Body and soul

No summer is complete without a barbecue! A fun get-together, a wide variety of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere—for many, firing up the grill is simply part of the warm season. What we put on the grill should be anything but a trivial matter:  When you consciously choose seasonal vegetables and high-quality meat from Austria, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re also supporting local agriculture and regional economic growth.

August is the perfect time to enjoy nature to the fullest. Whether you’re hiking, at the lake, in the garden, or on vacation—the sun is a part of many wonderful summer moments. At the same time, your skin is exposed to particular stresses during this season. UV rays, heat, wind, and saltwater or chlorinated water can strain the skin’s natural barrier and strip it of moisture.

With the right skincare, you can help your skin stay healthy, supple, and radiant all summer long. Three factors play a key role here: protection, hydration, and regeneration.

There is a vast variety of skin care and cosmetic products available. No matter what the problem, the market offers a solution to pamper yourself and your skin. For dry skin, you apply moisturizer diligently; for dandruff, there’s the right shampoo; and for wrinkles, there are numerous formulations designed to make your skin glow. But even products intended for good can often—even expensive ones—contain questionable ingredients. We’re talking about PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals.” They’re frequently used in cosmetics and other products because of their durability, but they’re facing increasing criticism due to their impact on people and the environment. This article explains what they are, how they work, why they can be harmful, and why natural cosmetics offer a genuine alternative.