Skin care

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. On the average person, it covers an area of around 2 m2 (22 ft2) and weighs approximately 2.75 kg (6 lb). Its main function is to protect the body against extreme temperatures, as well as damage caused by the sun and chemicals. It forms an impermeable, insulating layer that preserves hydration and produces vitamin D, and is endowed with multiple neuroreceptors that make us "sensitive" to our surroundings. Every 6 cm2 (1 in2) of skin contains a thousand nerve endings and 19 million cells.

Maintaining healthy skin is of paramount importance, and only a holistic approach to skin care will enable us to achieve skin that radiates from within. This organ is our link with the outside world and bears witness to our lives. The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) wants your skin to be a testament to your health and well-being.

CHFA's top five tips for naturally radiant skin

• 1. Vitamins that nourish the skin - make sure you get enough vitamins C, A and D.
  2. Try tea to keep your skin beautifully supple.
  3. Choose natural oilssuch as coconut, sea buckthorn and argan oil, as well as omega-3 to preserve moisture and repair damaged skin.
  4. Check labels - look for certifications that match your moral values, including organic, vegan, animal cruelty-free and gluten-free.
  5. Accept the passage of time - nourish your body according to its changing needs as you age.

Read on for CHFA's essential tips for naturally healthy skin; they cover everything from using natural health products, to the benefits of tea for the skin, to choosing good oils that won't break the bank, to the expanding sector of ethical and certified products. You'll find practical advice for all age groups, as well as simple, natural and inexpensive do-it-yourself recipes for caring for your skin.