The Skin’s Layers
The Epidermis - the outermost layer of the skin. This is where you lose about a million cells in a 24 hour period. You must gently exfoliate at least 3x a week to prevent a build of dead cells that can clog pores and cause pimples and/or blackheads.
The Dermis - holds our collagen and elastin. Collagen begins to break down as we get older, but we can now easily supplement with natural sources along with getting in our daily doses of antioxidants, fruits and vegetables.
The Hypodermis - Here is where and we can find our superficial fascia! Don't think your face needs exercise and toning like the rest of you? Why wouldn't it? It's got the same layers! Jade rollers and facial stones are great for this. You can also try massage and facial yoga!
The Acid Mantle & pH
The acid mantle is a thin, protective layer on our skin’s surface. It is made up of sebum (free fatty acids) excreted from the sebaceous glands, which then mixes with lactic and amino acids from sweat to produce the skin’s pH, the ideal being around 5.5. Two major factors influence our skin’s pH; external factors, everything coming in contact with our skin, and internal factors, what we put into our bodies. Internal pH should stay within the 6.3-6.6 researched range.
In order to properly hydrate your skin it needs to be slightly moist. If the skin does not receive proper hydration it can cause a whole host of problems. For example, If it’s bone dry and you slap a lotion on the skins surface, that’s exactly where it will stay, and mix with dead skin, collect oil, etc. This doesn’t exactly lead to beautiful, healthy glowing skin. Aim to wash your face only once a day and use water or a damp cloth in-between.
How to apply your skin care products for proper hydration and balance:
- Cleanse. Air dry for 1-2 minutes.
- Tone. Air dry for 1-2 minutes.
- Apply Serum. Air dry for 1-2 minutes.
- Moisturize
Beauty Food Pantry List:
*Think colors of the rainbow and include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables daily*
Blueberries, Raspberries, Strawberries, Pomegranate, GOJI berries, Acai berries, Mango, Banana, Pineapple, Watermelon, Lemon & Lime.
Celery, Cucumber, Carrot, Peppers, Red beets, Radish, Spinach, Kale, Tomato, Mushrooms, Zucchini, Asparagus, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Avocado, Sweet potato, Onion, & Garlic.
Algae (Spirulina & Chlorella), Chia seeds, Hemp seeds, Flax seeds, Ginger, Tumeric, Sprouts, Pumpkin seeds, Cacoa, Green tea, White tea, Rose hips tea, & Moringa leaf powder.
Coconut oil, Coconut milk, Avocado oil, Beans, Wild rice, Black rice, Basmati rice, Buckwheat, & Oats.
Summary:
Pave the way for new cell growth (use a facial loofa pad at least 3x a week). The shower is a great time to exfoliate the face and body!
Only wash once a day, and moisturize properly to maintain the skins delicate balance and to give you that fresh, young, and plumped look!
Stock up on beauty foods for gorgeous skin from the inside out.
Top product picks from The Hydro-Line with Antioxidants- Toner, Serum, Gel-Moisturizer, Oil Cleanser & Body Balm for Hair, Skin, & Nails)
None of the statements or products contained herein this article are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.