…clogged. Why? There are a number of reasons for it. For example, your own dry skin cells have accumulated on the outer layers of your skin without being scrubbed off. Using mineral-oil based moisturizers or wearing tight-fitting clothes can also cause your pores to clog. And as a result, your skin will look rather lifeless, dull and rough.
The purpose of skin dry brushing is to slough off the outer layers of the skin, allowing the pores to breathe and detoxify more effectively. It’s a great daily ritual to do in the morning, though some people may prefer to do it at the end of the day instead. It doesn’t really matter.
Use a vegetable-fiber bristled brush, preferably with a long handle to help you reach hard-to-reach areas on your back. Brush all over your body (except your chest and face) for about 10 minutes in a circular motion when your skin is completely dry. Don’t scrub too hard until you look all red. Use just enough pressure to make your skin feel clean and glowing. Then jump into a warm shower or bath. Try to avoid having a hot shower and bath because hot water tends to dehydrate the skin especially in cold weather.
Detoxifying Baths
Have a detox bath once a week to eliminate toxins and pamper your skin. Just add the following to warm bath water: 1 cup baking soda (to help neutralize the acids in the toxins), 1 cup Epsom salts (to draw more fluids and toxins out of the skin), 5 drops lavender essential oil (gentle antiseptic), 5 drops chamomile essential oil (anti-inflammatory and antifungal) and 5 drops lemongrass essential oil (skin revitalizer). Don’t use lemongrass essential oil, however, if you have sensitive skin.
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Skin Tea
This skin tea recipe may help relieve various skin problems, including acne and psoriasis. It is also recommended for burn victims. This special skin tea consists of 1 1/2 parts dried nettle, 1 part dried calendula flowers, 1 part dried red clover flowers, 1/2 part dried symphytum leaf and 1/2 part dried lavender buds. You should be able to find these dried flowers and leaves at health food stores.
To make it, boil 1 quart of water. Remove from heat and add 4 – 5 teaspoons of tea mixture. Steep for about half an hour and then strain. If possible, try this tea after your bath – its comforting effects can help promote great sleep.
There are also various detox teas on the market, so talk to a qualified expert about one that may work for you.
Sauna
Go to a sauna once a week if you can. It not only helps eliminate toxins, but also increases flexibility in your muscles and blood vessels. Besides, sitting in a sauna is quite relaxing; your stress and anxiety tends to go away during a nice steam bath. Before you go to a sauna, however, consult your doctor if you are pregnant or have heart problems. Also remember to drink a lot of water before you get into a sauna. And if you feel ill or find it difficult to breathe, leave the sauna immediately.
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Ultimately, remember that your beauty is often determined by the quality of life, your lifestyle and your habits.
By Juliette Samuel, BDO Contributing Writer
Juliette Samuel is a person who definitely knows beautiful when she sees it. Juliette has had a very eclectic career working in and around the beauty industry.
She has worked as an instructor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She has also been a Professional Image Consultant.
Currently, Juliette works as a Skin Care Therapist, acting President and Chief Nose for NYRAJU Skin Care. As such she is in charge of product formulation and development of all scents produced for the line. Juliette is also a member of NAHA-The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy, The Society of Cosmetic Chemist and is the Fragrance Editor for BellaOnline.
What does all that mean for you? It means Juliette is ever-on-her-toes when it comes to the type of information that you want and need to know!
