It’s that time of the year when many of us make healthier choices. This includes exercising more, eating healthier, and detoxifying our bodies. Here are five easy ways to detoxify your skin naturally.
1. Oil cleansing
It works on the principal that “like dissolves like”, therefore “oil dissolves oil”. You may use any natural oil of your choice, such as coconut, olive, castor, or almond oil. Gently massage a small amount of oil for at least one or two minutes until it saturates your skin.
Place a clean washcloth under very hot water and wring it dry. Open it and place it on your face until it cools. Repeat the process using the other side of the wash cloth. You may also gently wipe off any remaining oil. The steam from the washcloth helps to dissolve any dirt on your skin.
You do not need to moisturise your skin after oil cleansing as there will still be a thin layer of oil on your skin. It is normal for your skin to go through an adjustment period when you start oil cleansing. This could last from a week to three weeks.
2. Skin brushing
Dry brushing the skin stimulates your lymphatic system and helps the body detoxify naturally. Brushing also exfoliates the skin by getting rid of dead cells and clearing your pores. Use a firm, natural brush with a handle, which will allow you to access your entire body.
You can brush daily or weekly. Start at your feet, brushing upwards towards your heart. Brush each section five to 10 times then move on to the next section. Brush before your morning shower and don’t brush too hard.
3. Bentonite clay
Natural clays have been used throughout history to help the body get rid of toxins. Even animals instinctively turn to eating clay during times of illness.
Bentonite clay is known for its ability to draw out toxins from the skin, and can be used both internally and externally. This clay has a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge in toxins. Therefore it absorbs the toxins and expels them from the body.
You can buy bentonite clay in powder form from most health shops. Mix a teaspoon of powder with a little water and apply it on your face as a mask. Allow it to dry and then wash off. Do not allow bentonite clay to come in contact with metal as this will reduce its effectiveness. Therefore use a plastic spoon rather than a metal one. A weekly mask will do wonders for your skin.
4. Body scrubs
Body scrubs exfoliate your skin and improve the body’s circulation. Make your own scrub from ingredients you already have. Use ground coffee with olive oil, or sugar with olive oil, or coconut oil with sea salt. Scrub your body weekly for better looking skin.
5. Detoxifying bath
Soak in a detoxifying bath at least once a week to help to draw out impurities from your skin and to flush out toxins. Add two cups of Epsom salts and 1 cup of bicarbonate of soda to a bath of running water. You may also add a few drops of an essential oil of your choice such as lavender, or peppermint.
The bicarbonate of soda helps to neutralise chemicals such as chlorine and increases mineral absorption. Epsom salts help your body to absorb minerals such as magnesium, while aiding in the elimination of toxins. Soak for at least 20 minutes. Try to use a natural soap and natural moisturiser as these are free from chemicals and toxins.