Summer self-care: 5 tips to glow naturally this season

Now that summer’s here, we’re spending more time in the sunshine, socialising, and embracing a season of movement and connection. We get it – you want to feel good in your skin and within yourself! But that doesn’t mean loading up on harsh chemicals or taking in toxins to get there.

1. Glowing from within ✨

Start your day with your daily dose of kefir. Rich in probiotics and beneficial bacteria, it supports gut and skin health.

Add in skin-loving nutrients to help nourish from within –

Omega-3 fatty acids (found in flaxseeds and oily fish like salmon) – help reduce inflammation¹ and maintain healthy skin.
Polyphenols found in berries and green tea help fight against free radical damage, which can cause premature ageing.²
Vitamin E found in avocados and almonds, helps repair skin.
Vitamin A found in sweet potatoes carrots and spinach helps with healthy skin cell turnover.

Collagen is another ingredient in the natural glow toolkit! Sadly, collagen production begins declining as you age, starting in your mid to late 20s and becoming more visible over time. Adding a high-quality collagen supplement to your daily routine can help maintain firmness and elasticity.

Check out our famous Gut Health Protocol to fully heal your gut and your skin!

2. Support your body’s natural detox pathways 🌿

Bitter greens like dandelion and rocket stimulate bile production, helping your liver process toxins.
Your gut is an elimination highway so ensuring you get plenty of fibre will help to keep things moving.
Sip herbal teas that contain nettle, dandelion leaf or parsley will gently support kidney function.

3. Hydration is key 💧

Sometimes dry and dull skin can be thirsty skin!

Enjoy water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber and tomatoes.³
Combine with healthy fats like olive oil, nuts or seeds to help lock in moisture.
Add in electrolytes, try a pinch of quality sea salt and a squeeze of lemon.
Aim for 6-8 glasses of water daily, and reduce dehydrating drinks like alcohol, coffee and salty snacks.

4. Natural skin care essentials 🪻

Gentle and nourishing skincare helps to protect your natural barrier, especially in summer.

To avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils, use gentle soaps and cleansers and avoid sulphates and harsh chemicals.
Exfoliate and hydrate with homemade face masks that are free from nasties, see here for some ideas.
Keep skin well nourished and moisturised.
Use a mineral based SPF, look for zinc oxide and avoid ones with silicones and synthetic fragrances.
Seek shade when necessary. Gradual sun exposure over time will help to avoid burning from sitting in the sun too long all at once.
Care for your skin after sun exposure with natural cooling ingredients like aloe vera, and goats milk lotion or even a kefir compress.

5. Stress-less skin 🧘‍♀️

Stress hormones can really affect your skin. Hormones like cortisol can break down collagen and contribute to fine lines and wrinkles. It can also increase oil production, leading to skin breakouts, and exacerbate existing skin conditions.

Create daily practices that help to boost your mood and soothe your nervous system, like getting some morning sun and taking some deep belly breaths.
Endorphins are natural stress busters so ensure you’re moving your body daily!
Practice self care activities that help you feel relaxed this could be reading, taking a walk in nature or anything that brings you a sense of peace.
Introduce a nightly skin ritual. Use your favourite natural products and massage your skin – not only will you be taking care of your skin, but this self-touch will help to regulate your nervous system.

This summer you can choose to radiate from within, with probiotic support, mindful movement, natural nourishment. By choosing to be kind to yourself and others, you can glow from the inside out!

For our go-to smoothie for glowy skin, see here, and for the only skincare item you need this summer, see here.

Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat, weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm.