It all starts with the skin. The largest organ in the body, our skin is the true indicator of how are on the inside. It shows the first signs of ageing, puffiness, dehydration, sun spots, flakiness, broken capillaries, open pores, blemishes - the list is endless. The skin on the face can be very cruel and women spend their life focusing on that are of their body, so treating it well is key. The good news is that you can help your skin in a number of small ways - hydration, cleanliness, sleep, better nutrition, relaxation and good grooming all make the world of difference.
The Bottom Line:
You can expect to look good if you don't take care of yourself - its a commitment and dedication you need to make to yourself. If you fill your body with processed foods, alcohol, caffeine and other toxins, then unfortunately your face will be the first one to mirror that. Everything in moderation. You don't have to be an angel, and its important to enjoy yourself, but if you know you haven't been doing yourself any favours, take step to redress the balance.
Top 10 ways to healthy skin:
- Eat a good diet full of organic food and plenty of roughage to maintain healthy digestive system: avoid processed or packaged food.
- Drink atleast 1.5 ltr of still water throughout thr day
- Get enough sleep - a good night's rest can take years off you. Magnesium oil is a great relaxant, and a warm bath with Epsom salts before bed will help you sleep.
- Cleanse and moisturize everyday. A good skincare regime, using products appropriate for your skin, will help keep it in optimum condition.
- Exfoliate regularly to slough off the dead cells on the surface and encourage the rejuvenation of the skin underneath. Some very gentle exfoliators can be used daily, whereas others should be only be used once or twice a week.
- Stress has a negative impact on the skin, so make sure you find balance in your life by having time out for yourself, in whatever way works for you. Meditation, soaking in the bath and no phone calls or emailing after 6 pm are all things that help to unwind.
- Exercise is a good way for the skin, as it aids circulation, increasing oxygen levels in the blood and speeding up the elimination of toxins. Excersing in the fresh air is even better, giving you that unmistakable healthy glow.
- Maintenance - if you can, see a facialist once every couple of months, or whenever you feel you need it, for a really good cleanse. This is especially beneficial if you have oily skin.
- Colonics and liver detoxes are really good for skin, as they accelerate the elimination of toxins from your system.
- Wear SPF on your face all year around - ideally Factor 30 in the winter and Factor 50 in summer. This will help prevent signs of agening.
Hint: If you have any persistent skincare concerns, go to see a specialist and let them diagnose your skin. A dermatologist can give you a tailor-made 'prescription' that could just change your life.