Spring Clean Your Beauty Routine

Nutrient deficiencies are among the biggest causes of lifelong, lackluster skin. And there are a few other daily basics you might be ignoring that will boost your skin beauty. Here are six things you can do now to get the glow this spring.
1) Pay attention to allergies and sensitivities.
You’ve heard it before – eliminate causes of inflammation and irritation now, and your skin will thank you later. Chronic inflammation has been linked to cancer, digestive dysfunction and a range of other diseases and disorders. But not everyone has the time to embark on a comprehensive elimination diet to identify specific food sensitivities. Instead, take a common-sense approach and avoid anything that causes headaches, joint pain, stomach problems or low energy.
2) Keep your blood sugar even.
That shaky feeling you get when you’ve had too much coffee and not enough food is not a badge of pride for being super productive – it’s a sign that you’re creating a stress response in your body – and your skin (and energy level) will soon reflect that. When your body doesn’t get a steady fuel supply, it starts breaking down your own tissue. That’s a good process when it’s regulated (as part of a weight loss plan) for example. But when it’s sporadic and extreme, extra toxins get released and your metabolism may even be altered. And as with most stressors, this process will show in your skin.
3) Really rest when you “rest.”
It’s common sense, but it’s amazing how easy it is to overlook this simple task. Errands, work catch-up, extra activities and any number of other things can prevent you from really resting when it’s time to slow down. Institutionalize some self-care by designating one day a week for concentrated rest. Or cultivate a few activity-based routines – like recurring massages, a sauna, or even a walk (sans smartphone). Meanwhile, make sure that good sleep happens. Your skin repairs itself at night, so this can be more important than any of the other things on this list.
4) Live for maximum nutrition.
Make it your mantra to avoid all emotional, physical and nutritional toxicity. This applies as much to the mid-afternoon Cheetos snack as it does to the people and relationships that drain you. Eat organic, declare a moratorium on processed snacks, take food-based (rather than synthetic) supplements and eat to support your own body’s natural cleansing ability. Liver-supporting foods include artichoke, high quality proteins and beets, among others.
5) Eat vitamin-dense food.
All but the most conscientious eaters have some kind of nutrient deficit to overcome, whether they know it or not. You may not have a detailed map of where your particular deficiencies are occurring, but you can start by taking an “across-the-board” approach.
Look for vegetables with vibrant, rich color. The old wives’ tale – that these pack a greater nutritional punch than their paler brethren – is true. Vividly hued spinach, kale or peppers have higher levels of vitamin C. The deeper the color, the denser the nutrients.
And while you’re at it, eating for your skin can’t hurt. Shore up deficiencies that can affect skin health by consuming foods with A, E, K2 and B-Vitamins, Calcium, Glysine and Magnesium.
6) Improve body (and mind) flexibility
Activities that promote mindfulness and keep your body and brain flexible and young are one of the best investments you can make in your skin’s long term health. A simple yoga practice, or even five minutes of daily meditation has been shown to relax your body, improve circulation and promote overall health.

Got nutrition questions? Call NDDA at 214-301-5078 to schedule your 30-minute consultation with North Dallas Dermatology Associates health consultant Candace Stone!

Candace Stone
Candace Stone is the resident health counselor at North Dallas Dermatology where she helps patients develop comprehensive plans to boost their overall health . . . Read more »

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