I Can't Think of a Title For This Post- So This Will Have To Do

I'll admit I'm not typically one to give away my beauty secrets, or any secret for that matter, but today I've decided to make an exception and let you all in on my most recent beauty discoveries.

As you all may know, I've battled issues with my skin for a while now, but recently I came to realize the only way to heal my skin once and for all was from the inside out. I was fed up with over the counter creams, topical acne treatments that contain harsh chemicals and acids, and other various "miracle" treatments that promised to restore my skin to a flawless state. These gimmicks felt like a band aid to the real problem- they may cover acne for a while, but they do not solve the problem long term. So I now find myself on a journey to better skin and body health and I wanted to share it with all of you.

To make it plain and simple- acne is caused by bacteria... when bacteria spreads, acne spreads. So what do I mean by "heal from the inside out"??

In order to heal the skin, you must first take care of your internal state of health. To put it simply- eat more fruits and veggies, consume less refined sugars, drink plenty of water (this one is especially important!), eliminate as much dairy as possible (dairy contains androgen hormones which can cause acne breakouts), and be sure to take probiotics everyday! Probiotics are the "good bacteria" our gut needs in order to fight off harmful bacteria and keep our intestines in a state of balance and optimal health. And while these steps to internal health are crucial in healing the skin, its important to understand that results may not be instant.

But while your healing the inside, here are a few natural ways to help the surface of the skin heal a bit faster....

1. Cleanse your face twice daily. Never scrub too hard as that can disturb the pores and cause an over production of oil. Try to cleanse with a gentle face wash that does NOT contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. As a rule of thumb, if your face wash contains ingredients you cannot pronounce, do not use it.


2. HONEY! Thats right, I said "honey". Raw organic honey is one of the best skin healers you could ever put on your face. Honey is a natural antimicrobial - meaning it naturally kills and inhibits the growth of bacteria. It also soften the skins and helps retain the moisture that is often sucked right out of our skin. Simply apply honey (must be RAW ORGANIC!) to your entire face after washing and let it sit for about 10 min before rinsing off. While it is safe enough to do twice daily, I usually apply it to my entire face in the morning and then spot treat with the honey in the evening. But beware- if you have acne the honey will draw out the impurities and make the blemishes come to a head extremely fast. But dont freak out... in 2-4 days the acne will be significantly reduced and you will begin to notice far less acne and more smooth clear skin. YAY!


3. Dont touch your face- period! Touching your face spreads bacteria. Its tempting, but resist the temptation.


4. Regularly clean everything that touches you face. This includes- pillow cases, towels, make-up brushes (must be cleaned with a mild soap and warm water after EVERY use!), and anything else that comes in contact with your face.
   

I hope these tips were helpful. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to health and I have a strong desire to encourage anyone out there who struggles with their body, skin, or self image. I understand how hard it is because I've been there! Satan knows the best way to take me down is to attack my self image- and I must admit he does an excellent job. I continually try to remind myself that I am made in God's image and my body- the only one I'll ever get - is a temple unto the Lord. I will never attain perfection, but I can let go of that need simply by knowing that God loves me and cherishes me just as I am.

Click HERE to hear a song I held dear to me during my recovery and one I still listen to on my hard days.

(The song will play automatically when you go to the site, and the lyrics are written out for you to follow along and enjoy)