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What is a Detox Cleanser?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

A detox cleanser is any product that purports to help remove toxins from the body. Cleansers of this type may be used to remove impurities from the surface of the skin, or to aid the intestines in eliminating toxins as part of their natural function. The efficacy of these types of cleansers is supported by a great deal of anecdotal evidence, but is sometimes dismissed by the medical community in general.

When most people think of a detox cleanser, the first thing that comes to mind is something that is taken internally. There are a number of herb-based cleansers designed to move collected impurities out of the colon and intestines. Proponents of colon cleanser products generally claim that as a result of using cleansers from time to time, less stress is placed on the immune system and the individual will enjoy a higher standard of health.

Detox cleansers may include herbal ingredients.
Detox cleansers may include herbal ingredients.

With internal cleansers, such as a colon cleanse, the individual normally consumes powders or capsules that contain some sort of natural element capable of expanding when introduced to fluid. Ground psyllium husks are a popular option. The idea is that as the product makes its way through the intestines and colon, the powder takes on fluids and expands enough to completely fill the space. As the expanded mass continues to move through the system, it scrapes the walls of the intestines and colon clean, allowing the impurities to be eliminated from the body through the natural process of defecation.

Some natural detox cleansers might be used to treat acne.
Some natural detox cleansers might be used to treat acne.

Some detox cleanser products include other herbs as a way of providing much needed nourishment to the body. Proponents claim that the infusion of extra nutrients makes it possible for the cleanser to not only rid the body of impurities, but to feed the body at the same time. This means that the detox cleanser actually services a dual purpose, in that essential vitamins and minerals are added back to the body even while toxins are removed from the system.

A colon detox cleanser helps remove toxins and other built-up waste from the colon.
A colon detox cleanser helps remove toxins and other built-up waste from the colon.

There are also detox cleanser products that are in the form of topical ointments and creams. With this application, the idea is often to help reduce the impurities that have built up in the different layers of the skin. Purportedly, applying these creams makes it easier for the skin to retain a healthy glow, remain elastic, and to recover from wounds more quickly. Some of these types of detox products are claimed to be essential when it comes to slowing the aging process.

A skin detox cleanser is also thought by some to help with various types of skin conditions. Natural facial cleanser products may aid in removing oils and dirt that block pores and promote the development of acne. Along with functioning as an acne cleanser, these same products are sometimes touted to help with conditions such as eczema. Many of them claim to use a mixture of herbs and other ingredients to restore a natural balance to the skin.

While there are a number of people that find these products extremely helpful, some medical professionals do not believe that detox cleaner products are necessarily helpful, and in fact may lead to dependency. Traditional physicians tend to promote including a healthy amount of fiber in the body in order to aid in proper elimination of waste from the body. However, practitioners of alternative medicine are much more open to the use of internal and external cleansing product to promote better health.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • Detox cleansers may include herbal ingredients.
      By: picsfive
      Detox cleansers may include herbal ingredients.
    • Some natural detox cleansers might be used to treat acne.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Some natural detox cleansers might be used to treat acne.
    • A colon detox cleanser helps remove toxins and other built-up waste from the colon.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      A colon detox cleanser helps remove toxins and other built-up waste from the colon.