Glowing From The Inside Out

Posted on by HellenRose

Hyperpigmentation, discolouration and acne marks are things that we all go through and dreadfully hate. Ditch the lightening creams and try out some of the ways that I have gotten my skin back to its even and buttery state.

Although, before we start I urge you to go and see a doctor if you are suffering from severe skin problems as this may be a serious problem. 

Cleansing your skin properly: I recommend that you start using an electronic face cleanser which can be purchased at either Clicks or Dischem. Secondly, use a face wash that is best suited for your skin type, your skin shouldn’t feel tight and squeaky clean after the wash. Cleansing your skin will get rid of all the bacteria and dead skin cells which are trapping new skin cells underneath. Rinse your skin with lukewarm water rising upwards not downwards as doing so pulls down your face and causes wrinkles. 

Another way of brightening your skin is to use some sort of mask or scrub for further TLC. Here are two of my favourite skin mask recipes: 

1. Skin brightening and toning mask 
  • 1 tbsp. of honey 
  • ¼ tsp turmeric
  • 2 tbsp. of plain yogurt 

This mask helps with fading and soothing acne scars. The turmeric slows down enzymes that produce melanin in skin cells and it protects skin against environmental toxins. The yogurt soothes and moisturizes the skin leaving it soft and plump. Although, be careful as turmeric does stain so make sure that you are using an old make up brush to apply it onyour face. You can use this treatment twice or three times a week but make sure not to leave it on for more than 20mins. 

2. Natural glowing skin scrub 
  • 1 tbsp. honey
  • ½ lemon (for the juice)
  • 1 tbsp. brown sugar 

This scrub helps with fighting the bacteria that causes blemishes and it softens the skin. The honey is a natural antibacterial, so it is great for acne treatment and prevention. It moisturizes and smooths the skin and it slows down aging. The lemon is also antibacterial and it is rich in vitamin C and citric acid which both aid in brightening your skin when used over time. You can also use this scrub twice or three times a week. Make sure to scrub your skin gently in small circles because it can be abrasive which can cause you to hurt your skin if you are not gentle. 

Immediately after using these treatments make sure to tone your skin lightly making sure that you hit all your problematic areas. I tone my skin with a combination of witch hazel and rose water which can be purchased at Dischem. Afterwards, follow up with your eye cream and moisturizer. Moisturizers that contain glycolic acid are great for removing dark marks and uneven skin tone. 

I could list all the tips and tricks in the world, but if you’re not eating right, your skin won’t look right. Eating healthy can benefit you in a number of ways but most importantly it helps to build healthy tissue s on the outside so that your skin is stronger and less likely to fall victim of skin issues.

 

Here are a few foods which you can consume for brighter, healthier skin: 

1. Carrot, ginger and green tea: Blend all of these ingredients together to form a juice and drink it in the morning. I love this blend because of all of the amazing properties which the ingredients contain. Carrots are full of beta-carotene and vitamin A which means fewer flaky dead skin cells which could have combined with the sebum and cause clogged pores. The vitamin A plays an essential role in reducing the development of skin cancer cells. Green tea contains catechins with proven anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Lastly, ginger contains antioxidant properties that prevent damage and protect against aging. It also improves skin tone and skin elasticity.  
2. Spinach: this can be prepared in whichever way you prefer. It contains high levels of folate, and essential B vitamin, which helps maintain and repair DNA, which may reduce the likelihood of skin cancer-cell growth.
3. Almonds and walnuts: Almonds are full of vitamin Em which helps repair scarred skin cells and defends against sun damage. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and works to keep your body free of dangerous free radicals. Walnuts are full of polyunsaturated fatty acids which may be able to lower the risk of skin cancer or slow its development. 
4. Flaxseeds: these help alleviate inflammatory skin issues and improve overall hydration in skin cells. They offer a lot of omega-3 fatty acids which erase spots and iron out fine lines. 
5. Avocado: this can be either used topically on the skin or consumed. Avocado is rich in mono-saturated fatty acids, which have been proven to hydrate and shield the skin by lowering the risk of premature aging. 
6. Broccoli and bell peppers: These are all high in vitamin C which helps smooth out the skin. It helps reduce wrinkles and Crows feet. It is also essential for growth of skin, muscle tissue as well as building collagen. 
7. Salmon and lean meats: Salmon is full of omega-3s and helps slow premature aging. Lean meats contain zinc and iron for healthy skin functioning and they help the skin to regenerate so that it doesn’t look dull. 

Finally, be patient with your skin and allow it to heal in its own time.

Written by: Bridgette Strohmaier

 

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