The Beauty of Dirty Skin: The Surprising Science of Looking Good and Feeling Radiant from the Inside Out by Whitney Bowe, MD
I only accept books to review on subjects that interest me. I said yes to receiving an early copy of this book because I pride myself in taking care of my skin and I was interested in what Dr. Bowe had to say about skincare and nutrition. While I did receive the book for free all thoughts posted here belong to me and have not been influenced.
About The Beauty of Dirty Skin:
Every year, nearly 80 million Americans will consult their doctors about their skin. In fact, skin disorders beat out anxiety, depression, back pain, and diabetes as the number one reason Americans see their doctors. Unfortunately, however, the vast majority will receive only a surface-level treatment, leaving the underlying conditions at the root of their skin issues unresolved. Skin doesn’t lie; it reflects overall health in unimaginable ways.
In The Beauty of Dirty Skin, internationally renowned dermatologist and scientist Dr. Whitney Bowe shows readers that skin health is much more than skin deep. As a pioneering researcher on the cutting edge of the gut-brain-skin axis, she explains how the spectrum of skin disorders — from stubborn acne and rosacea to psoriasis, eczema, and premature wrinkling — are manifestations of irregularities rooted in the gut. Lasers, scalpels, creams, and prescription pads alone will not guarantee the consistently healthy, glowing skin we all seek. Instead, Dr. Bowe focuses on the microbiome — where trillions of microbes “speak” to your skin via the brain — and highlights the connection between sleep, stress, diet, gastrointestinal health, and the health of your skin.
With simple explanations of the science, do-it-yourself practical skincare strategies, and a life-changing 21-day program, The Beauty of Dirty Skin is your roadmap to great skin from the inside out and the outside in.
Take a Look:
My Thoughts:
First I have to say that I am a firm believer that nutrition is the key to many, if not all, the ailments that occur today. My family and I just returned from a trip to Iceland and I kept commenting on the beauty of people’s skin. I’m sure that their diet as well as climate have a huge roll in this beauty. Honestly, this book gives an immense scientific background to the connection between food and skin. It was a little lost on me. I didn’t need to be sold as I am a believer. Although, some of the information did give me moments of, “yes, yes, I knew it!” I think this book is an important read to anyone that is suffering from skin conditions and considering medication. While I do believe that medication is helpful and sometimes necessary long-term dietary tools can help in treatment. I notice with my sons as they enter the teen/tween years. Our food choices and supplements (I give them a probiotic daily) have an effect on their skin. This book offers helpful dietary tips, a 3 week program, plus recipes for at home masks for different skin conditions. Still not buying it? The notes in the back of this book offer research study after study if you are interested in further delving into the topic. If you are interested in eating right and not over- cleansing your skin, but having fantastic results this is the book for you. Dr. Bowe has the science to back it up.
Dr. Whitney Bowe is Medical Director of Integrative Dermatology, Aesthetics & Wellness at Advanced Dermatology, P.C., in addition to being a distinguished research scientist and a thought leader in her field. She is one of the most in-demand dermatologists in America and has lent her expertise to programs like Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, The Doctors, and Dr. Oz. She and her work have been featured in publications including the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, Allure, InStyle, Vogue,
I also believe nutrition plays a key role in our overall health. This book sounds like it is an interesting read, I’ll have to check it out.
I work for a dermatologist and I know a lot of your skin’s conditions can reflect your diet. It does make a difference!
I agree Americans diet are really awful compared to other countries. I believe a good diet and water are jey.
Diet is definitely crucial to having healthy beautiful skin. That’s why I try to eat as clean as possible.
Super interesting! I’d love to read this. As one studying medicine, there’s not a doubt that nutrition directly effects the health of ALL tissues, including skin. As you mentioned, you can definitely notice a difference as well when you travel to other countries (that aren’t filled with fast food at every corner).
I agree a good nutrition can go a long way with many things!