Really? Let’s be honest. Somewhere along the way, skincare turned into a full-time job. Who has 30 minutes before bed to slather their faces with layers of creams? Who has 10? But aside from the time, is it really necessary to have a full 10-step skincare routine for your face before bed? Do they actually work? And even if they do, do they work together? Or do they just rub off on your pillow while you sleep? Or do you have to wait some more for all the creams to absorb? I apologize for my ignorance, if I am speaking without knowledge. My research for my products were exactly to minimize the amount of products you need to use, and thereby minimizing the time it takes to apply them. So I did not research all the available products or how they should be used before writing this article. (Note: this is an opinion piece, not a research paper.) But one of the reasons I wanted to minimize the amount of products, is because I did try a multi-step, multi-layer facial routine once. Trust me, by the end of the first week I was already skipping half the stuff… It irks me even more that so many women believe they need an elaborate 10-step skincare routine just to take care of their skin. Even worse, the confusion has gotten so out of hand that some women don’t know what to use—so they end up using nothing at all. Can you believe that? Here’s my take: skincare doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. In fact, it shouldn’t be. Our skin doesn’t need to be overloaded. It needs protection. It needs moisture. It needs food. In a word: it needs support. And the best support? Comes from a few good-quality products with clean, thoughtful ingredients. Here’s what I believe every woman needs: That’s it. No parabens. No sulfates. No artificial fragrances. Or colorings. And no pressure to buy into the idea that more is better. Because more is just… more. More money, more time… not necessarily more youth and less wrinkles. Skincare should be about health, not hype. About knowing what you’re putting on your skin—not just following trends blindly. Do your own research. Learn about ingredients. Your skin deserves that kind of love and attention—not an overflowing shelf of expensive confusion. Natural, intentional, and effective. That’s the kind of skincare we should be aiming for. O, and I almost forgot about the most important ingredients that can’t even be found in a bottle. Happiness and love. Nothing glows like a woman who is happy and loved! And the best happiness and love comes from within. Love what you see in the mirror and laugh often – at yourself, at your past, at your future, at the lion at the door, at your bank account, at your child’s horrible joke or at your husband’s long standing prank… just laugh! It’s the best cure for ageing.

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More Than Skin Deep: A Reflection on Acne

