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08/30/2007: "Skin: The Largest Organ"

Over 10% of body elimination occurs through the skin. It is often considered the third kidney. I have never spent much time worrying about my skin. I suppose I should have during my many years of life guarding and competitive swimming. As I read more about health and taking care of the body, I see more and more about the importance of our skin as an organ that takes in nutrients and toxins. Chlorine and other chemicals in our bath and pool water is an issue to be considered. Deodorants and cosmetics introduce toxins into the body via our skin.

One of the side-effects of the chemotherapy drug that I am on is a red burning pain on the bottom of my feet and the palms of my hands. This has been mild until just recently. As a support, my doctor prescribed an ointment called Biafine. Biafine is a wound dressing used to treat minor cuts, burns, skin ulcers, skin grafts or donor sites. It hasn’t been a big help but I continue to apply it to my feet and hands hoping that it will bring me some relief.

Emollients

My doctor has a patient that prefers to use Shea Nut Butter on the hands and feet. It is used for treating: fading scars, eczema, burns, rashes, acne, severely dry skin, blemishes, dark spots, skin discolorations, chapped lips, stretchmarks, and wrinkles. Like many emolients made from plants, there are two types, Certified Organic Unrefined and the Refined version. In this case the latter has been bleached and refined with chemicals such as hexane and bleached thus lacking many nutrients and phytochemicals.

Salt Baths

Taking a salt bath can also help to draw toxins through the skin. When magnesium sulfate (epsom salt) is absorbed through the skin in a bath, it pulls toxins from the body, reduces swelling and relaxes muscles. Also Dead Sea Mineral Bath Salts are natural and contain essential minerals. They too draw out toxins, stimulate circulation, and relax aching muscles and joints.

Skin Brushing

Here is yet another way to eliminate toxins, stimulate the lymph system, remove dead skin cells and encourage cell regeneration. Dry skin brushing is gaining popularity. Get yourself a soft natural bristle brush or loofa from a health food store or pharmacy. In the morning before your shower start brushing at your feet and work upwards, brushing the legs, then buttocks, then on to the chest and stomach, arms and finally the face – always brushing towards the heart. Skin cleansing and detox are essential for eliminating pesticides and other drugs and environmental chemicals.