This time of year, everyone I know is getting sick, getting over being sick, or just plain sick of being sick. With holiday travel, the kids back in school, and the changes in temperature, winter can certainly seem like the season of discontent. There are, however, a few steps we can all take to start feeling better.

First and foremost, wash your hands! Studies have shown that washing hands with soap and water is the most effective method of curtailing the spread of germs and infection.
Antibacterial sanitizers kill germs but they often contain chemicals registered by the Environmental Protection Agency as pesticides! There is also concern that overuse of these chemicals can breed bacterial resistance. And as you may have noticed, they can also dry and irritate the skin.

That’s why I set out to create LATHER’s Wasabi Hand Wash Collection. Wasabi has been used for centuries as a natural antibacterial agent, and has a high concentration of potassium, calcium, and vitamin C as well as phytochemicals that strengthen the body’s natural antioxidants. Our Wasabi Hand Washes also contain natural oils and emollients, so the formulation is non-drying and gentle on the skin.

If a cold has already hit, you have many choices in how to treat it. I like to draw on the natural benefits of essential oils to improve symptoms like a stuffy nose or heavy head. Essential oils are derived from aromatic essences of plants, trees, fruits, flowers, and herbs, and have many medicinal properties. Their small molecular size allows for easy absorption, and can be used for inhalation and direct application to the body.

The essential oil of eucalyptus, in particular, is known to improve respiratory infections and open up the sinuses. Try a few drops of LATHER’s Eucalyptus Therapeutic Bath Tonic for an energizing soak, or on a warm washcloth to ease cold symptoms. Or stop by our in-store Blending Bar which offers more than 50 essential oils for you to customize your own personal elixir.

Pasadena-based LATHER strives to inspire a healthier, more radiant life. By taking a holistic approach to skin care, focusing on sourcing natural ingredients and essential oils, and drawing upon the benefits of aromatherapy, LATHER provides superior products that care for the skin as well as the mind.

LATHER, 17 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, www.lather.com.

Live a Radiant Life with LATHER.