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Marista

Having acne is seen as something horrible. It makes you ugly and can literally scar you for life. We’ve written before about the psychological effects acne can have on your self-esteem, your relationships, and your sense of self-worth. But today, I want to talk about something different—something deeper. I want to talk about judgment. I want to talk about how quick we are to look at others and draw conclusions. How often we judge people purely based on what we see—or worse, what we think we see. I never had acne. I had a couple of pimples during puberty—nothing major, nothing that left scars. My skin cleared up quickly, and I never really thought much about it. So, I didn’t know what it felt like to dread looking in the mirror or to want to hide your face from the world. But my sister did. She had terrible acne. Angry, painful breakouts that seemed to stay no matter what she did. We never really spoke about it—back then, we didn’t have the vocabulary for that kind of vulnerability. But looking back, I wonder if that’s why she spent so much time alone, holed up in her room. Maybe it wasn’t just teenage moodiness. Maybe it was shame. Maybe it was feeling like no one could understand what she was going through. Years later, my own daughter walked that same road. She struggled with acne for years. Not just a few pimples now and then—real, persistent, painful acne that left marks behind, both physically and emotionally. She washed her face. She drank the water. She avoided certain foods. She used the creams. She even tried medication. Still, the acne remained. And now, in her early twenties, it still flares up. She did everything right. And that’s something I’ve seen up close—twice now—so I can say it with absolute certainty: it wasn’t anything they did. They bathed. They cleansed. They ate well. Apart from the odd chocolate or treat, they followed every rule that society and skincare routines told them would lead to “perfect skin.” Meanwhile, my other kids—my boys—didn’t have acne. Sure, they had pimples, like most teenagers. But it passed fairly quickly, give or take a year or two. There were no long-term struggles, no lasting scars, no months of trying new treatments in the hope of relief. It came, it went, and they moved on. So why did my daughter get it so bad, and the boys didn’t? We don’t know. And we probably never will. It could be hormones. It could be genetics. It could be stress, environment, or something we just never identified. It could be everything or nothing. That’s the thing about acne—it’s unpredictable, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all condition. And yet, despite all this complexity, how quickly do we look at someone and judge? “Ooh, look at all those pimples. Maybe they should try bathing once in a while.” “Yoh, she’s eating chocolate with all that acne? She shouldn’t be doing that.”(Which, yes—chocolate can be a trigger for some. But you don’t know if that’s her first piece in months, do you?) “Ag shame, that guy didn’t take care of his skin properly. Just look at those scars. Shouldn’t have popped them, hey?” This is the kind of commentary people with acne hear every day. Some of it’s said out loud. Most of it is silently assumed. And it’s heartbreaking. Because we reduce people to their appearance, and in doing so, we strip away everything else that makes them human. And it doesn’t stop with acne. We do the same with people whose lives don’t look like ours. We pass beggars on the side of the road and think, They must have made some bad choices. We walk past the homeless and wonder, Why can’t they just get a job? But we don’t know their stories. Some may have made choices. Others may have had choices taken from them. And some people really do choose that life—but not all. Not most. And I’ve seen how quickly life can change. How fast the tables can turn. How easily one unforeseen circumstance—an illness, a job loss, a betrayal, a string of bad luck—can land you in a place you never imagined you’d be. Never say never. Because one day, you could find yourself in an ugly place. Maybe not physically, but emotionally. Spiritually. Financially. And in that moment, you wouldn’t want someone to look at your situation and define you by it. You wouldn’t want to be reduced to a snapshot of your worst moment. You would want someone to look beyond the surface, to see the whole of you. To show compassion. To reach out a hand, not point a finger. It’s so easy to judge. But would you want the same judgments you dish out, to be turned back on you? Would you want people to see your worst days and think they represent your entire life? Your worst moment and assume it’s who you are? What if instead of jumping to conclusions, we paused. What if we chose kindness instead? So, today, let’s make a conscious decision:Let’s not look at others through judgmental eyes. Let’s not reduce people to their skin, their circumstances, or their missteps. Let’s look deeper. Let’s see the beauty that actually matters—the beauty of the heart. Let’s remember that everyone is fighting battles we can’t see. Some of those battles are on their faces. Some are in their minds. Some are in their homes. And all of them deserve grace. Let’s build a world where we look past scars, past skin, past surface, and see each other fully. Because acne is not the enemy. Circumstance is not the enemy. Judgment is.

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Take Care of Your Skin, Take Care of Yourself

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Marista

Yeah, sure, but I don’t have the time to take care of myself… I get it. You’re busy. I mean, I really get it. As a mom of five kids, I understand what it means to have no time. No time to sit down, no time to breathe, and certainly no time to do something as “frivolous” as skincare. Who has the luxury to stand in front of a mirror, slathering on products, when there are mouths to feed, laundry to fold, and work to do? Who has the nerve to take time for themselves when everyone else is pulling at them, needing something, asking for something, depending on them? You do. That’s who. And you need to stop believing the lie that taking care of yourself is selfish. Because do you know what is actually selfish? Not taking care of yourself. Yes, you read that right. Not taking care of yourself is not noble. It’s not admirable. It’s not self-sacrificing in the way you think it is. It is, in fact, pride in reverse. It’s saying, “Look at me! Look at how much I give! Look at how much I sacrifice!” But at what cost? Your health? Your energy? Your well-being? What good are you to everyone else when you are running on fumes? How can you be strong for your family when you refuse to give yourself the care you so freely give to others? You Deserve Care, Too. When did it become okay to believe that everyone else’s needs come before our own? That self-care is something to be earned only after the to-do list is done? (Spoiler alert: That to-do list will never be done.) Somewhere along the way, we started believing that we had to prove our worth by exhausting ourselves for everyone else. But let me tell you something—exhaustion is not a badge of honor. It is a warning sign. And if you don’t listen to that warning sign now, your body will make you listen later. You can either take small moments to care for yourself today, or you can deal with the consequences of burnout, stress, and deteriorating health tomorrow. Either way, you will have to pay the price. Who Will Take Care of You? Let’s be real for a moment—who will take care of you if you fall apart? If you run yourself into the ground and your body finally says, “Enough,” who will pick up the pieces? The people who depend on you? The very ones you’re exhausting yourself for? Let me ask you something else—what example are you setting for your children, for your loved ones? Are you showing them that they, too, should neglect themselves in the name of serving others? Are you teaching your daughters that their needs always come last? That their worth is measured by how much they deplete themselves for the sake of others? It’s Time to Change the Narrative. You need to take care of yourself—not just for you, but for them. Because when you take care of yourself, you give others permission to do the same. When you prioritize your well-being, you teach your children and those around you that self-care is not selfish. It is necessary. And no, I’m not telling you to book a week-long spa getaway (though, let’s be honest, that sounds amazing). I’m telling you to do something as simple as washing your face and moisturizing it. That’s it. Because skincare is not just about looking good—it’s about respecting yourself. It’s about taking a few moments in the chaos of life to acknowledge that you matter, too. Make the Damn Time. I don’t care how busy you are—you have five minutes. You have time to scroll through your phone, you have time to answer one more email, you have time to pick up after everyone else. You can take five minutes to take care of your skin. To take care of yourself. Invest in yourself. Invest in decent skincare. Not just any product you grabbed off a shelf because it was cheap and convenient, but something that actually nourishes and protects your skin. Something that reminds you, every time you use it, that you are worth the effort. You Are Worth It. And if no one has told you that today, let me be the one to say it: You are allowed to take care of yourself. You are worth the time, the effort, and the investment. So take a couple of bucks, take a couple of minutes, and wash your face. And moisturize it properly, damnit! Because when you take care of yourself, you are not just doing it for you. You are doing it for everyone who loves you, for everyone who looks up to you, for everyone who needs you at your best. And, most importantly, you are doing it because you deserve it. It’s time you – we – start believing it. And acting accordingly.

