Our skin covers our entire physical being and is a reflection of our internal health and one of the things that can make or break our self esteem. When we have ongoing skin issues, it is most definitely a reflection of an imbalance of the body and mind, so a holistic approach to skin care is the only way to achieve flawless, healthy skin.
Here are 10 easy steps to help you to your most amazing skin!
1 | Nutrition, nutrition, nutrition!
You have probably heard the saying ' you are what you eat' and this could not be more relevant when it comes to speaking about skin health. Skin conditions such as Rosacea, Eczema, Acne and chronic dryness can almost always be linked back to what we eat. Whether you have an intolerance to wheat or dairy or you simply are not getting enough skin loving nutrients from whole foods, your skin is calling out for help!
- Consume as many raw whole foods as possible and reduce the amount of wheat, dairy, caffeine, salt and sugar in your diet. Avocado, spinach, kale and blueberries are some wonderful foods which can help the overall health of the body and skin. The essential nutrients in these foods work wonders for the skin and are so easy to incorporate into your daily diet.
- Speak to a holistic nutritionist or naturopathic doctor; work with them to identify your skin's nutritional needs and an action plan to customize your diet to treat and repair the skin.
2| Drink more water
Hydration in the skin is essential to a smooth, luminous and more youthful complexion. Since our body is between 55-75% percent water, it is a key component to the optimal functionality of our body, skin included. Dehydration is a common skin concern that can cause uncomfortable tightness, pre-mature aging and lackluster skin. Getting 8 or more glasses of water a day is absolutely crucial to the maintenance and repair of the skin, so get sippin'!
- Try having lemon water in the morning before you eat or drink anything else. Lemon is great for detoxifying the body and contributes to clear glowing skin.
- Give your water a some excitement by adding sliced cucumber or orange slices!
- Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and take a sip whenever you remember.
3| Sweat it out!
To increase circulation and help detoxify the body and skin, exercise everyday and sweat it out. Whether it's a quick 30 minute power walk, a vinyasa yoga session or a full powered aerobics class, get your body moving! That rosy glow after a workout means the blood is circulating throughout your body and you are nourishing your skin cells and keeping them in tip top shape!
- Try to avoid wearing makeup when working out so your skin can breathe optimally.
- Always cleanse the skin thoroughly after working out to remove sweat, sebum and other bacteria and prevent breakouts.
4| Use 100% Natural Skincare
Many people are still unaware of the danger of using most mainstream skincare products. Loaded with tons of unnecessary fillers, preservatives and harmful chemicals; these products are not only a waste of money because they do not improve the skin, they are also a health risk. Use all natural skincare or homemade recipes to ensure optimal skin health. (The largest organ of the body, our skin, is proven to absorb more than 50% of what we place on it... what's in your skincare?)
- Do not rely on a brand that claims to be all natural. Know which ingredients to avoid and read the label before purchasing.
- Work with a natural skincare expert to pick out the best products for your skin concerns.
5| Get a suitable cleanser and always cleanse the skin before you sleep
It seems like a no brainer but many people still go to sleep with their makeup on, or simply do not wash their face at all. Maybe they are washing their face but with water or body soap only! I cannot stress the importance of getting a suitable cleanser and washing the skin. In the day we wear makeup, we sweat, we stress and we are exposed to several environmental factors which pollute our skin; cleansing our skin thoroughly in the evening is a very important step to removing these pollutants and keeping the skin clear and healthy. I also strongly recommend cleansing in the morning because our skin is active and detoxifying while we sleep. Moreover, cleansing in the morning freshens the complexion and prepares skin for the products we use next.
- Work with a skincare specialist to determine the best type of cleanser for your skin.
- If you are too tired, or in a rush, keep some face wipes handy for a quick cleanse... but please just wash your face!
6| Keep your skin moisturized
The number one thing you can do topically to keep your skin looking youthful and healthy? Moisturize the skin! Find a daily moisturizer that balances and hydrates your complexion and stick to it. After cleansing your skin, rehydrate and protect your skin with your moisturizer of choice. Keeping the skin moisturized helps with skin elasticity, protection and overall smoothness. Almost all moisturizers have other added benefits such as healthy aging, brightening or calming.
- Work with a skincare specialist to find the ideal moisturizer(s) for your skin concerns.
- Apply your moisturizer at least once daily after cleansing.
7| Don't complicate things
As a self proclaimed product junkie, I have literally tried it all. From serums and oils to masks and peels, if you've heard of it, I've most likely tried it. Although many of these products can be beneficial in boosting the benefits of your current skincare, they are not always necessary. Start with the basics: cleanser, toner and moisturizer; add a few additional products only if you are not seeing the results you would like. More product does not always equal better skin.
- A weekly mask or exfoliator are great ways to boost your skincare regimen without getting overwhelming.
- Choose products based on your current skin concerns and give it a good 3 months to see results.
8| Be gentle with your skin
Our skin is very delicate, especially on our face and more importantly around the eyes. Do not tug and pull on the skin as this will lead to increased skin sensitivities, redness and premature aging. Remove makeup with a gentle remover or cleanser and treat your skin very softly.
- Oil or lotion based makeup removers are the most gentle on the skin and require the least pulling.
- Avoid using abrasive sponges, cloths or cleansing devices on the skin and opt for the mild touch of your finger tips or something designed for the delicate facial area.
9| Don't stress out
Stress is an inevitable part of our lives, but many of us put extra, unnecessary expectations on ourselves which cause us to 'stress out'. Stress can wreak havoc on the skin and can cause or heighten problems such as Acne and Dermatitis. Exercising, eating a balanced diet, laughing, and meditating are all ways to bring down the stress-o-meter.
- Stop and breathe deeply in times of stress and multiple times throughout the day.
- Find something you love and try to do it every day.
- Be Grateful and remember that the stressful moment will pass.
10| Accept yourself, flaws and all!
No one is perfect- and that includes our skin. We all have imperfections or things we want to change about our skin, and all we can do is slowly work toward the end goal of healthy skin. Embrace your skin and all of its flaws; educate yourself by working with professionals to make the best choices for your skin and concerns, be patient and embrace the journey!