The skin is the body's largest organ and a natural detoxifier, but even it needs help staying pure. Why?
air pollution
It contains PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons), which can lead to skin cancer, dehydration, compromised barrier function, inflammation, loss of elasticity and firmness, and uneven skin tone.
cigarettes
Smoking just 1 can constrict blood flow in the skin for up to 90 minutes.
stress
More stress can lead to more oil production, more redness and slower cell turnover.
product buildup
Heavy use of sunscreen and make-up without deep cleansing can lead to skin dullness, congestion and irritation.
Now consider that skin can shed 30,000 dead skin cells every minute and generate 3.4 fluid ounces of sweat every day, while the average woman spends only 20 seconds (20 seconds!) washing her face. It's no wonder skin can look tired and lackluster at times!
For a brighter, healthier glow, cut down on the main toxins above and build these steps into your regular skin care routine:
Deep clean. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables and drinking at least eight glasses of water a day helps your skin flush out toxins from the inside. But to thoroughly remove product buildup from the outside, make sure you are double cleansing daily (see the Dermalogica Double Cleanse).
Exfoliate. Step up your game by using a gentle formula like Daily Resurfacer or Daily Microfoliant – designed for daily use. The goal is to frequently slough away dulling, dead skin cells and toxins that you are purging from your skin.
Bonus expert advice: Dry brushing your body with a firm-bristled brush before showering can also help remove dead skin cells, stimulate lymphatic fluid and improve circulation to rid skin of impurities.
Apply a detoxifying masque. Whenever your skin needs a fast pick-me-up, reach for a formula that contains ingredients like Activated Charcoal, to help adsorb deep-dwelling dirt and impurities. Niacinamide and Kaolin and Bentonite clays can also help refine pores and balance skin tone.
Hydrate. Complete your detox regimen by keeping your skin's moisture levels balanced. Opt for a moisturizer that contains Hyaluronic Acid or Sodium Hyaluronate, and a primer such as HydraBlur Primer, designed to help lock in optimum hydration levels.