The 5:2 Skin Detox

You'll probably have heard of the 5:2 diet. You know, the one where you eat what you like (within reason) for five days of the week and fast for the remaining two? Although many people swear by it, following strict calorie controlled diets just isn't for me. However, I've noticed lately that this diet trend is now working its way into the world of skin with what people are dubbing the 5:2 skin detox.

Don't worry, this detox doesn't involve juice fasts or bland meal plans. It simply involves forgoing your beloved make up for two days a week to give the skin a chance to breathe. This isn't a swipe of concealer and hint of mascara day, it's an actual no make up 'I woke up like this' day.

What does this mean for our skin?

The theory behind it is that two days a week without a layer of make up allows the skin to increase its natural cellular turnover, stimulating repair and rejuvenation for a healthy, glowing complexion. It's also thought that a break from potentially irritating and pore-clogging products reduces redness, inflammation and breakouts.

Does it work?

In the name of research, I gave the 5:2 skin detox a go. I chose to go for a weekend where I didn't have much planned; I'm not quite brave enough to go au naturel in my regular day-to-day life just yet! At the start of the two days, my skin was in relatively good condition. My breakout-prone skin was clear, my excess oil levels seemed to be under control and everything was running smoothly. Of course, I kept my skin regime exactly as usual.To be honest with you, at the end of the two days I didn't feel like it made a whole load of difference to my skin. In fact, the day after my 'detox' I woke up to the mother of all spots on my cheek, who has later followed by a friend. Now, I'm not blaming the no make up days for this eruption, as monthly hormone changes tend to play havoc with my skin, but if the claims were to be believed then surely my fresh, breathing skin wouldn't have broken out? For me, I think that wearing the right make up and properly cleansing the skin makes much more of a difference than ditching the slap for two days a week. Those bare faced days won't rid the skin of an accumulation of congestion from the rest of the week. Opting for mineral, non-comedogenic formulas will provide a good level of coverage without clogging the pores or suffocating the skin. Whether I'm wearing natural daytime make up or full evening glam, I always double cleanse at the end of the day, no exceptions. I like to make sure that all traces have been thoroughly washed away to leave my skin clean and clear.No harm can come of going make up free and I must admit it is quite a nice feeling once in a while, but I can't say it's something I'll be taking up.

Written for you by: Ellie, Face the Future