Since spring has (finally) sprung and riding the coattails of Dr. Colin’s article on reducing toxic exposure, let’s talk all things skin!
It is well known that the skin is the body’s largest organ but it often gets overlooked when we think of detoxing.
I like to say that the skin is the physical representation of what is happening inside the body. It reveals how hydrated you are, the status of your gut health, levels of stress in your life and even how much sleep you got!
Here are my top 5 tips for keeping your skin healthy, and glowing all year round:
1) Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! The body is composed of 60-80% water and it is the best way to flush toxins, regulate temperature and give an overall healthy glow. It is a good rule of thumb to drink filtered water and if plain water isn’t exciting enough, you can add citrus, cucumber or melon to flavour it.
2) Exercise + Sleep: Moving and grooving pumps the lymphatic system helping to move waste and detox the body. Getting a good sweat on at least 3 times a week naturally encourages toxins to leave the body and leave you feeling energized and your skin happy. Resting and restoring are imperative for healthy skin. Getting your zzz’s consistently keeps the body’s detox pathways open and operating normally.
3) Antioxidant power: Vitamin E, C and omega 3 fatty acids are the skins best cheerleaders. Vitamin E + C are key antioxidants in skin health which help to regenerate cells, fight free radical damage and inflammation. Omega 3 FA’s aid in mending damaged cells from the inside out as well as providing necessary moisture to the skins appearance.
4) Dry skin brushing: A simple yet very effective way to detox the skin. It provides lymphatic stimulation, exfoliation, decreases the appearance of cellulite and gives a natural energy boost! Get your hands on a natural dry body brush (they vary in firmness) and brush from the soles of the feet upwards to the heart. Do one side of the body and then the other. This is best done before a shower or bath.
5) The Right Products: Looking for the right skin care products in your own backyard? Cocoon Apothecary Skincare in on St. Leger Street. A wonderful mecca for all things skin related! This local, eco-friendly and plant-based skincare company has some wonderful products, but most noteworthy is their Reflector SPF 30 Facial Sun Protection. Natural protection is provided from titanium dioxide + zinc block ultraviolet rays from penetrating the skin and causing damage. It can be worn alone or mixed into you daily skin cream for that necessary protection we all need in today’s world.
There are loads of ways to address the skin and the tips above will be a wonderful start. If you need more information then please consult a Naturopath to get your skin set up for success!
– Dr. Mairead Fitzpatrick ND
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