Let’s look at why quality hygiene routines are an act of self-love. Our skin is so overlooked and taken for granted. Because it’s the body’s largest organ, its health is critical. When you see dark circles under the eyes (“bags” or “circles”) what does it indicate about a person’s health or state of mind? What about the yellowing of the skin? Is that not a possible indication of jaundice or a liver condition? Have you thought about what role the skin plays in reflexology and acupuncture? Yes, our skin is the largest organ of the body and one of the most complicated. As such, it plays many roles in the maintenance of our health and our life. Think about it. Our skin is responsible for containing and protecting all the complexities that make-up the human body. It plays a role in immune defense, our ability to register sensations (pressure, vibration and pain, etc.), temperature regulation and even vitamin production. It tells us by fever if we have a serious infection. Our daily regimen determines how hard the skin has to work to play its part in keeping us healthy. It’s the first defense against pollutants and toxins in our environment. So yes, it matters what type of soap, lotion, shampoo, or conditioner we use on our bodies. Did you know using lotion affects how easily you get cut or you heal? Low priced, low-quality products make your skin work harder to do its job. In some cases, those products are actually poisoning you. The chemicals used in some products tear down, dry out and strip away important layers of the skin. The chemicals are further absorbed into the body causing a chain reaction based on whether the body views the ingredients as poison. To the contrary, the products we use can help clear, detox and work to assist the body in its natural defenses. So, yes, QUALITY hygiene routines are an act of self-love and may even help to save your life. HERE'S THE SCIENCE: The Cleveland Clinic confirms there are three main layers of the tissue which makes the skin: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. According to the National Cancer Institute: “The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, and protects the body from the environment. The epidermis contains the melanocytes (the cells in which melanoma develops), the Langerhans' cells (involved in the immune system in the skin), Merkel cells and sensory nerves. The epidermis layer itself is made up of five sublayers that work together to continually rebuild the surface of the skin.” According to NIH, “The dermis is a connective tissue layer sandwiched between the epidermis and subcutaneous tissue. The dermis is a fibrous structure composed of collagen, elastic tissue, and other extracellular components that includes vasculature, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands. It provides strength and flexibility to the skin.” According to the Johns Hopkins Medicine Health Library, “the hypodermis, contains contains many collagen cells as well as fat. Fat, in particular, helps insulate our body from the cold and act as a cushion for our internal structures (such as muscles and organs) when something hits us. Fat can also be called upon by the body in times of great need as an energy source. The hypodermis is home to most of the fat that concerns people when they are trying to keep their weight under control. The hypodermis also serves as an energy storage area for fat. This fat provides padding to cushion internal organs as well as muscle and bones, and protects the body from injuries.” Quality bath, body, cosmetics, and hair products, etc. are essential. The outermost layer (epidermis) does not have blood cells. It protects and then dies. In order for the other layers to function, it is necessary that we clean our skin. If we do not bathe, we smell. What is the smell? It is bacteria. If the bacteria are not removed, the smell can worsen and turn into infections in and on the skin. Take note of how you feel after you have washed your body vs. how you feel weighted down and even depressed when you don’t. When we bathe we are washing off the dead skin. In addition, our skin must be exfoliated several times a week to be healthy. Washcloths are good for daily bathing. Also, try exfoliating gloves and the various scrubbing brushes or accessories several times a week. The washing we do is helpful but is almost useless if you are using products with toxins which further tax the body through the skin. Take time to learn your skin type to determine the best type of products to use when cleansing and moisturizing your skin. One size does not fit all when it comes to body and skincare. If you have food allergies the skin is often affected. This speaks to my point even further. The skin absorbs and deposits energies into our system. Skin absorption is notably lower than ingestion but has an effect on the body all the same. Use skincare to your advantage. Use products which will give you overall health through detoxification and nourishment.
An additional component to product selection and routines is aromatherapy. The types of scents in the products can affect your emotional state. Products can energize or relax based on your needs. All of this plays a role in the synergy of the body. In keeping with the theme of this site, we look at ALL THINGS ESSENTIAL and body care through quality hygiene regimens is a critical part of your overall health.
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World According to Karen...BEAUTY & SKINCARE: This website is dedicated to sharing health and beauty products and tips passed down through my family and coupled with my Shiseido Cosmetic training. ArchivesCategories |