The skin is a diagnostic tool. Have you heard this before? Skin is a map to guide us to better understand the inner-workings of our bodies. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda have used it for this purpose for millennia. Like in iridology and reflexology, the body systems are wholly represented in the face. Through the skin we are able to see systemic heat, digestive, hormonal and nervous system imbalances. A smattering of blemishes along the jaw can indicate hormonal disharmony, or a cluster between the brows can indicate an overworked liver. If we utilize this wonderful, ancient tool we can actually look at this communication from our skin as a gift, as it can allow us this incredible insight into deeper, systemic imbalances, and give us an opportunity to cut them off at the pass. But the skin is not just a mirror of our inner world — it’s also a mirror of our outer world. Skin is a reflection of the earth’s soil. Soil, the skin of the Earth. Both skin and soil have three layers and a protective top layer. Each is home to a rich microbiome, and each exchanges nutrients and gasses with the outside world. Beyond the striking similarities of structure and function, we see an even deep reflection in that modern skin care treatments reflect the practices of modern agriculture. Current commonly accepted agricultural practices take little consideration of the long-term health of the soil. Mono-cropping, pesticides, and overworking of fields leaves the soil stripped of its nutrients and life force. In a similar manner, overuse of invasive skin care treatments, harsh exfoliants, and prescription medications leave the skin overworked, stripped, and sterilized. Let's bring back radical simplicity to the land and our skin. Let’s realign with the rhythms of nature.