Dry
Skin Needs The Right Nutrients
By Gloria MacTaggart
The health of our skin, like any organ, is often
a reflection of our diet and lifestyle. Environmental
toxins and weather factors also come into play.
New skin cells are constantly being formed to replace
old or damaged cells but, as we age, our bodies
no longer function at the optimal level - the skin
loses moisture and elasticity, sebum production
decreases, inhibiting our protection against evaporation,
and the liver becomes less effective at eliminating
toxins. The result is the appearance of fine lines,
age spots, and dry skin.
It has been proven that much of this damage is
cause by free radicals – an oxygen molecule
which splits from the cells during the process
of metabolism. These molecules compromise the
integrity of other cells and deterioration occurs.
The body has a defense system – known as
the antioxidant system – to controls free
radicals. However, this system becomes less effective
as we age.
Modifying our diet to include more antioxidants,
or taking them in supplement form, boosts the
system and guards against deterioration.
The most important antioxidants are:
-- Carotenoids – converts
to vitamin A,
-- Vitamin C – necessary
for the production of collagen and connective
tissues, both of which firm the skin,
-- Vitamin E – prevents
the wayward oxygen cells from harming other cells
and thereby inhibits the ageing process,
-- Zinc – contributes
to the normal function of the sebaceous glands
ensuring smooth skin and promoting the healing
of scars, and
-- Silymarin – helps regenerate
new liver cells and aids the detoxification process.
This can be found in milk thistle and dandelion.
While these nutrients work internally to heal
the body and prevent further damage, it is also
necessary to protect your skin against environmental
toxins and other external stresses. Recent research
has revealed that a shielding lotion is the best
protection for your skin and keeps your own natural
oils and moisture at work to defeat dry skin.
There is no fountain of youth, but the combination
of these internal and external treatments will
help revitalize the body and relieve dry skin.
Author, Gloria MacTaggart contributes articles
on skin care for 21st Century Formulations. For
more information, visit http://www.skinmdnatural.com
Sands
of Time Multimedia Creations Home Page
Experience the Difference!
Also
visit our "Extas" Page!
Dry Skin Treatment. Slideshow
photo repairs, Photo Montage, Vacation Video Albums.
Sands of Time Multimedia Creations
|
