Deeper Skincare

Skin symptoms – acne, rashes, breakouts, dullness, sensitivity, early lines, dark circles – are not just external problems. They are messages about the state of your nervous system, liver, nutritional status, hydration levels, stress load, and the way you self-care each day.

 The condition of your skin is a direct reflection on what is happening inside your body, which is why optimal skin support goes deeper – not just skin deep. Thoughtful external skin care matters, of course. But what we put into our bodies is even more important.

When internal and external skin supports are combined, the results are far more impactful, which is why I feel it’s best to support skin both ways. For purposes of this article, we will focus on widely-overlooked internal skincare.

Internal Skin Support

Hydration

Vital to support bodily functions like circulation and detoxification, every cell in your body relies on hydration for optimal function. Yet most people go through life chronically dehydrated.

A deficit in hydration can thicken blood over time. As we move through life, blood viscosity continues to increase. When blood gets too thick, its ability to deliver nutrients to where they are needed can become compromised.

One way to improve long-term dehydration is to bring in citrus. The electrolytes and phytochemicals in lemons and limes supercharge water so it can drive deeper into cells. A good ratio is half a lemon squeezed into 16 oz. of water. Sensitive individuals can start with less and work up from there. Since limes are generally smaller and yield less juice, I recommend doubling the amount (one full lime per 16 oz. of water).

For a little sweetness and added glucose nourishment, try stirring in a little raw honey (a teaspoon to tablespoon, to taste) for lemonade-like refreshment. I personally sip about 96 oz. of this combination all day long, but aim for what feels doable for you. Consistency of effort is what makes the biggest impact.

Nourishment

As an advocate for natural therapeutics, I believe that food is always the best place to start when reversing mineral deficiencies like silica, especially for children. Silica-rich foods include cucumbers, melons, wild blueberries, artichokes, asparagus, fresh aloe vera leaf (not bottled), and even kale stems.

 These foods provide the best support when routinely consumed for a length of time. For creative ways to get silica-rich foods into little ones, consider 1:1 support with me.

Rest

The optimal sleep window is 10:00 pm to 2:00 am. If you’re going to bed past 10:00 pm, you may be missing out on some prime sleep time. The closer we can get to sleep near 10:00 pm, the more optimally the body is able to rest and refuel for the next day.
 

Mineral Support

Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are already recognized as essential, but another foundational mineral rarely heard about is silica. As a building block for collagen, silica is key in building and strengthening bones and connective tissues while protecting the body from demineralization and age-related bone loss. It can also promote faster recovery with fractures and pulled muscles. 

I recommend silica to any clients dealing with hair loss, dental issues, sports injuries, or skin issues like sagging skin or early wrinkles. It is also fantastic for strengthening a weak pelvic floor, and supporting birth/postpartum recovery.

Other Ways to Bring in Silica

Supplementation is another powerful way to ensure your body gets enough silica through all stages of life. One great option is Orgono Living Silica. You can drink it or add it to juices or smoothies. For sensitive clients or pregnant/nursing moms, I recommend the mineral-based collagen booster without added herbs. For women who are not pregnant, nursing, or sensitive, the plant-based version includes horsetail for added mineral heft. 
 
Other great sources of silica are nettle and MSM. Nettle is a potent adaptogenic herb that can be grown in backyards and patios, then steeped into teas and infusions. If you prefer to take nettle as a tincture, my preferred brand is Vimergy. As an affiliate of Vimergy products, I am able to offer a 20% discount for new customers and a 5% discount code to returning customers. Nettle has a mildly sweet flavor that can be taken under the tongue or added to juices or smoothies. Vimergy’s MSM capsules also contains a highly bioavailable form of calcium. You can use my discount codes above to purchase MSM.
 

More Internal Support for Skin

Supporting the liver is foundational for optimal skincare. Dandelion and milk thistle are two herbs known to provide liver support. 
Dried dandelion can be steeped into teas and infusions. Consider either of two dandelion tea options from the Traditional Medicinals brand of herbal teas. 
 
Milk thistle can be found in tea or tincture, and the one I recommend is sold by Vimergy. You can find it with my discounts of 20% off for new customers and 5% off for returning customers.
 
Vitamin C is a must-have for everyone, not only for superb immune support but its ability to support the liver’s detoxification processes. You can use my discount codes above to purchase Vimergy’s Micro C. 
 

Lymphatic Support

Unable to move on its own, the lymphatic system relies on manual movement to pump fluids. You can support your skin by engaging in lymphatic movement each day. This can be as simple as a daily walk or gentle rebounding. Other supportive, low-impact activity includes Qi Gong, stretching, and yoga.

The Big Picture

Firm, toned skin and natural glow all begin with what is happening inside your body. When we listen to the body’s messages and support ourselves internally as much as externally, skin can start to reflect those positive changes.