Four Ways to Rejuvenate Post-Summer Skin
/Too much road food. Slathering on store-bought sunscreen. Chlorine-filled pools. Rose all day. SOOO much time in the sun. Poor sleep… By the end of summer, many women are contending with symptoms of just not prioritizing their skin care like increased blemishes, redness, dry skin and sun damage.
The end of summer is the perfect time to refresh your post-summer skin from the inside out. While there are amazing natural skincare products on the market, your skin health is all about what’s on your plate.
You see… your skin is actually its own microbiome (like and connected to the gut) which requires a unique balance of good bacteria and cell integrity to thrive. An unhealthy gut microbiome contributes to skin inflammation which is exacerbated at times by a lack of the key nutrients and antioxidants our skin needs to rejuvenate itself. And as we contend with hormone imbalances and aging, excess testosterone can contribute to acne + unwanted hair. The beauty of our skin (and our hair and nails) is they can act as a mirror for our nutrient, gut and hormone balance so that we can take action to heal before our body goes even more haywire.
The two foods I recommend taking a pause from at the end of summer are sugar and dairy. Think of all those scrumptious summer ice cream cones you got to enjoy! While some women tolerate dairy especially raw or goat or sheep’s milk dairy, many do not. Studies have shown the consumption of milk products generates an increase in IGF-1 production by the liver and an increase in circulating insulin levelsTaking a 2-week time out from dairy and only reintroducing organic or pastured plain dairy yogurt or cheese can help you understand your personal relationship with dairy.
Sugar is the enemy of our gut and skin microbiomes, feeding the bad bacteria while adding to gut inflammation and a disrupted immune system not to mention blood sugar and hormone imbalances. Toss out those sugar-laden bottes of barbecue sauce, ketchup and other summer-esque condiments. Swap out your sweeteners for stevia or cinnamon and snack on naturally-sweet berries which are great for the skin!
And consider adding in these supportive nutrients to help put a fresh face on your fall.
Anti-oxidants: These little cells help populate your skin cells by protecting against environmental (read: sun) damage and natural aging processes. Many of us use them ON our skin like Vitamin C + E to prevent wrinkles, banish sun spots and increase brightness from aging, inflammation + pollution. but studies show eating them is even more powerful. My favorite sources include blueberries, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, spinach, tomatoes and kale.
Probiotic-rich food: Probiotics can be found in foods that are naturally fermented (aka without vinegar) and these little good-girl bacteria help to repopulate your gut and skin with healthy microbes! The best sources include plain yogurt (can be non-dairy), raw sauerkraut, kimchi and real pickles. While I do enjoy making my own, I also love Hawthorne Valley products which are locally-produced. Just add a teaspoon to a tablespoon to your lunch or dinner.
Healthy Fats: Plant-based fats from avocadoes, olives, nuts and seeds along with essential fatty acids from fish like salmon and sardines all help restore moisture to nourish dry, damaged skin. Coconut oil is especially helpful both topically and ingested - if along your way you picked up some fungal overgrowth (think: wet bathing suits or pool feet).
Skin-boosting herbal teas: Lemon balm, chamomile and lavender (you guessed it) act as calming agents to the skin. Try Traditional Medicinals’ Cup of Calm or Buddha Teas CBD Chamomile Blend for an added boost of anti-inflammatory CBD. My favorite skin-loving tea is a blend of anti-oxidant rich hibiscus tea with green tea and lemon balm. See recipe here.
