Internal and external factors of skin health - (Internal)
When it comes to skin health it is essential to consider all internal factors such as hormones, adrenal function, thyroid function, and detoxification pathways. As well as external factors like skin care, makeup products, diet and nutrition, lifestyle choice, and possibly your tap water. In this two-part blog, we will look more closely at each factor of skin health & how you can make small changes that will leave you with glowing skin!
Reproductive hormones
Starting with reproductive hormones, more specifically hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. These two hormones contribute to the thickness and hydration of the skin as well as collagen production. Imbalances of both of these hormones can lead to increased oil production, dry skin, hyperpigmentation, skin sensitivity, or redness. Ensuring you eat a healthy balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and prioritise sleep is a great way to help your hormones balance. Some herbs and nutritional supplements can also be of aid such as this balance skin support product.
Adrenals
Adrenal function is another important internal factor that may disrupt skin. When we experience chronic stress our adrenals respond by overproducing the stress hormone cortisol, which may also lead to inflammation of the skin & therefore, acne. Supporting your adrenals is a lifelong task but with effective outcomes. Engaging in stress-reducing activities daily, managing a balanced diet, reducing stimulants, eating regular meals and getting good quality sleep will have a positive impact on your adrenal, skin and overall health.
Thyroid
Your thyroid is essential for metabolism, energy, and hormone production but plays a significant role in the health of your skin too as the thyroid hormones T3 & T4 regulate skin cell turnover. Imbalances to thyroid hormones can lead to dry or rough skin & acne. To support your thyroid health start by prioritising foods rich in iodine, selenium, zinc, and b vitamins as they are needed for thyroid function. Great sources are seaweed, seafood, brazil nuts, and lean proteins. If you suspect your thyroid might be contributing we recommend booking in a consultation and testing your functional thyroid markers with us.
Detoxification
Lastly, your detoxification pathways. This includes your gut, kidney, and liver. These three organs are responsible for detoxing toxins and hormones from the body and if they aren’t working well this is when toxins and hormones can build up and lead to acne and other health issues. Ways to support gut detoxification is to prioritise fibre, a variety of whole foods, and hydration. To support your kidneys ensure you’re hydrated and add in electrolytes and good quality salt daily. For your liver, reduce your toxin load by choosing clean house products, and natural beauty products, also increase foods such as cabbage, leafy greens, brussel sprouts, ginger, turmeric, and garlic to help with liver detoxification pathways.
In part two of this blog series, we will deep dive into some external contributors to acne and other skin complaints.
If you believe your skin conditions are chronic, and you would like personalised support, please book in a consultation with us.
