Get Healthy Radiant Skin

One compliment I receive (graciously) on a regular basis is how healthy and youthful my skin looks. This is not a make-up artistry technique but rather, a steadfast commitment to a nutritionally-dense diet, healthy lifestyle, hot yoga, and these insider tips.

#1 DON'T WASH YOUR FACE

Most patients' jaws drop when I tell them this, however, it is a little known secret in the naturopathic community that not washing your face helps to preserve youthfulness.

Your skin produces natural oils which keep it super hydrated and act as barriers to toxins, free radicals, and bacteria. If you are constantly stripping your face with cleansers you are disrupting this natural protection process. Even splashing water on your face will dry it out.

Now, of course, if you're wearing make-up you will need to wash it off, but on your cosmetic-free days leave your beautiful face alone and let nature do its thing.

#2 HEAL YOUR GUT

Think of your skin as your gut turned inside out. If you are eating inflammatory foods, taking certain pharmaceutical medications, or have an unhealthy balance of intestinal bacteria (SIBO, candida, parasites) your gut may actually become permeable. Foreign substances can then leak through the gut into your body causing health problems, including acne, eczema, and rosacea.

#3 AVOID SUGAR AND DAIRY

Both refined sugar intake and dairy are linked with acne, particularly cystic acne. Sugar intake spikes your insulin production, and this can drive hormone-mediated acne.

Dairy is inflammatory in nature and is the first food you should eliminate if you have any skin conditions, especially acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It takes about 3 months for milk proteins to fully leave your system, so it may take some time to see the full benefit.