ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Most of us are probably aware that your skin is the biggest organ in your body, covering the entire external surface. The skin has three layers – the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, which all have different anatomical structures and functions for the body. This is why it is so important to use skin care products that are made with natural ingredients and that won’t cause harm to your skin and other organs.

We sell many different, natural skincare and beauty products that enhance your beauty and protect your skin. With summer now here, let’s dive into a few products that we suggest giving a try to protect your skin from the sun, bug bites, and the dreaded poison ivy itch.

We’re really excited about our new bulk sunscreen by All Good Bodycare. Whether you need a little or a lot, bring your own containers and fill up with sunscreen in our Bulk Department. Sunscreen does have an expiration date so be sure to check the dates of any old tubes lying around. Typically, sunscreen expires after one year of being opened. Another reason to shop in bulk – you can take as little or as much as you need to avoid any waste. All Good products are made in the USA using botanical ingredients that are ethically sourced and some which are proudly grown on their farm. All Good is a women-owned, Certified B corporation and climate neutral certified company.

Summer days are glorious but the pesky bugs are not. Ticks are abundant during the warmer months of WNC, so don’t forget to wear protective clothing, like socks over long pants. Make it a fun-fashion statement! Do a full-body check for ticks after hikes or time spent outdoors. Neem oil can be used to repel and kill ticks on both humans and pets. It works by disrupting the tick’s feeding, reproduction and breathing. Find Neem oil on our shelves in the Health and Beauty Department.

We also carry Badger Anti-Bug sprays and balms to ward off mosquitoes. Badger prides itself on using organic and fair-trade ingredients that are both nourishing for people and the planet. They are a mission-driven, family-owned company located in the woods of New Hampshire.

While battling biting insects might be half the battle of summer woes, the other is avoiding any run-ins with poison ivy or poison oak. If you do encounter any unfortunate brushes with poison ivy or poison oak, know that Jewelweed is your friend. Jewelweed often grows near both poisonous plants. Jewelweed is known to alleviate the itch from poison ivy and poison oak. We carry bars of jewelweed soap, and a Poison Ivy spray from Red Moon Farms, a local herb farm. This natural remedy has jewelweed and plantain, which can help soothe the itch and rash. Both plants grow in this area and you can most likely find them in your backyard or on a hike.

We also carry All Terrain Poison ivy/oak soap bars and Tecnu. Tecnu is a popular choice and is recommended to use immediately following a run in with poison ivy or oak. Makeup might not be something you think of when you consider summer skin care, but Fat and the Moon cosmetics are lightweight, oil-free products that can be used both for blush and lipstick, so we thought it would be worth a mention. Fat and the Moon cosmetics are plant-based, formulated by an Herbalist. The company is located in Nevada City, California, and they still handcraft all their products using organic local ingredients and low waste packaging.

Next time you’re shopping at the Market, don’t forget to peruse our Health and Beauty Department for skin care products to protect you all summer long and throughout the seasons!