Summer is here and among the most common types of skin concerns arise in areas where there is warmer weather.

Higher temperatures almost always mean that the skin will be exposed to UV rays, humidity and more, causing the skin to sweat, and produce a larger amount of oil.

An oversupply of oil leads to the pores becoming blocked and dreadful zits and blemishes cropping up as a result.

The African climate is a harsh one and in order to prevent or manage any skin concern, one can take steps to care for one’s skin.

For oily skin:

Oily skin almost always produced blemishes. Use a gel cleanser, oil-free products and mattifying, pore-minimising moisturiser.

Carry blot cloths with you at all times to pat away any shine/oil.

Remove makeup correctly with a makeup remover and cotton pads, and follow a strict cleansing routine, remembering to tone. Natural ingredients that can assist in your routine include aloe vera, tea tree and lemon extract.

For dry/dehydrated skin

For skin that is in need of hydration, stick to rich, creamy and nourishing ingredients such as rose water, rooibos, Shea butter, coconut oil and the likes.

When selecting a treatment at the salon, decide on which area of the body you would like to focus on.

For the face – a facial is the obvious option and certain spa-related brands have created products specifically designed for skin problems.

Since 1964, Thalgo has recognised the benefits and potential of the sea to develop beauty products, treatments and nutritional supplements. Marine algae is at the heart of Thalgo’s success.

For oily or combination skin, one could try a Thalgo Algae facial, an intense treatment that is deep cleansing and purifying. It promotes cleaner skin, with a tighter skin surface and less visible pores.

For dry skin, one could try the Absolute Hydration Range with a Thalgo Source Marine Hydrating Facial. This facial features the marine ingredient Seve Marine which combats signs of dehydration, leaving the skin softer with improved skin texture.

Thalgo products are available at specific spas, and are also incorporated into specific treatments at these spas. Find your nearest by visiting www.thalgo.co.za or alternatively call 033 234 4071 or email spa@grannymouse.co.za to book at the Granny Mouse Spa at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa who not only offer Thalgo products, but Thalgo treatments sure to suit your every need.

A healthy garden is one where bugs of all sorts visit – especially bees.

Did you know that there are thousands of species of bees around, and all are essential to sustainable living, so it is our duty to create a habitat that is conducive for bees.

“When it comes to planting, we are not normally thinking about the effects of what we plant. We rather focus on what will look good and what would require the least maintenance, but it is important to plant for the environment, and of course keep the bees in mind. Here are some facts about bees you should know,” says Granny Mouse Horticulturist, William Brown.

He continues: “Bees are responsible for pollinating a third of the fruit and vegetables humans eat. Some bees need the nectar from certain flowers and vice versa. Pollination from bees allow humans to yield a good crop and without them our agricultural world would be ruined.”

When planting into your garden, it is important to ensure that you include bee-worthy plants that boast a variety of colours such as purple, blue, white, yellow and orange, as bees have excellent colour vision and are drawn to these kinds of flowers.  It is also important to plant one kind of species in bunches which will attract a larger amount of bees to pollinate the area and ensure the flowers you choose can be planted in direct sunlight.

“Bees enjoy bright and sunny spots,” he adds.

Types of plants to consider:

Perennials: Dahlias, Roses, Yellow hyssop, Anemone, Geranium

Annuals: Sunflower, Calendula, Zinnia, Marigold

Herbs: Fennel, Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary

Fruit and vegetables: Peppers, Cucumbers, Raspberries, Strawberries, Wild Garlic, Pumpkin.

Apart from successful planting to attract bees, one must also consider that even though you have bee-attracting plants, pesticides can detract or even harm bees that do arrive in your garden.

According to gardencollage.com, vinegar is a great alternative for weeds. “Given that bees are our main pollinator, it doesn’t make sense to use pesticides that have been proven to kill them, especially when there are alternatives that are safe, easy to use, and cost effective.”

Natural weed killers are products such as vinegar, Epsom Salt, pepper, garlic and onion and even Eucalyptus Oil.

Happy planting!