How to Let Your Skin Shine

After a fantastic warm and sunny weekend, we all would have been inspired to get some sun on our skin. Originally from Far North Queensland, the winter here seems very very long, and I never knew my skin could actually turn this pale shade. Who knew?? But now winter is over we all can let our skin breathe and absorb some vitamin D.

For many of us, the first time we peel back the winter clothes can lead to the discovery of a skin condition. Not as scary as it sounds, skin conditions can be many minor things. I like to see them as a sign post that your body / health / spirit use to let you know that something needs attention. We are complex beings and no condition is ever just skin deep!

A lot of very integral processes happen in our skin such as:

• protects from bugs and germs

• connects to the world through sensations

• produces melanin

• regulates temperature

• initiates vitamin D synthesis

There are ways to support your skin so that these processes are enhanced, and so that your skin simply SHINES! The first thing that ‘springs’ to mind, is the fact that your skin is a window into your digestive system. It can be a good indicator of what is going on in your gut.

Dry flakey skin? I would look at hydrating the mucous membrane layer in the digestive system so it can effectively keep the body hydrated, protect the body from ingested bacteria and allergens, and facilitate good nutrient absorption. This could be a sign of essential fatty acid deficiency in your diet (omega 3s) or vitamin D deficiency and then both will present in a similar way.

Itchy, irritated skin? Something is causing aggravation, either emotionally, topically (to touch) or foods you are ingesting. Allergies, intolerances, certain nutrient deficiencies, stress / anxiety are some things which may be relevant to investigate.

Sagging skin, or ageing skin? Supporting collagen production and supplying antioxidants is essential to healthy skin ageing. Consume good sources of protein with your meals, and enjoy vitamin C rich foods to protect collagen production. In addition, inflammation is often referred to as the key link to ageing, and can reduce skin integrity. Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet, and discover the source of inflammation in order to correct this.

Skin that is lack lustre? Look at hydration for supporting skin cell integrity, cell production and to flush impurities from the skin. Spring is a fantastic time for a detox to rid your body of toxins and enhance the function of your gut so you can digest and metabolise effectively. In addition, pale skin can be indicative of iron or mineral deficiency.

Skin Pigmentation Disorders can be a sign of sun damage, or for women are often indicative of oestrogen dominance.

These are just a few of the many conditions / sign posts that can present on our skin. Take these signs as an opportunity to enhance health by getting holistic support and management.

SKIN FOODS FOR THE WARMER MONTHS

Vitamin C foods (black currents, berries, capsicum, citrus) for collagen production, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory action and wound healing.

Vitamin E foods (almonds, apricot oil, egg yolk, hazel nuts, sunflower seeds) for integrity of fatty acid layer of the skin, antioxidant, anti inflammatory, and stabilises cells.

Zinc foods (egg yolks, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, whole grains, sea food) wound healing, skin cell growth

TOPICAL APPLICATIONS

Oils are great to gradually build up the protective layers in the skin. Almond oil, jojoba oil and rose hip oil are some of my favourites. I love to make creams with these and added essential oils and herbal tinctures which will treat specific skin conditions. So much can be achieved with topical herbs and essential oils, such as:

reducing inflammation, increasing skin layer protection, anti ageing, anti bacterial, anti fungal, soft tissue injury healing, moisturising and for circulation, anti itch and treat hyper pigmentation.

So start today with fresh, antioxidant rich foods, adequate water intake, cleansing teas, and some topical oils to reinvigorate your skin and let it shine :)

Woods Naturopathy Spring Detox Special - book a first consult and receive your follow up appointment for $20 (including free iris analysis).

Available in October only.