A change in season can affect the health of our mind, body and especially our skin. Winter often brings extreme dryness, and with summer comes sun damage. Even excessive heat or air conditioning can affect the health of our skin.

In a previous post we discussed why protecting this external organ from UV rays is so important, but what about caring for damaged or already sunburned skin? Of course diet plays a large role (try eating these 3 foods), but there are things that can be done topically to heal, soothe and nourish our body's largest organ.

Heal sunburned skin

We are all familiar with aloe vera gel for sunburns, but did you know that typical drugstore options are far from pure and natural? Many contain added colours and fragrances. Yes, that’s right - aloe vera gel is not actually green! Here at Kardish we like Lily of the Desert First Aid Gelly because it is made from certified organic aloe vera and contains no parabens. Studies have shown that aloe vera can reduce healing time by up to six days when compared to using vaseline gauze.
 

Heal damaged skin

Whether you are dealing with damaged skin from years of tanning, simple irritation or general skin sensitivity, it’s important to treat our skin with care. Using a gentle exfoliant like the Andalou Konjac Facial Sponge is a great place to start. Simply soak the sponge in water, add optional cleanser and massage over the face and neck. When it comes to moisturizing damaged skin, sea buckthorn oil, when used topically has been shown to rejuvenate the skin and heal wounds.

Heal scarred skin

Feeling self-conscious about showing skin because of scarring or skin discolouration? Derma e Scar Gel combines an array of botanical extracts to help soften, smooth, and diminish the appearance of scars.  While there have been no scientific studies to prove this method works, some people have also seen success using a small amount of coconut oil.

Just avoid the damage  

Everyone wants the perfect tan this summer, but it can come at a cost. Tanning beds have been shown to increase our risk for skin cancer, drugstore self tanners can be filled with harsh ingredients and too long spent in the sun without pertection can be hazardous. Try EcoTan's sunless, organic, vegan self tanner! It's a brand new product for Kardish* and it's made with organic ingredients like aloe vera, avocado and rose geranium. 

*Only sold at Blossom Park, Orleans, Barrhaven, and Kanata.

The skin is often a mirror that reflects what is happening inside our bodies. Support the health of your skin through proper hydration, consuming nutrient dense foods and taking part in regular exercise. Remember that caring for your skin must happen throughout your lifetime, as it can take years for damage to fully appear. Avoid tanning beds, tanning oils and harsh beauty products. Bask in the natural glow of health and happiness!

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Tell us how you sooth, nourish and heal your skin everyday. The Kardish team always reads replies to our articles on Facebook, Twitter, and the comments section below.