Our skin is the largest organ in the body (yes, it’s true; the skin is an organ), and it’s also a pretty significant indicator of what is happening in your body. Internal illnesses or imbalances happening within the body can manifest on the skin – think of pimples, eczema or even discoloration. Outside forces can also have an effect your skin; this can include pollution or contact with potential allergens.
In our society, we are afraid of aging. We have been brainwashed to believe that retaining that youthful look to our skin is of most importance; it’s an ideal that from a young age we are taught we need to achieve. We turn to expensive, chemically-soaked skin and beauty products in hopes that we will keep our youthfulness forever along with the elasticity of our skin.
What I think many of us forget is the actual function of the skin, which protects us against the elements and helps to regulate body heat (and so much more). Exposing your skin to too many foreign products – such as beauty creams, make-up, etc. – can actually do more harm than good. In some cases, these products and treatments can disturb your skin's biological functions, create hormone imbalances and endocrine disruption, and lead to even more skin issues. Your skin can actually become addicted to certain products, leading to a vicious cycle.
There are many ways to keep your skin nice and healthy, and of course we always want to start with the basics like more water, exercise, and a healthy whole-food diet. But sometimes exterior intervention is also warranted. Here are some edible foods that you can also put on your skin to achieve some extraordinary results that will make you happy your epidermis is showing.
Apple cider vinegar
Great astringent, and fights wrinkles. Make sure to dilute it with water before putting on your face. It is also great for digestion and your liver, which helps your skin from the inside out. Have a shot with water first thing in the morning, you won't regret it.
Honey
Not just for sweetening your tea, it is a great pore cleanser and has some antibacterial properties, not to mention it also helps to fade scars. You can use honey by spreading a thin layer on your face and leave on for approximately 15 minutes, then rinse off and feel the softness.
Coconut oil
Need to moisturize, remove your makeup, but also need to cook a bomb meal? Coconut oil has your back; it’s multi-use spectrum will make you want to have some in your kitchen, in your bathroom and even in your bedroom!
Oats
Oats, along with honey and apple cider vinegar, can make a great exfoliating face scrub for your skin, and these are all items that you probably have in your kitchen already. Talk about thrifty!
Soothing oatmeal face mask
Ingredients:
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp coconut oil
½ cup raw oatmeal
3 drops lavender oil (optional)
Directions:
1. Mix ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Apply on skin for 20 minutes.
3. Rinse with lukewarm water and moisturize, perhaps with coconut oil.