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Opinion: Does it really matter what Shower Gel you use?

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Marista

Why I Believe Natural Shower Gels Are Better for Your Skin When it comes to shower gels, I firmly believe that the more natural the product, the better it is for your skin. The reason is simple: fewer synthetic chemicals mean less chance of contamination and irritation. While many commercially produced shower gels boast benefits like rich lather and long-lasting fragrances, these features often come at a cost—your skin’s health. In this opinion piece, I’ll explain why I believe natural shower gels are better, touch on some common ingredients found in conventional products, and why skepticism toward certain “safe” chemicals is valid. Understanding Shower Gel Ingredients Most conventional shower gels contain a variety of synthetic chemicals to achieve their cleansing, foaming, and fragrance properties. Among the most common is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)(SLES), a surfactant (“or surface-active agent, is a substance that reduces the surface tension of a liquid, allowing it to spread and wet more easily” – Google) that is mostly responsible for that luxurious foam we’ve come to associate with cleanliness. While SLS does an excellent job of removing dirt and oil, it is also a harsh irritant that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Manufacturers and some studies argue that the levels of SLS in shower gels are too low to cause harm. While this may be true for most people, it’s not a universal rule. Individuals with sensitive or dry skin often experience irritation, redness, and dryness from products containing SLS. Not to mention the detrimental effects on those suffering from eczema! I personally believe this warrants a closer examination of how “safe” these levels truly are. Even if the effects are minor, or the levels are “safe”, prolonged exposure over time could have cumulative consequences for the skin barrier. Another ingredient worth discussing is synthetic fragrances. These are often used to create appealing scents but are notorious for containing phthalates (no, I don’t know how to pronounce it), a class of chemicals linked to hormone disruption. Additionally, synthetic fragrances can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (again… eczema!). Natural essential oils, on the other hand, provide a safer alternative, offering both pleasant aromas and added skin benefits. This is another reason why natural shower gels are better. Other common synthetic additives include parabens (preservatives), triclosan (an antibacterial agent), and artificial dyes—all of which have been flagged for their potential long-term health risks. While the cosmetic industry insists these ingredients are safe at regulated levels, I believe that minimizing their presence in skincare is a more prudent approach, especially when natural alternatives exist. Natural Shower Gels: A Better Option Natural shower gels, on the other hand, tend to avoid these controversial ingredients, opting instead for plant-based cleansers, essential oils, and natural preservatives. These ingredients not only cleanse the skin gently but also nourish it. For example, natural oils like coconut, olive, or almond oil are often used as a base for their moisturizing properties. These oils work in harmony with your skin’s natural lipid barrier, leaving it hydrated and soft. Furthermore, plant-based surfactants like coco-glucoside or decyl glucoside are milder alternatives to SLS. They cleanse effectively without stripping away natural oils or causing irritation. Essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus not only provide a delightful scent but also offer therapeutic benefits, from calming inflammation to combating bacteria. Natural shower gels also avoid synthetic dyes, relying instead on the natural colors of their ingredients. Again, this makes natural shower gels better than most commercial shower gels. While these may not be as vibrant as their artificial counterparts, they come without the risk of triggering allergies or skin sensitivities. The Bigger Picture: Holistic Skin Health One of the reasons I’m so passionate about natural shower gels is their contribution to holistic skin health. Your skin is the largest organ of your body and serves as a protective barrier against external pollutants. Bombarding it with harsh, synthetic chemicals weakens this barrier, leaving your skin vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and even premature aging. Natural ingredients, by contrast, work with your skin rather than against it. They support the skin’s natural functions, like maintaining moisture and pH balance. Over time, this approach helps to strengthen your skin barrier, making it more resilient to environmental stressors. Why the Debate on SLS Matters Returning to the debate around SLS, I think it’s important to consider not just what’s “proven safe” but also what’s “proven better.” Just because studies claim that SLS in small doses is unlikely to cause harm doesn’t mean it’s the best option. Science evolves, and so do our understanding of long-term exposure and cumulative effects. Why take the risk when gentler alternatives are readily available? Additionally, many conventional products are formulated with a focus on cost-effectiveness rather than skin health. SLS and other synthetic ingredients are cheap and readily available, making them attractive to manufacturers. Natural alternatives may cost a little more, but they prioritize your well-being over production savings. Conclusion: Choose Natural, Choose Better At the end of the day, I believe that what we put on our skin is just as important as what we put into our bodies. Natural shower gels, with their gentle, nourishing ingredients, are the safer and healthier choice for long-term skin health. While the cosmetic industry defends synthetic chemicals like SLS and synthetic fragrances as safe, I remain skeptical of their necessity when better options exist. By choosing natural shower gels, you reduce your exposure to potentially harmful substances, support your skin’s natural functions, and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly world. It’s a choice that benefits not just your skin but your overall health and the environment. So, next time you’re shopping for shower gel, take a moment to read the label—and choose natural. Your skin will thank you.

