Skin Detoxification: Definition, Procedures and Products

Detoxification is any procedure of process that results in the elimination or removal of toxins and poisons from the body. These toxins are known to cause acne, premature aging, dry skin, and cellulite. While detoxification is an ongoing bodily process, there are hundreds of products and procedures that can enhance and speed the process.

Eating a balanced diet, rich in organic fruits and vegetables is the first step in an internal detoxification regime. Your skin requires certain nutrients to maintain a healthy appearance. The antioxidant vitamins C, E, and beta carotene help combat the adverse effects of free radicals and ultra-violet light. Selenium and zinc are noted to aid in the healing process of the skin, and to build new skin tissue. Vitamin A is used to reduce sebum levels in the skin, according to www.eklbc.com . The use of potassium for improved skin elasticity, and vitamin B-6 to reduce breakouts, are also recommended. Multi-vitamins may be the best way to be sure that your skin is getting all that it needs to eliminate waste and stay healthy. It is very important to stay hydrated, 8, eight ounce glasses of water a day helps the body to flush out harmful toxins.

Occasionally, you may want to step up the waste elimination process. A line of teas, marketed under the name Laci Le Beau works well for this purpose. There are three flavors of the herbal Super Dieters tea, and they all have a pleasant taste. I advise trying the tea on a weekend, when you have nothing else planned, to determine how these teas will affect you personally.

The Herb Research Foundation states that the skin absorbs up to 60% of the chemicals in the hygiene products and cosmetics that we use on a daily basis. Many of these chemicals are known carcinogens, (cancer causing agents), and may contribute to dry, itchy skin, reduced elasticity, decreased elimination capacity, and acne. I recommend that you switch your usual products for a skin care regime containing only natural and organic ingredients, free of any dyes or perfumes. Companies like www.naturalcosmetics.ca offer a variety of cleansers, lotions, cosmetics, and hair care products. These organic versions are not much more expensive than the products that we are already buying. They are better for you, and better for the environment.

Exfoliation provides the most immediate visual result. By removing dead skin cells at least once a week, you can enhance the ability of the body to detoxify itself, and promote the skin rejuvenation process. Exfoliation can be done at home, by using a washcloth or body poof, or loofah in the shower, a brisk toweling after the shower, or by the use of one of many exfoliating scrubs on the market. I prefer ones made by Dove because they seem to have a less drying effect.

Dry skin brushing is a process that is rapidly gaining popularity. Dry skin brushing stimulates the internal detoxification process by providing an internal massage to other organs that are important to the waste elimination process. While the skin is the largest of these organs, dry skin brushing involves stimulation of the kidneys and liver. By briskly brushing the skin, you will also promote blood circulation. On the outside of the body, dry skin brushing reduces cellulite, removes layers of dead skin, tones the muscles, and stimulates circulation. For the exact procedure, see www.naturalhealthtechniques.com .

Remember that you skin is a vital organ, and you should treat it with great care. A softer brush with natural bristles is recommended for dry skin brushing. If you have circulatory problems, or a history of blood clots, consult your physician before undergoing this, or any other massage-type therapy.

The use of a sauna weekly has been shown to reduce the level of toxins in the body by up to 75%, (www.chirokelly.com). Whatever method of detoxification you choose, it can make you look better, feel better, and reduce stress. We should all remember to take the time to care for ourselves mentally, as well as physically.