llThe Skin – Our Largest Organ of Elimination
By Dr. Ellen Tart Jensen
Did you know your skin is not just a protective barrier—it’s actually our largest organ of elimination and a powerful part of your body’s natural detoxification system?
The average adult’s skin weighs about six pounds and covers two square yards. Yet most people forget that it’s a vital organ of elimination, responsible for helping your body rid itself of harmful toxins every day.
The Skin as a Detox Channel
The skin is often referred to as the “third kidney“ because of its crucial role in eliminating uric acid and other waste. In fact, your skin is designed to eliminate about two pounds of toxins each day—alongside the lungs, kidneys, and bowels. If any one of these elimination channels is compromised, the others have to work harder.
When your skin isn’t eliminating properly, toxins build up. This can lead to body odor, gout, congestion, and even skin eruptions. Healthy skin is elastic, breathable, and self-regulating—but only when we support it with the right habits, foods, and care.
Less Cellulite
Impoved Skin Texture
Lymphatic Improvement
Skin Problems: Root Causes and Natural Solutions
I recently worked with a young man whose body was covered in a severe fungal infection—his feet, back, and hands were raw, and his fingernails were falling off. He had grown up on a diet of fast food and soda, and his body simply couldn’t keep up.
We focused on detoxifying his system through nutrition and supplements—and the results were incredible. He began drinking green drinks, eating vegetables, and supplementing with:
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Vitamin A, Silicon, and Zinc (to rebuild skin)
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Colloidal Silver (to address fungal overgrowth)
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Flaxseed & Olive Oil (to nourish and hydrate the skin)
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Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (to strengthen connective tissue and improve circulation)
His skin began to regenerate. His nails started growing in again. The bright red scales faded.
Food is medicine. Dark leafy greens, raw nuts and seeds, and pure oils can nourish the skin from the inside out.
Pro Tip: Never brush over cuts, rashes, or infections. Be gentle and start slowly—especially with children.
Daily Habits to Support Healthy Skin
Beautiful skin doesn’t stop at good nutrition. Here are some daily habits that make a big difference:
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Get fresh air and regular exercise to boost circulation.
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Wear natural fibers—synthetics can suffocate the skin.
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Avoid chemical-laden products. Choose soaps, lotions, and deodorants made with natural ingredients—especially aluminum-free deodorants.
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Skin brushing is one of the most powerful and inexpensive ways to improve skin health.
How to Skin Dry Brush the Right Way
Start with dry skin and a natural bristle brush with a long handle. Always brush toward the heart to support lymph flow.
Begin at the soles of your feet, brushing up in long, firm strokes.
- Move up the legs, over the buttocks, and up the torso.
- Brush your arms, hands, and back using upward motions.
- Gently brush the abdomen in a circular motion.
- Use a softer brush for the face, brushing upwards to prevent sagging and support collagen production.
Top Benefits of Dry Brushing
Helps prevent wrinkles
Promotes clearer thinking and memory
Improves digestion and elimination
Boosts immunity and lymph drainage
Prevents fungus, warts, and moles
Enhances oxygen flow and skin glow
Stimulates natural oil production
Clears acne and congested skin
Encourages better eyesight by improving circulation to the eyes
Start Today—Glow from the Inside Out
Your skin is not just a shell—it’s a living, breathing organ doing the hard work of detox every day. By eating clean, moving your body, using natural products, and brushing your skin, you’re supporting your body in one of the simplest yet most powerful ways.
Make it a family affair—teach your kids to dry brush and eat healthy early on. You’ll be amazed how these small changes can transform not just your skin, but your energy and overall health.
Here’s to your vibrant, radiant skin!
Yours in good health,
Dr. Ellen Tart Jensen, PhD, DSc, CCII-3, Iridologist, Naturopath