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Opinion: How often to change a diaper?

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Marista

Disclaimer: This is an opinion piece – my opinion. This is not advice, this is not medically proven, this is not even a recommendation. It is just that – my opinion. How often to change a diaper? When they have pooped, as quickly as possible. Poop will irritate the skin much more quickly than pee, it carries the risk of fecal infection and obviously, it smells! But for a pee nappy, my answer is very controversial. Almost all the articles out there says that you need to change a nappy often, even just for pee. Obviously, in the case of vintage cloth nappies, this is the case, purely because the cloth can only absorb so much and pretty soon the clothes are wet, and the couch or carpet the baby sat on, etc. But, in the case of disposable nappies, and even modern cloth nappies, it is not the case. I have not been able to afford to change my babies’ nappies that often. So I didn’t. I raised 5 kids with an average of 3 nappies a day (first 2 months not included). I would let them walk with that nappy until it started to drag on the floor… well, I may be exaggerating a little. But I changed the nappies when they were hanging low or started to disintegrate, and jelly fluff formed a trail behind them. I was financially challenged, so you probably don’t need to go that far. But, if you have to, you could. I don’t see why you need to change a diaper every 90 minutes or 2 hours. At the nursery school they asked for 8 nappies a day. I couldn’t afford that. However, there are disclaimers. I used decent amounts of barrier creams on their bums, whether it be pure Vaseline, Fissan Paste, some pharmacy blend of zinc and castor oil or then my own Baby Bum Cream, I always made sure their bums were well protected. And, when they did develop a rash, I treated it quickly and changed the nappies often until the rash healed. I also increased water intake to dilute the intensity of the pee. I was privileged, my kids didn’t develop a lot of rashes. Except baby #4, but he suffered from allergies and eczema, which made his case unique. So, if your baby has a healthy skin, there is no need to change pee diapers that often. At night, let your baby sleep, unless it is a poo diaper, or unless the diaper leaks. Use your own discretion, and no matter what anyone else says: the health of your baby comes first.

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