If you're struggling with poor skin, this will help...

Dull, flaky, uneven tone, chapping, cracking, wrinkles and fine lines are just a fraction of the side effects of poor skin health and we haven’t even got started on the other problems!

You probably already know your skin your biggest organ. Its responsible for a multitude of tasks including defender, protector and gatekeeper. Its primary purpose is to keep your organs safe by keeping water loss. Your skin also acts as a secure barrier by keeping unwanted things out such as viruses and bacteria.

We could talk about the structure and the different layers, but there really is no need, as that information is available everywhere. All you need to know is how to look after your skin so you look and feel fabulous.

If you have poor skin health, it’ll be pretty obvious as you may have one or more of the symptoms listed earlier. This does not mean you cannot do anything about it. An article from the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Health states that skin as always been a reflection of inner-health. Beauty comes from within – that is a well-known fact. You can apply all the creams and lotions you like, which is fine as long as they are not toxic, but nothing beats antioxidants, flavonoids, omega fatty acids, protein, pro-biotics and adequate hydration for healthy beautiful skin.

Where do you find these nutrients? In fruit and vegetables! You’ll hear it over and over again. Its why medical professionals, doctors, dieticians, nutritionists and holistic practitioners recommend eating plenty of it every single day; sorry there is no getting away from it. Our bodies function at a higher level on all levels, when we eat a diet rich in nutrients. Your skin will glow, look radiant and healthy if you feed your body what it needs. If you don’t like vegetables (most people like fruit but just don’t eat enough it it), its quite simple...your body won’t be getting what it needs so you will suffer the consequences if you are not already.

Dry Skin – There are two type of dry skin, one is due to a lack of natural oils and the other a combination of a lack both moisture and oils. The skin secretes natural oils from the sebaceous glands that lubricate the skins surface. Moisture is present inside the skin cells and this moisture comes via the blood stream. Dry skin can be caused by many of the following factors including: chemical sensitivities, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, food intolerances, harsh soaps and indoor heating.

Dermatitis (Eczema) – Dermatitis is the term used to describe inflammation of the skin. Symptoms range from scaly flaky skin to weeping, crusting and extremely itchy sores. Causes maybe due to low stomach acid, candida - a yeast infection, food intolerances and poor diet. Prescribed steroid creams may help initially but over time can thin the skin.

Acne – Severe acne can be very embarrassing. It is an inflammatory disorder characterised by spots (large and small), whiteheads and blackheads. Although acne tends to get worse during puberty, it is not just teens that are affected, adults can get acne too. Acne maybe caused by hormonal imbalances, monthly menstrual cycle, external pollutants, oral contraception, an imbalance in pH so the body is too acidic (from a diet high in sugar, meat and refined grains), trans and hydrogenated fats, poor diet, food intolerances, nutritional deficiencies and medication.

Once again, it comes back to nature. The best and safest way to clear up skin conditions is by taking care of what you ingest. An excellent working digestive system is key to clearing up bad skin as are bitter and blood cleansing herbs.

Detoxing is a fantastic way to reboot and reset the body. It gives your body a chance to re-balance and neutralise free radicals, giving you more energy, focus and a better nights sleep. Who wouldn’t want that?