Each day your skin filters out what we don't want, keeping lots of what we do, scavenges UV light, battles free radicals, stretches, contracts, sheds and revitalizes itself
2009-05-25
To help skin perform its essential functions, there are a few things you can be doing right now to help pave the way to healthy, vibrant skin.
1. Get your Zzz's
Studies show that consistent, restful sleep leads to happier humans, and healthier skin. During the night, the body enters a repair and regeneration phase, and disruptions to this phase can lead to dark circles or changes in skin texture and apperance. Experts recommend getting between 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep the body (and the skin) functioning at an optimal level. For an extra restful sleep, dilute a few drops of pure lavendar essential oil into a bowl of hot water. Place the bowl in a safe location close to the bed and allow the soothing lavendar scent to lull you to sleep.
2. Adopt some green
Did you know that houseplants improve the air and remove toxins from your living environment including the pollutants benzene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde? These pollutants, which are often used in building components such as paint, carpet and insulation, hide out in homes and offices, making plants a healthy-skin companion. Studies conducted by NASA discovered that English ivy, philodendrons and peace lilies were particularly useful, although all plants offer a therapeutic benefit to the home - and skin.
3. Clean the slate
Can't remember the last time you washed your makeup (or hair) brushes? Then it's been too long. Dirt, oil, dead skin and bacteria are just a few of the things that can easily become trapped in makeup brushes - and transferred to your skin - if brushes aren't routinely washed. A simple cleansing with baby or clarifying shampoo, once a month, will not only extend the life of the brush, it will also help maintain skin health and clarity.
4. Count to 3 (and 6)
Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are crucial to not only a healthy body, but healthy skin as well. Beef up your diet with Omega-3 rich foods such as deepwater fish, canola and flaxseed oil; and Omega-6 rich foods like raw nuts, seeds, evening primrose oil, grapeseed oil and borage seed oil. Your complexion will thank you!
