Support your skin naturally

Our skin is the largest and arguably one of the most essential organs in our body. Its layers work hard to act as the first line of defense between our internal body and the outside world, protecting us from microbes, pollution, chemical substances, and the harmful effects of UV emitted from the sun. The skin also regulates body temperature, controls moisture loss, maintains fluid balance, and recognizes sensations such as heat, cold, and pain to alert us of danger.  

Think of your skin as a window into your body; it is a wonderful reflection of your overall health and is often one of the first signs of illness within the body. If your skin is acting up, your body may be trying to tell you something. Frequent acne outbreaks, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, and other skin conditions may signal that things aren’t quite right.  

Luckily, there are ways you can naturally support your skin, read about some of our favorite natural skincare tips below!
 
Warning signs your skin may be sending about your overall health 

• Eczema: Red, itchy patches on the body may be caused by genetics, but they could also be a sign of a weakened immune system. 
• Itchiness: Unexplained itchiness may be a sign that your liver is not functioning to its best ability.  
• Cracked lips: Also known as cheilitis, cracked lips are often associated with a vitamin B deficiency.
• Dull skin: We all strive for dewy, glowing skin. Unfortunately, a number of things such as dehydration, build-up of dead skin cells, and lack of sleep can put a damper on our parade.
• Acne: Though we all experience the occasional zit, frequent outbreaks can indicate several health complications such as dehydration, poor diet, pollution, excessive stress, and lack of proper exercise.  

 
How you can naturally support your skin  
We must be mindful of what we put into our bodies. When it comes to the skin, especially, one thing is for sure - your daily habits directly impact its health and appearance.  
 
Chug, chug, chug…. Water 
Drinking adequate amounts of water per day will help eliminate toxins and maintain hydration throughout the body. All organs need proper hydration to function properly, and the skin is no exception. Drinking more water can lead to fewer wrinkles, reduced dark circles, improved complexion, and smaller pores!  
Consuming more water doesn’t have to be boring, either. Some ideas to up your hydration game: 

• Carry around a reusable water bottle 
• Include fresh fruits and herbs into your water bottle 
• Swap out your afternoon coffee for some warm water with honey and lemon 
• Drink a glass of water before each meal 
• Eat foods with a high water content (cucumbers, melon, celery, lettuce, zucchini) 

 
Incorporate natural products to help protect and nourish the skin 
The FDA does not regulate chemicals found in skincare products, and often they can cause skin irritation and reactions. By swapping out some (or all) of your products for natural options, you are choosing a gentler, safer, and more environmentally-friendly alternative. While we might be a bit biased, some of nature’s best ingredients come from our favorite little pollinators - bees!  

What are some of the best bee products to look for in skincare? 

• Raw Honey: Due to its acidic properties, honey naturally releases oxygen to promote healing. It is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and full of antioxidants, which can effectively reduce inflammation, lighten dark spots, and brightens the complexion. Found in Keepers Secret Salve, Whipped Body Butter, and Hydrating Lip Balms. 
• Bee Pollen: Bee pollen is rich in vitamins, minerals, lipids, amino acids, and enzymes that can help protect and heal the skin. It’s also high in antioxidants that are beneficial to reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular rejuvenation. Found in Keepers Secret Salve.
• Propolis: Honeybees use propolis to sanitize and protecting the hive from diseases. It’s rich in anti-inflammatory properties, and evidence shows it protects from some bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Found in Keepers Secret Salve and Whipped Body Butter. 
• Beeswax: Beeswax's exceptional anti-inflammatory properties encourage the healing of wounds by forming a barrier between the skin and the environment. It also acts as a natural emulsifier that leaves skin soft and moisturized without clogging pores. Found in Keeper Collective’s Lip Balm and Heel & Foot Balm.  

 
Interested in another fascinating, natural skincare ingredient? Click here to read all about the benefits of Calendula! 
 
Get your sweat on 
When you work up a sweat, blood is pumping, oxygen is flowing, and cells are energizing. It also has some stellar detoxification and beauty benefits as well! When we perspire - whether it be from physical exertion or a sauna - we can give our skin a good purge, helping shed dead skin cells and release unwanted toxins from the body.  
When it’s time for your post-sweat session shower, be sure to exfoliate well to help slough away dull, dead skin cells. Looking for a new, all-natural scrub? Check out Keeper’s Whipped Body Polishes!
 
Add toxin eliminating foods into your diet  
Built-up toxins in the body can lead to inflammation, immune suppression, weight gain, anxiety, headaches, and acne - just to name a few. While you can’t avoid toxins altogether, you can prevent toxicity by watching what you put into your body and increasing foods that help flush them out. Some naturally detoxifying foods include:  

• Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, and broccoli 
• Garlic 
• Avocados 
• Tumeric 
• Dark berries such as blueberries, acai berries, strawberries, and blackberries  
• Lemons 
• Green tea 

Say goodbye to toxic buildup and hello to a healthier version of yourself inside and out!