Natural Medicine For Your Largest Organ

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Dr. Dawn Siglain is a Naturopathic 
Doctor, Licensed Acupuncturist, & Reiki 
Practitioner at Inner Source Health in Long Island and NYC. To learn more please visit www.innersourcehealth.com or call 631.421.1848 for a FREE 15 minute consultation.

    When it comes to skincare, I not only consider the ingredients I put on my body– I also take into consideration the fact that these ingredients are going into my body. Our skin is our largest organ and absorbs everything that graces its surface. I use only organic coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as my facial and body moisturizer. Opt for a glass jar packaging over plastic to avoid the toxic load and chemical leaching that occurs with plastics.   
    EVOO is unrefined, which means it contains the natural vitamins and minerals from the olives.  I promise that you will not smell like a salad! It’s light-weight and absorbs into your skin pretty quickly. Some companies are diluting olive oil with other low-quality oils; so make sure to research your options and get a good quality one.  Choose a brand bottled in dark glass, so that light does not turn the oil rancid. Heat also turns EVOO–store it in a cool and dry area away from direct sunlight. Oxygen exposure is another factor to consider with EVOO.  Purchase smaller bottles to limit oxidation and make sure to cap it tightly after each use.  EVOO starts turning once it’s opened and can go bad as quickly as one to three months after it has been opened.
    As for makeup, I reference (Environmental Working Group)  www.EWG.org for the latest up-to-date research on toxic load. You can search via product name or  by ingredient which makes it a very valuable resource! I make sure any makeup I use is EWG verified.  
    Don’t forget to use EWG verified sunscreen too. More importantly, eat your greens and make good food choices that are full of antioxidants to protect your cells. Be sure to wear eye protection all year round to keep the delicate skin around your eyes and eyelids safe from the UV rays. Lastly, drink half of your body weight (in ounces) of filtered water every day to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Stay tuned for my next article highlighting my favorite beauty tip!