Not only does your skin cover your entire body, but it is considered the body’s largest organ. It is made up of two separate layers—an outer, thin layer called the epidermis and an inner, thicker layer called the dermis.

But this vital organ is not just for appearance—look at how important it is to your overall health…

• Protection—It provides a physical barrier to protect you from infection, injury, heat and cold, harmful chemicals, ultraviolet radiation and dehydration.
• Chemical and heat regulation—Your skin has many immune functions and pH balancers. Plus, it has a system of sweat glands, blood vessels and tiny muscles surrounding hair follicles, which control your body temperature.
• Elimination—Your skin releases toxic chemicals through sweat, body odor and acne.
• Physical sensation—It allows you to experience the world through touch, pain, heat and cold… to have physical connection, such as hugging a loved one… and to show what you’re feeling through blushing, sweating or turning pale.
• Calcium absorption—When it’s exposed to sunlight, your skin produces vitamin D… allowing you to absorb calcium through your intestinal tract for strong bones and teeth.

And how can you keep your skin healthy and looking young?

Be careful what you put on your skin—toxins or chemicals absorb into your deeper tissues. Any toxins that reach your bloodstream have to be detoxified by your liver, and if it can’t remove them, the toxins are stored in your organ fat before leaving through your skin… but not before they’ve possibly caused you harm.

It’s also important to maintain healthy removal of wastes and toxins throughout your entire body. Do this by eating whole foods… eating fiber for regular bowel movements… drinking enough water for your kidneys… and exercising to remove acids through your lungs.

Another way to keep your skin young and healthy is with vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Many natural substances can help reverse the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles… help your skin retain moisture… help your skin stay soft… and rebuild your skin structure.

Focus on eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)—which belongs to the group of omega-3 fatty acids—vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamins B6 and B12, selenium, copper and zinc. Remember that the best source of these vitamins and minerals is from foods and whole food extracts—so eat plenty of raw vegetables and fruits daily and take supplements as needed.

Finally, you can reduce stress. This will boost your immunity and allow your skin to heal. Your skin often shows clear signs of how you’re doing both mentally and emotionally.

And you thought skin was only for looks! But as you can see, it’s critical for your overall health. So give your biggest organ a break—take good care of it and it will take good care of you. And the person that your skin shows… will be a younger-looking, healthier you!