Heather R
Skin is the body’s largest organ. It protects us by acting as a barrier. We know about the lotions and oils we can apply to keep it in mint condition. We apply sunscreen on it to prevent it from being damaged by the sun. We also apply vaseline to keep it supple, and glycerin to moisturise it — the list could go on. However, did you know that the skin is an external organ which your internal organs borrow to inform of some changes taking place internally, which may be normal or ones which you may need to take note of? For instance, your skin may be breaking out due to a stomach that is frequently upset or irregular bowel movements. This is one of the symptoms that will manifest as a heads up.
The look of your skin generally reveals your health. Doctors and beauty therapists can tell that you are dehydrated just by merely looking at your skin. Lack-lustre skin is also a tell-tale sign of ill-health, and so are protrusions and rashes.
What I am getting at is that good skin is not solely a result of a great and expensive regime but also a function of good health. Here are some things you can do to have good skin from the inside out:
Adequate Sleep Six to eight hours of sleep will keep your skin looking rejuvenated. While we sleep our skin repairs and refreshes itself. You will also avoid those dreaded bags under your eyes. Yes, there may be times you will have to burn the midnight oil, but just do not make it a lifestyle. Rest is beneficial to you.
Water Your body uses water to help flush out toxins, among a myriad of other things. Without sufficient quantities of water, the toxins will build up and it will show on your face. Water is also great for keeping your skin hydrated, slowing down the development of wrinkles, and preventing blemishes and dark rings under the eyes.
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Fruit and Veg The wider the variety of colours on your plate, the better for you. The fibre in the fruit and vegetables are good for keeping your bowels functioning normally, meaning there is no build up of toxins. Eat vegetables and fruit of a variety of colours as they contain antioxidants that are good for your skin.
Dr Marilyn Glenville put this oxidation process simply in a South African Glamour magazine, “Imagine an apple cut in half and left to brown by the air — that’s what free radicals do to your body. They kind of make it rust”. Free radicals breakdown collagen and elastin resulting in premature ageing. A healthy diet will nourish and protect the skin.
Things to avoid: Smoking: That tar and nicotine have zero benefits for your skin. Sugar: It should be kept to a minimum. When consumed in excess, for example — ordinary chocolate, cake, soft drinks, etc, — it may lead to acne. Choose candy that contains natural sugars or sweeteners instead.
