I was blessed by the skin Gods and somehow never had acne in my teenage years. However, a year before my wedding, I developed what my facialist called “cystic acne”. It didn’t look all that terrible, but it was deeply rooted under my skin hurt like a mo’ fo’. I’ve since learned how to control it with the product I use and by avoiding certain foods (sugar tends to make it flare up).
When my friend Adina told me that she was writing a book about how to eat for your skin, I could not have been more excited. She is one of the funniest yet knowledgable people I have ever met. And her book, Skin Cleanse, does not disappoint. Her writing is equally as hilarious and smart as she is.
{I’m giving away a copy of the book today so scroll all the way down for the deets!}
I wanted to share a few things that I learned from Skin Cleanse that are guaranteed to help you out, no matter what your skin type.
5 foods that you can put on your face (or eat, whatever):
1. Apple cider vinegar is the best astringent in nature because it helps balance your skin’s pH, making you both less oil and less dry (win/win!). Apply one part vinegar and four parts water to your face with cotton or a spritzer.
2. Coarse sugar makes a great body scrub. It’s like a natural version of a chemical peel! Scrub it on your body while you’re in the shower, so it melts quickly, leaving your skin cleansed and smooth.
3. Coconut oil is an amazing body moisturizer that soaks in quickly, leaving you hydrated for hours. It’s antibacterial and antifungal, meaning it will help heal rashes, scars, infections. and acne. Apply it right after you shower, when your pores are hydrated and ready.
4. Honey kills bacteria while soothing an moisturizing skin. It’s also anti-inflammatory and hydrating to your pores. Rub it on your face and leave for a chunk of time. Rinse with warm water and a wash cloth.
5. Fine-grain sea salt is especially great for acne or quick treatments during flare-ups. It also cleans deeply, removes dead skin cells and balances moisture. Wet your skin, put some sea salt on your wet hand so it sticks, then pat it gently on your skin. Leave it for a few minutes or rinse immediately.
A deoxifying face mask recipe:
Chickpeas are an amazing detoxifyier. They pull out harmful toxins, neutralize free radicals, heal sun damage, and energize your skin. Turmeric regulates oil production, reduces inflammation, and heals scars, especially those from acne.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon chickpea flour or mashed chickpeas
– Generous pinch of turmeric powder (enough to tint the mixture yellowish)
– 1 tablespoon water
Directions:
– Combine chickpeas and turmeric in a small bowl
– Stir in the water
– Apply with your fingers (It will feel like you’re putting hummus on your face . . . you kind of are)
– Let it dry before washing off
– Keep it sealed in the fridge for up to a week
– Will make 2-3 applications
Take Adina’s Skin Cleanse challenge:
– Go completely makeup/product-free for one day (2 days if you¹re feeling bold!)
– During this time, substitute your regular skincare and personal care products with natural, food-grade ingredients (see above!). The book has a myriad of recipes which will help guide you through this process!
– Eat clean during your “cleanse.” Your diet and skin health are directly related, so eating plenty of whole foods and vegetables, drinking a lot of water, and eliminating processed foods is critical.
– Share your experience! Tell me about your skin cleanse experience. Journals are encouraged, as is photo documentation of your DIY concoctions or beautiful bare face!
I’m not just saying this because she’s my friend. I’m saying this because the book is damn funny, incredibly informative, and if you have ever had any issue with your skin ever, it will help you. I promise. Buy the book. Trust me on this one.
Giveaway!
Comment below with your favorite natural skin care secret. I’ll randomly select a winner tomorrow (Thursday) and announce it here. Good luck!
