Week 1: Take a close look at your skin care regime
In the same way that eating junk food leads to health issues within our body, the same can be said about the junk we put on our skin every day. Now is the time to feed our skin with vitamin and mineral rich plant extracts and ditch those those petrochemicals! Follow with a good helping of filtered water. Our body not only needs water to flush out daily toxins but it is also essential for plump, hydrated skin. Cleanse your face twice daily with an all-natural cleanser formulated for your skin type. The simple ritual of cleansing helps to increase circulation to the skin for a natural glow as well as removing all those skin dulling pollutants and oils. Add a little fake tan to your face and body every day to keep up that lovely sun-kissed glow. Always exfoliate first, and keep your tan smooth by applying body lotion every day!
Week 2: Protect against bacteria
Never go to bed without taking your makeup off! If you’re a feeling too tired (or a little lazy!) use a gentle makeup-removing wipe, I keep mine right by my bed! Ensure you wash your pillowcases every week, bacteria on your bedding can be a major cause of breakouts. Don't forget to wash your makeup brushes weekly to and leave out in the direct sun to dry, the sunlight kills the bacteria as they dry. I love the Dr Bronner's liquid castle soaps for this. When spots do appear, use a natural spot treatment overnight that will not strip the surrounding skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. But most importantly, get your 8 hours! The body, including your skin renews itself while we’re sleeping. This will also help reduce dark circles, puffy eyes and tired looking skin.
Week 3: Beauty really does begin in the gut
An unbalanced or damaged gut and poor digestive system are major contributors of acne, breakouts and lack-luster skin. Incorporate probiotics and fermented foods into your diet to improve gut health. Reduce your intake of sugar and dairy as for many people these are breakout triggers (and can cause damage to the gut). Replace these with more protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. Take a daily inner beauty boost, my favourite is this one by The Beauty Chef. Eat as many leafy greens as possible! Along with healthy fats (hello coconut oil) and antioxidant rich superfoods. No matter how many creams, serums or lotions you use, your skin will be fighting an uphill battle without the right nourishment.
Week 4: Happy Life, Happy Skin!
Do everything it takes to stress less. Stress can produce hormones that damage the skin, depriving it of many nutrients it needs to look healthy and glowing. Aim to exercise at least three times a week, even if it is just walking the dog around the block. Exercise helps the blood transport nutrients to every cell in the body, including the skin. Now, get outside, apart from the positive effects of Vitamin D, getting outside helps us to maintain balance, which in turn has a wonderfully positive effect on our skin. Always opt for a non-comedogenic, natural sunscreen to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, which causes fine lines, pigmentation, sunspots and dryness. Swap your foundation to a lighter, tinted moisturiser or BB Cream to allow your skin to breath during the day whilst keeping it hydrated and dewy.
Finally, love your skin. Nothing makes your skin glow like confidence and a smile.
