wellpark-tutor-kate-robertsons-top-ten-tips-for-gorgeously-healthy-skin
Friday 19th February 2010
1.Eat for beauty – a diet rich in anti-oxidants, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Try a big daily salad with a variety of different vegetables, organic is best, and if you can get them from your own garden even better. My favourite foods for healthy skin are lots of different colourful fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, berries, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and high quality proteins such as fish
2.Ensure you are getting enough water – water plumps up the skin and keeps both the skin and the eyes clear. Drink two litres a day. A glass of warm water with a squeeze of lemon upon rising is particularly good. Drink herb teas: try growing your own herbs such as lemon balm, peppermint, chamomile and bergamot - add a little honey and a slice of lemon to them
3.Use natural products – our body is a complex miracle, but daily we are assaulted by pollutants and other stressors so assist your body by using only pure skincare products. Read up on ingredients so you can ensure you buy as pure as possible and remember not to underestimate the power of simple home treatments
4.Cleanse your skin daily with a plant based cleanser – cleansers should remove all traces of dirt and makeup, but not leave the skin feeling dry. Avoid soaps and look for cleansers that are pH balanced
5.Moisturisers are key – to maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. They not only hydrate and smooth, but also protect the skin. Always choose a quality moisturiser. Botanically-based serums at night are divine: light, highly concentrated and feel amazing
6.Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate – regular use of body scrubs or brushes stimulates the circulation, increases elimination and encourages healthy, toned skin. Sugar mixed with oil is an easy way to make a body scrub: add a little vanilla, ginger or coffee to make them just like the ones in the day spas. For facial skin use a very gentle facial exfoliant once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and refine the complexion: avoid abrasive exfoliants on the face as these may damage the skin
7.Use face masks – once or twice a week to purify, tone and refine the skin. Homemade masks can be messy, but are worth it. I love clay masks; fresh fruit mask are another wonderful treat and give the skin a radiant glow. Try mixing ripe fruits such as strawberries, pears, peaches or papaya with a thick natural yoghurt and/or raw honey. Apply to the skin and leave for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water
8.Go easy on alcohol and coffee and avoid cigarettes and excess sun exposure – some time in the sun is fine but ensure you stay out of the sun during peak hours
9.Exercise daily – it oxygenates the skin resulting in healthier, firmer and more nourished skin. It also supports your body’s natural detoxification and is an excellent way to reduce stress. Go to the gym, do yoga, swim, or even just talk a walk each day, it will provide benefits
10.Smile – this makes everyone look good!