5 Tips for Natural Skin Care

Tip 1: Dry Brush Exfoliation

A dry brush exfoliation may be done before showering. According to alternative medicine practitioners, it eliminates dead skin cells and allows the skin to detoxify (skin is the largest organ of elimination). Dry brush exfoliation is also said to improve circulation and reduce puffiness. Some people may find the gentle pressure calming. A soft natural bristle brush is needed.

Tip 2: Improve Your Digestion

In alternative medicine, good skin is a reflection of a properly functioning digestive system. People with skin disorders such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis who also experience constipation and other digestive conditions may benefit, according to alternative medicine practitioners. Two common cuprits are a lack of fiber and fluids.

Not Enough Fiber. Many people lack fiber in their diets - the average person eats only 12 g of fiber a day. In 2002, the National Academy of Sciences Food and Nutrition Board established recommended fiber intakes. For men aged 19-50 years, 38 g fiber is recommended, and for men over 50, 31 g fiber is recommended. For women aged 19 to 50 years, 25 g fiber is recommended, and for women over 50, 21 g fiber is recommended.

Additional suggestions:

Add Whole Grains - Choose whole grain products over refined. Have brown rice instead of white or make your own 50:50 combination.
An Apple a Day - Have an apple, skin on, as a snack.
Eat Cauliflower - Try this delicious Roasted Cauliflower recipe!
High-fiber snacks - Snack on nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, such as dates, figs, and prunes.
Eat Beans and Legumes - Open a can of your favorite beans or legumes. Rinse them well and add them to your meal.
Ground Flaxseeds - For any easy fiber boost, sprinkle ground flaxseeds (available at health food stores) on rice, salads, oatmeal, or any other meal. Store flaxseeds in the fridge.

Tip 3: Get Moving

Do you sit at your desk for hours, only getting up to go to the bathroom? One of the best things you can do for your skin, stress level, and overall health is to get moving! According to some alternative medicine practitioners, inactivity may affect skin and promote bloating and puffiness, acne, cellulite, and loss of muscle tone. You'll learn more about exercise in Step 9 of the Wellness Makeover. Here are some quick suggestions:
Take a quick break to go outside and walk around the block.
Book a massage therapy appointment.
Close your door and stretch.
Go to the gym.
Start each morning by stretching.
Get a skipping rope.

Tip #4: Avoid Excess Sugar

In alternative medicine, sugar is linked to inflammation through a process called glycation, in which a glucose (sugar) molecule damages a protein molecule by adhering to it. The new molecules formed are called advanced glycation end-products, or AGEs.

While it is difficult to reduce sugar, it can be done! A gradual approach works best. In the next week, choose one thing you're going to do to decrease the amount of sugar you consume. For example, start by cutting the amount of sugar in your daily coffee or tea by half. Every week, find another way you can decrease your sugar intake.

​Tip #5: Eat Good Fats

Essential fatty acids are fats that must be obtained through diet. Here are some suggestions on getting more EFAs in your diet.
Flaxseed and walnut oil - Use flaxseed oil or walnut oil with balsamic vinegar as a salad dressing. Be sure to keep these oils refrigerated. They should not be heated or used for cooking.
Cold water fish - Sardines and wild Alaskan salmon.

Source by : http://altmedicine.about.com/od/optimumhealthessentials/a/5_Tips_Skin.htm