The kind of lifestyles we lead these days make it increasingly difficult for our bodies to reduce the level of toxins we are exposed to adequately. This is mostly because we regularly and actively consume toxins – from junk food to excessive alcohol.
It is, therefore, vital that we understand and apply diverse ways to detox our systems.
How does the body detox?
The organ responsible for removing toxins and metabolic waste from the body is the liver. It converts them into water-soluble compounds, which pass from the body through urine.
WHERE DO THE TOXINS GO?
The liver transforms those waste products that are not water-soluble into bile. This bile moves to the intestines then exits the body through our bowels.
The toxins that are not eliminated or entirely removed by these two methods leave the skin via sweat. Detoxing helps the body carry out these processes effectively, thus it should be done regularly.
How to stimulate your lymphatic system
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins. We've highlighted 4 of our favorite ways to stimulate the lymph and support skin detoxing below:
4 ways to include beauty detoxing into your daily routine
1. Dry brushing
This practice has its roots in ancient Ayurvedic times. You can either use a natural bristle brush, or jute mittens.
HOW TO DRY BRUSH
Working from your toes going up, use circular motions while moving your strokes toward the heart. When you reach the midsection, start at the neck and brush downwards, using circular motions.
When brushing over the stomach, go left to right—this follows the natural flow of digestion.
At the end of the process, your skin should be a little red, but not painful. Finish up with a natural moisturizer like our Rosehip & Calendula Triple Cream.
Once you get used to this, it will only take 1-2 minutes of your day.
2. Rebounding
Who said trampolines are only for kids? Throw out that "rule" and have some fun while maintaining good health. The rebounder (mini-trampoline) has been studied and proven to stimulate your lymphatic system and circulation effectively. It also significantly improves your fitness.
You only need a 15-minute jumping session to get your whole system pumping. Also, there are rebounders of various sizes in case you're worried about space constraints in your house.
3. Bathing
Take your clean-up time from basic to luxurious and enjoyable by adding Epsom salts or other detox minerals to your bath.
Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) draw out toxins through the skin. So go ahead and soak in a tub filled with these minerals. Your body will appreciate the royal treatment.
4. Facial + body massage
Massages can stimulate the body's natural detoxification process. During and after a massage, your blood circulation increases. This boosts the body's self-cleaning mode.
You can enjoy the benefits from either getting a massage from someone else or self-massage.
Detoxing the skin
Instead of struggling to remove waste from the body, it's better to avoid taking in toxins in the first place.
For example, protect your kidneys by drinking enough pure water and avoiding dietary stressors such as coffee and alcohol. Protecting your skin begins by being conscious of the products you use on it.
Three steps to purifying your skincare:
1. Define your skincare "diet" style and find a balance
Just as you choose a diet (vegan, Paleo, Keto, etc.) that works with your lifestyle, and that helps you achieve your goals without compromising your values, do the same for your skincare.
MAKE CONSCIOUS CHOICES
Maybe you love a specific moisturizer (which is full of toxic ingredients), yet it brings you joy. What to do? First, acknowledge that you're using something harmful to your body. Then decide if you would like to use a healthier alternative.
There are many all-natural options these days, such as our products at Sole Toscana.
2. Reduce toxin absorption in every category possible.
According to the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) 2004 study, the average American woman uses 12 personal care products or cosmetics a day, containing 168 different chemicals. Imagine how many more products we use now.
LOOKING AT LABELS
Apart from skincare, you should read the ingredient lists of your makeup, hair care, shower products, dental, body, and household cleaners. These products come in contact with your skin and can result in the absorption of toxins. It is overwhelming to try and overhaul everything you use all at once; the more realistic path is to replace them slowly over time.
3. Start with skincare
Of the categories of products we use, everyday skincare products are the highest usage numbers. Therefore, when we clean up the toxins in our everyday skincare, we are getting the most significant improvement results. Also, skincare currently has the most alternatives in the market, making it easy and enjoyable to look for healthier options.
THE DETOXING JOURNEY
These days, there is a lot of scary education about toxic ingredients. The number of harmful agents seems endless. However, don't let fear motivate your choices.
Instead, change up one category improvement at a time, stay positive, celebrate every small win, and enjoy the detoxing journey.
With love,
The Sole Toscana Beauty Team
