I am so excited to offer a skin series over the next few weeks on the blog and hope that you can follow along. Nourishing your skin from the inside out and outside in is so important, and nutrition plays a huge role. Skin health (like I have mentioned before) is a huge passion of mine! Our skin has a big job in protecting our body every single day, and considering that our skin is the largest organ of our entire system it is crucial we nourish and protect it always. Over the next several weeks I will be sharing some fun whole food recipe ideas that can help target skin health along with one of my favorite skin care lines I can’t wait to share… all safe and non-toxic!
Let’s start with a little skin 101 background! According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, human skin acts as a barrier between the internal and external environments protecting the body from mechanical damage, noxious substances, invasion of microorganisms, and radiation. There are three main layers to the skin that make up this entire organ. The first layer is the Epidermis, which is the top main layer. Its main job is to make new skin cells, give skin color, and PROTECT! The second layer is the Dermis. This layer helps us feel things, makes sweat, grows hair, makes oil, and helps bring blood to our skin. The third layer is the Subcutaneous fat, which stores fat, helps control body temperature, connects the dermis layer to muscles and bones, and helps blood vessels and nerve cells. Yhew……I mean this organ is just awesome isn’t it?!
The link between skin health and nutrition continues as a common study for many, but what we do know is that our nutritional state and what we eat matters to our skin. Eating a balanced, healthy diet in general is the first step to good skin health – but there are certain key nutrients that our skin loves! Some of the specific foods that our skin craves are packed full of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E, selenium), zinc, and omega 3 fatty acids.
To kick off this fun skin nourishing series and in honor of Valentine’s Day, here is a fun recipe that you can whip up in minutes all from foods found in your kitchen! Introducing the Chocolate-Strawberry skin whip! This topical skin food provides a powerful punch of rich antioxidants from 100% natural Cacao powder and fresh strawberries, along with honey for antibacterial properties and greek yogurt for moisturizing the skin. I like to apply this fun skin whip on my face, neck, and hands! The best part is that it is totally edible and naturally delicious! Have fun with this even though it may feel a little silly, I promise it will leave your skin feeling so refreshed and smooth!
Chocolate -Strawberry Skin Whip
¼ cup plain greek yogurt
¼ cup 100% raw organic cacao powder (Navitas naturals brand)
3-4 fresh strawberries (organic optional)
1 tbsp. Local honey
Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth and well blended, I used my Nutribullet for this recipe. Layer and apply with a small brush to the skin such as the face, neck, and hands. Let this sit on the skin until it starts to feel dry and tightened on the skin, approx. 10-15 minutes. Rinse with fresh water and pat skin gently to dry. Enjoy your refreshed and glowing skin just in time for date night….Oh and your skin will smell luscious!!
Enjoy!
