More than Skin Deep?

Believe it or not, spring is on the way and although the current weather doesn't make us feel like baring much skin at all, before long it will be on our minds.

Skin is the body's largest organ and has many roles, including that of elimination through sweat, but also helping to regulate body temperature.

Many factors affect the health and appearance of the skin from environmental conditions, diet and age to genes and stress. Digestion also has a role to play as a sluggish toxic bowel can lead to skin eruptions.

What can go wrong?

Dry / Itchy / Flaky:

This is typical of Eczema and although there are no specific causes it can be linked to external factors such as irritating fabrics, washing powders and skincare products. Dry skin conditions affect the young and old alike and can be worsened by central heating and air-conditioning.

Stress often aggravates as it can promote inflammation and suppress the immune system, leading to a vicious cycle of recurring symptoms and negative feelings.

Oily Skin:

Sebum is the natural oil produced by skin to lubricate and protect, but over-production can lead to blocked pores and spots. While it is vital to keep the skin clean, dietary factors can help reduce inflammation and redness, speed skin healing and balance hormones.

Thread Veins and Rosacea:

This occurs when blood vessel walls become weakened and eventually rupture allowing blood to leak out. Excess weight, alcohol and spicy foods can aggravate the condition.

Cellulite:

The frustration of up to 90% of women regardless of their size, and a constant mission for the beauty industry. Women are more prone to cellulite as the fat chambers under the skin are deeper than men's and the connective tissue supporting these cells is thinner. In addition female hormones are responsible for a different distribution of fat, i.e. legs, bums and tums. Poor diet, poor detoxification and hormone imbalances can also have a detrimental affect as can age when skin starts to lose it's elasticity.