‘Barbie Skin’ Gut Health Protocol
The secret to ‘Barbie skin’ may be a gut health protocol.
London facialist Jasmina Vico, whose clients include Jodie Comer and the Barbie cast, promotes an inside-out approach to skin health. The protocol uses the gut-skin axis, the connection between the gut microbiome and skin health.
Studies have revealed that a healthy balance of gut microbiota (good bacteria and other microbes) is important for good skin health and improving inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
The vagus nerve, responsible for regulating digestion, heart rate, and stress, acts as a link between the gut and the brain. By nurturing your gut, you can experience a sense of balance and calm as well as better overall well-being.
So, where do you start?
Margot took probiotics and anti-inflammatory supplements, Jasmina’s Vico Skin 3-6-9 Supplements trilogy.
Increase your intake of vitamin C, glutathione (a powerful antioxidant), kefir and gut-boosting foods. Margot herself is a fan of fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, as well as bitter foods and berries. The barbies also drank milk thistle tea which is full of antioxidants and supports liver health.
Meditation and breath work, such as the Wim Hof Method, help combat stress, further benefiting your skin’s health.
For Margot, Vico also used her Glow Laser, cold laser, LED therapy, lymphatic drainage massage, and micro-needling.
Remember that everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re dealing with persistent skin issues, consider seeking professional advice from a dermatologist.
To see a dermatologist more quickly on the NHS, there are a few steps you can take:
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Prioritise Communication: When talking to your GP, communicate your symptoms and their impact on your life clearly. If your condition is causing significant discomfort or distress, be sure to express this issue.
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Choose and Book: The NHS’s Choose and Book system allows you to choose the hospital or clinic where you would like to receive treatment, which can potentially reduce waiting times. Ask your GP if you can use this system for a dermatology appointment.
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Ask for Cancellations: Contact the dermatology clinic to see if they have a cancellation list. You might get an appointment sooner if someone else cancels.
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Use e-Referral: Some NHS services offer e-Referrals, which can expedite the process.
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111 Service: If your skin condition suddenly worsens or becomes painful, call the NHS 111 service. They can advise you on immediate steps and might expedite your dermatology appointment.
There’s no magic wand for ‘perfect skin’ but self-care and a healthy lifestyle can get you closer. Take care of your gut, manage stress, and watch your skin become the best version of itself.
As always, best wishes from myHSN!