When was the last time you really thought about your skin? Sure, you might notice the occasional blemish or worry about wrinkles. But your skin is far more important, and amazing than we often give it credit for. Naturopath Mel joined Doug to chat about skin, how to care for it, and why your skin deserves more love than you think!
Your Skin: More Than Meets the Eye
“The skin is the largest organ in the body,” Mel explained. “Yet, we don’t often think of it as an organ.” Most people list organs like the heart, lungs, or kidneys. But skin plays just as crucial a role. It protects you, keeps everything together, and helps regulate body temperature. It also contains nerves, produces vitamin D and retains moisture. imply put, your skin is your body’s frontline defence.
How Aging Affects Skin
Many of us notice changes in our skin as we get older. It’s common to see skin become thinner, almost paper-like, especially around delicate areas like the eyes.
“As we age, our collagen levels decline naturally,” Mel shared. Collagen is key for keeping skin elastic and smooth. That’s why supplements like collagen powder, zinc, and vitamin C are popular. They support healthy collagen production.
But there’s no magic fix. Hydration and sun protection remain essential. “A bit of sun is fine,” Mel added. “But too much, especially on your face, nose, ears, and hands will accelerate aging.”
Signs Your Skin Might Need Help
Your skin is often a window into your overall health. Some warning signs include:
- Dryness and cracking
- Premature aging
- Acne, eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis
- Sensitivity and allergic reactions
“If your skin is dry, you need hydration and good oils,” Mel advised. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, help keep skin healthy and resilient. Underlying health issues like hormonal imbalances, high stress, or insulin spikes can also show up through skin problems.
Gut Health and Skin Health: The Surprising Connection
When asked how to truly care for skin, especially when dealing with conditions like acne or eczema, Mel pointed to one key factor: gut health. “Our gut is the foundation,” she explained. “That’s where nutrients are absorbed, and it’s where our immune system lies.”
You might’ve heard terms like “leaky gut.” This refers to when the gut lining isn’t working properly, limiting nutrient absorption and impacting overall health including your skin.
For eczema and similar conditions, they recommend checking for food intolerances (like dairy) and supporting gut health gradually. No extreme diets just small, sustainable changes.
Choosing the Right Products
Not all skincare products are created equal. Many shampoos, soaps, and lotions contain harsh chemicals like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), which strip the skin’s natural oils. “We want good hygiene, but without unnecessary toxins,” Mel stressed.
Gentle, natural products like rosehip oil and manuka oil are great options. They’re soothing, healing, and less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Even essential oils, though natural, should be used cautiously, especially on broken or sensitive skin.
Treat Your Skin Well
Your skin works hard to protect you every single day. It deserves thoughtful care in return. Hydrate. Protect it from the sun. Feed it the nutrients it needs. And when issues arise, consider looking deeper because healthy skin often starts from the inside out.
Listen to the full conversation below.