The Hidden Toxins Aging Your Brain & Skin With Rachel Varga, BScN, RN, CANS

In this Episode

06:59 – An overview of skin oxidation and aging

12:30 – Hidden toxins in personal care products

21:02 – Surgical vs. non-surgical approach to beauty

29:41 – How endocrine disruptors affect hormones and aging

40:27 – EMF exposure and its impact on skin and brain health

52:08 – The use of energy coherence technologies 

55:44 – The link between skincare and brain health

58:56 – Derma rolling and its effects on the skin

1:03:25 – The future of clean beauty and longevity science

1:06:36 – Top takeaways from today’s episode

Resources:

– Top Supplements for Alzheimer’s Guide 

– Oxidative Stress Status and Its Relationship to Skin Aging by Rachel Varga, BScN, RN, CANS 

Connect with Rachel Varga, BScN, RN, CANS:

– Website 

– Podcast 

– Email: [email protected] 

Connect with Dr. Josh Helman, MD:

– Instagram 

– Facebook 

– LinkedIn 

– TikTok 

– YouTube 

– Others 

Disclaimer: Please remember that this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.

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Are Hidden Toxins Speeding Up Your Aging?

Ever wondered why some people seem to age gracefully while others struggle with premature wrinkles, dull skin, and brain fog? The culprit might not be just genetics or lifestyle—it could be hidden toxins lurking in your skincare, haircare, and environment.

In this episode of Alzheimer’s Breakthrough with Dr. Josh Helman, MD, we sit down with Rachel Varga, an expert in aesthetic nursing and functional anti-aging strategies. Rachel shares how toxins impact our skin and brain health and what we can do to detox and protect ourselves naturally.

Let’s dive in.

Key Takeaways from Today’s Discussion:

• Your ‘Toxic Bucket’ Determines Your Health (08:06)
  Daily exposure to toxins adds up, and when your body can’t detox fast enough, it overflows, leading to inflammation and disease.

• Most ‘Clean’ Skincare Isn’t Actually Clean (13:22)
  Many products labeled as ‘natural’ still contain harmful parabens, phthalates, and endocrine disruptors.

• Water Quality Matters More Than You Think (33:19)
  Drinking and bathing in unfiltered water exposes you to heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and harmful chemicals.

• EMFs and Blue Light Are Silent Skin Agers (34:29)
  Constant exposure to artificial lighting and EMFs can accelerate aging, leading to collagen breakdown and oxidative stress.
• Non-Surgical Anti-Aging Techniques Work (01:00:52)
  Techniques like derma rolling, antioxidants, and biohacking can dramatically improve skin and brain health.

In-Depth Discussion

Understanding Toxic Overload

Every day, our bodies are bombarded with toxins from the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the products we use. Rachel explains this as the ‘toxic bucket’ theory—your body can handle toxins up to a certain point, but once it overflows, disease and premature aging start to appear.

Signs of a Full Toxic Bucket:

• Persistent skin redness or irritation
• Brain fog and cognitive decline
• Chronic fatigue and poor sleep
• Hormonal imbalances

Hidden Toxins in Personal Care Products

Think your skincare is safe? Think again. Many ‘natural’ and ‘clean’ products still contain harmful chemicals.

Ingredients to Avoid:

• Parabens & Phthalates – Known endocrine disruptors that mess with your hormones.
• Fragrances – Often a cover-up for hidden toxins.
• Sulfates & Silicones – Can strip your skin and scalp, leading to irritation.

Even expensive brands aren’t immune. Rachel advises checking for hidden reformulations every few months, as many brands quietly change their formulas.

Water: The Overlooked Toxin Source

Tap water isn’t as clean as you think. It often contains pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and chemicals that contribute to neurotoxicity and skin issues.

Best Water Filtration Methods:

1. Reverse Osmosis – Removes most contaminants, but remineralization is needed.
2. Whole-Home Filtration Systems – Ensures safe water for drinking and bathing.

• Shower Filters – Reduces chlorine and heavy metal exposure while bathing.

The EMF & Blue Light Threat

We spend more time in front of screens than ever, and it’s silently aging us. Blue light and electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) disrupt cellular function, causing oxidative stress.

How EMFs Impact Your Skin & Brain:

• Disrupts cellular energy production (mitochondria)
• Accelerates skin aging and collagen loss
• Increases brain inflammation and oxidative stress

Non-Surgical Strategies to Reverse Aging

Rachel emphasizes that you don’t need drastic procedures to maintain youthful skin and brain health. Instead, focus on holistic anti-aging techniques.

1. Derma Rolling for Skin Regeneration

Microneedling or derma rolling boosts collagen production by triggering controlled micro-injuries. But not all rollers are created equal.

What to Look For: ✔ Made from high-quality materials (no metal alloys) ✔ Paired with antioxidant-rich serums (free of preservatives) ✔ Used 2-5 times per week for best results

2. Antioxidants to Combat Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress from toxins is a major driver of aging. Support your skin and brain with powerful antioxidants.

Top Antioxidants for Skin & Brain Health:

• Vitamin C & E – Protects against environmental damage.
• Omega-3s – Supports brain function and reduces inflammation.
• Resveratrol & Glutathione – Helps detox heavy metals and pollutants.

3. Sleep in a ‘Faraday Cage’ for Recovery

Rachel shares that she sleeps wrapped in EMF-protective blankets made of silver-lined fabric. These create a Faraday cage effect, reducing EMF exposure while the body regenerates.

Other EMF Shielding Tips:

• Sleep in a room with the Wi-Fi router turned off
• Use an EMF-blocking phone case
• Wear EMF-protective clothing, especially while sleeping

Conclusion: Protect Yourself from Accelerated Aging

Toxins are everywhere, but with the right strategies, you can minimize exposure and support your body’s ability to heal. Here’s a quick recap:

• Your toxic bucket fills up daily—control what goes in.
• Skincare marketing is deceptive—learn to read ingredient lists.
• EMFs and blue light accelerate skin and brain aging—mitigate exposure.
• Filtered water is essential—avoid heavy metals and pharmaceuticals.
• Non-surgical anti-aging strategies work—derma rolling, antioxidants, and shielding from toxins can help you glow inside and out.

What’s Your Experience?

Have you noticed skin or brain health changes linked to toxins? Share your thoughts in the comments!

P.S. If you enjoyed this episode, check out our previous podcast on Alzheimer’s Breakthrough with Dr. Josh Helman, MD, and subscribe for more expert insights!