Smoother Skin This Summer !

by Samantha Johnson

Are you feeling tired and sluggish? Loss of focus? Spring is a perfect time for an internal cleanse to rid your body of winter heaviness and toxins.

But did you know that your skin is your largest organ of elimination? Experts report that a detox — from the outside of the body — is just as important.

Exfoliating (taking away the oldest skin cells that cling to the skin’s outermost surface) promotes renewal of skin cells and opening of pores for maximum detoxification, and what is even better is that you don’t even have to leave your house to look for these cleansing items.

Many of us can’t even imagine starting our day without our cup of coffee, but did you know that coffee is way to exfoliate? This little bean packs quite a punch on cellulite, too.

Here’s how it works: Coffee grounds are full of antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals that damage the cells that can cause skin damage and appearance of cellulite. Because caffeine is a diuretic, it actually draws fluid from the interspaces between the skin cells to smooth and refine this condition. According to Dr. Jessica Wu, a dermatologist from Los Angeles, “exfoliating with caffeinated coffee grounds actually burns fat just under the skin, which diminishes cellulite.”

Another study out of Rutgers University in 2002 showed that applying coffee lotion to the skin of mice inhibited the growth of cancer tumors after they had been exposed to high levels of ultraviolet radiation.

Who would have thought that this kitchen cupboard beverage could provide so many benefits?

Indulge in this regimen twice a week to experience what all the “buzz” is about coffee exfoliating. Remember, exfoliants can be messy, so perform in the shower.

For the body:

One-fourth cup used coffee grounds (we like Green Mountain Coffee Roasters)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix together and apply to skin in circular motion. Rinse with warm water.

For the face:

One-fourth cup used coffee grounds

1 egg yolk

Combine well and apply liberally to the face. Massage gently, then allow to dry. Rinse off with warm water.

Following these simple, cost-effective steps will surely give you smoother skin this summer.

Samantha Johnson, director of the spa at Stoweflake Mountain Resort in Stowe, writes a monthly Healthy Living column. She is a nationally certified massage therapist and Yoga Alliance instructor.

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