Holistic skincare - Start your skin healing journey
Holistic wellness practices are increasingly sought after for guidance, but this has also led to confusion about what these practices really mean in terms of skincare and skin treatment. A holistic approach to skincare is often associated with mixed and misleading marketing terms such as "natural," "organic," "clean," or "ancient traditions." In reality, a holistic approach to skin encompasses a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing the root causes of imbalances in the skin. at its core, a holistic approach to skincare is nothing new. its going beyond the symptom, its a journey towards finding the cause.
What is holistic skincare?
Holistic skincare is a comprehensive approach that combines daily skincare rituals, balanced nutrition, and mindful lifestyle changes to foster radiant, healthy skin while addressing signs of damage. This method recognises the skin's natural renewal cycle, which typically takes about 28 days, and encourages practices that enhance this process for optimal healing and rejuvenation.
Instead of seeking-out quick fixes or temporary solutions, holistic skincare prioritises long-lasting skin health. This philosophy emphasises nourishing the skin from the inside out, incorporating various lifestyle practices in our everyday life.
How can I improve my skin health holistically?
Tune into your body and mind
Healing is a dialogue, so listen for clues. Our bodies whisper to us and are constantly giving us feedback. Be quiet enough to listen. Erratic moods, trauma, depression, constant exhaustion, irregular menstrual cycles, sudden rashes, excessive dryness, premature ageing, regular infections and poor healing, chronic pain and headaches are all signs your body and mind are calling for support. quieting the mind and all becomes evident.
Community and interconnectedness
How does the rising cost of living crisis, racism, living in a heteropatriarchal society, political chaos, war and genocide affect the skin? The effects of socio-economic turmoil on our overall health cannot be overlooked. Working towards raising awareness on world issues, speaking up for those who don’t have a voice and caring about the rights of all humans requires having a community of people around you that you can trust with strong relationships and support when needed. Creating safe spaces to rest and celebrate joy is resistance.
Become aware of your everyday environment
Being aware of environmental and geographical influences like humidity, UV exposure, blue light, air, water pollutants, unsound waste areas, home interiors, chemicals, and everyday exposure to allergens can manifest into sudden rashes, irritation, inflammation and fluid retention. Limiting exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) from devices is, debately, another potential source of disruption to us biologically.
Enrich your diet
Organic and diverse whole foods: Nourishing our skin may require adjustments to diet, including anti-inflammatory omega 3, antioxidant fruits, polyphenols in herbal teas, fibre-rich nuts, seeds, grains and green leaf vegetables that nourish the gut flora. Limiting sugar and insulin spikes can decrease the effect of glycation on the skin and improve overall health.
Manage stress and anxiety
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can exacerbate inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, significantly impairing skin health, leading to accelerated ageing. Finding some time to slow down and breathe. Meditation, Yoga, regular massage therapy and time in nature are all shown to improve mental health. Beome aware of what you say when nobody is listening, are your thoughts fearful, full of anger, criticism or even grief? Become aware of your internal dialogue through journaling.
Improve sleep
Adequate sleep and good sleep quality is essential for skin healing and repair. Sleep deprivation disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and impaired skin barrier function. Ensuring you spend time outdoors is also key for a good night’s sleep. Incorporating breathwork, massage, meditation and essential oils with visualisation can ensure restful sleep.
Intentional skincare rituals
Effacious skincare that’s targeted to your skin’s needs is essential. Anti-inflammatory skincare that’s clean and free from toxic additives that directly soothe and nourish the skin. We love Aegli Premium Organics for its clean and effective formulations with powerful botanical actives. Their nourishing and repairing face oils can directly work to restore barrier function.
By integrating these principles into your everyday life and working alongside your holistic skin therapist, you can create a personalised skincare regimen that not only addresses current skin issues but also promotes enduring vitality and resilience in your skin long-term.
Addressing these lifestyle factors is crucial for maintaining healthy, resilient skin. Holistic facial experiences at Naós Massage and Wellness Studio Kos can initiate your skin healing journey, by asking powerful questions that invite deeper reflection and curiosity. With facials encouraged every 2-4 weeks for optimal results, skin barrier impairment can be significantly improved alongside a personalised skincare ritual made to ensure your skin is consistently healing while outside the studio.
