Most department store cosmetic products, especially the more expensive ones, are full of chemicals. It seems odd that paying more does not guarantee quality in this area.There are many products and each has its own marketing hype, but if the goal is healthy skin, our criteria must change from “natural” to “organic”.

The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it is just like a sponge, absorbing everything we apply to it. Because of the capillary action of the blood vessels, foreign substances and chemicals can be absorbed right into the bloodstream. This toxic absorption can create all types of problems and allergies and force the body’s organs and internal purification system to work harder. The slow, day-to-day intake of topically applied substances can eventually create long-term health issues.

Beware of the word natural, because all product lines have a few natural ingredients mixed with the synthetics, alcohol, perfumes and chemicals. Naturalshould mean healthier, but that is the province of organic. 

There are really very few secrets to having wonderfully young, moist skin. The first is a healthy, wholesome diet of grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and clean water to drink. Secondly, try to do yoga or some exercise regime to keep the oxygen and blood flow to the skin. In addition, supplement diet with regenerative herbs, vitamins or minerals.

Aveda’s cosmetic products are high-quality, grown organically and formulated from the essences of plants and flowers to be antifungal and antibacterial. They make our skin younger-looking because they are healing, firming, toning and protect the skin. Just smelling those luscious aromas is always a treat.

It is so very important to have clean, fresh skin daily. The skin needs to breathe. Many women get in the habit of not washing their skin before they go to bed for one reason or another, and this is not acceptable in a healthy skin regime. Washing the skin with an organic cleanser is important both morning and evening, and it only takes a few minutes to do a complete skin care program. If we just make that part of our daily disciplines, the difference will be astonishing. The key ingredients are a healthy, organic skin care system that works harmoniously to heal, firm, tone and most importantly, moisturize the skin. 

Elaine Dodson is a Dallas-based Beauty and Wellness Consultant. For more information, call visit ElaineDodson.net and AyurvedicCookingClasses.com.