When it comes to skincare goals, everybody envisions the ‘natural-glow’, the effortless glowing complexion that healthy skin entails. But what is ‘healthy skin’ and how is it achieved and maintained?
Real skin has imperfections, it’s important to aim for healthy skin, not perfect skin. But what defines ‘healthy skin’? Healthy skin is a mirror of a healthy body, and while perfect skin does not always equal a smooth, blemish-free complexion, any skin type or texture that is well-nourished and hydrated can be defined as healthy skin. Anyone can achieve glowing skin by understanding how our skin functions, and what it needs to function properly.
SKIN STRUCTURE- HOW ARE NUTRIENTS ABSORBED?
The skin can absorb nutrients and skincare products through intracellular pathways, which refer to small spaces between the skin’s cells. The skin’s cells are divided into three layers:
- The epidermis: Allows for nutrients to pass from cell to cell through permeation. This layer protects against environmental elements including Ultra Violet radiation, bacteria and free radicals. The epidermis is responsible for cell turnover and allows oil and dirt to be deposited out of the body through pores.
- The dermis: contains connective tissues that lie underneath the epidermis layer and houses the body’s hair follicles. Blood vessels located in the dermis supply fresh oxygen and nutrients to the blood.
- The subcutaneous tissue: layer of skin where fat is deposited and stored, the blood vessels in the subcutaneous layer are larger than those in the dermis and connect to the rest of your body. This delivers nutrients to and from the skin and body.
WHAT DOES HEALTHY SKIN REQUIRE?
Understanding how our skin functions is the key to knowing exactly what it needs to become healthy, nourished and hydrated. But what exactly does our skin need to stay healthy?
1. HYDRATION
The skin requires hydration in order to rejuvenate. Hydrating the skin from the inside out delivers much needed nutrients and water to the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis) and ensures toxins, oils and free radicals are removed from the skin’s surface. This prevents clogged pores and minimises the frequency of unwanted breakouts…So drink up!
Applying moisturiser ensures hydration is locked within the skin. This will prevent dry patches from forming; and maintain a natural glow that is associated with healthy, hydrated skin…Consistency is key!
2. VITAMINS AND NUTRIENTS
Vitamins are organic compounds that have beneficial properties, each vitamin plays a key role in maintaining the body’s health and well-being, including the skin! The skin needs vitamins to assist in cell turnover and maintain collagen production, without proper nutrition, the skin can develop dry patches and irritated areas.
Click here to see our in-depth breakdown of each vitamin, and which vitamins are best for healthy, glowing skin!
Nutrients are essential compounds that the body and skin need to survive and rejuvenate. Zinc is an essential mineral that promotes optimal skin health, as it is crucial to the transportation of Vitamin A and the maintenance of enzymatic activity. Other nutrients, including essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are fundamental to the maintenance of healthy skin - because they act as the building blocks of healthy cell membranes; and assist in the production of the skin's natural oil barrier, which is critical in keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
3. CONSISTENCY
Healthy skin is not an overnight process, glowing skin is a result of proper, consistent skin care! Being consistent with your skincare routine and products will always provide radiant results. However, everyone’s skin is different and some products that work for most may not work for some. Finding products that work for your skin and not against it - is the secret to maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion.
“HEALTHY SKIN STARTS FROM WITHIN”
Our skin is a reflection of our overall health and wellness, and it is not one to lie. Ensuring your body is healthy on the inside is the key to maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion on the outside. Click here to shop our wide range of organic donkey milk skincare products. Curated in Greece for all skin types, imbued with essential vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants to ensure your skin remains happy and healthy.