Detox Kitchen Skin Food Plan Review: 'My skin is glowing'

Healthy meal delivery services are having a moment. In fact there seems to be a new one every day. But Detox Kitchen's new plan has proved it's a cut above the rest by promising to improve your diet and enhance your skin all in one.

The Skin Food plan states you can 'eat your way to healthy skin in just 10 days' with a selection of low-carb, skin-boosting meals, juices and snacks. But for £42 a day (£420 for the whole programme), is it worth it?

Read on to find out what happened when WH Fashion Director Saskia Quirke gave it a run for its money.

What is the Detox Kitchen?

A healthy food café chain and delivery service with a mission to pack every dish with as much flavour and nutrients as possible. Meals are 80% plant-based and use 100% whole foods - from broccoli, berries to coconut yogurt and oat milk. Everything is free from wheat, dairy, chemicals and refined sugar. Basically, it's a bit like if Deliveroo went on a massive health kick, but better.

What does the Skin Food Plan do?

The Detox Kitchen Skin Food plan promises a serious packed lunch upgrade with 1500kcal’s worth of delicious and nutritionally balanced food for the day, specially geared to give you a glowing complexion. Its USP? It’s the hassle free way to have a health kick and genuinely enjoy eating well.

... And what's the science behind it?

Research increasingly indicates that improving your diet can ease certain skin conditions (think acne, aging skin, psoriasis, rosacea). Some studies suggest eliminating certain 'triggers' and food groups may be helpful for some conditions (speak to your doctor first) but the overriding message is that a diet that emphasises the consumption of whole foods is beneficial. As someone who's prone to eczema around my eyes, I was keen to put this to the test.

Anything else worth knowing?

The brand is partnering with skincare supremos Pai and Content Beauty for this latest plan.

These companies focus on natural based products and health, which makes them two (organic) peas in a pod. Plus the inside/outside focus means you're helping your body from within thanks to diet and on the surface level, with optimum skincare.

Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser + Cloth

£34 at paiskincare.com

Famed for its focus on beauty using tip top natural ingredients, Pai’s best-selling Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser is delivered with your first meal. Oh and I didn't mention the best bit, you can enjoy a 45-minute facial at Content Beauty (London, W1) as part of the package.

The Natural Lift Facial Massage uses Ayurveda massage, acupressure and facial reflexology to stimulate oxygenation of the skin, helping to brighten complexion and improve tone the natural way. Dreamy.

Find out more

S Mcleod

The review: 3 days in

Positives

The meals are delicious and I definitely have more energy. The food is surprisingly substantial, and I feel like I’m eating loads with snacks, nuts and dessert provided as well as three meals. The ease and time saved on meal prep is fantastic. Instead of schlepping to do the weekly Sunday food shop I head to yoga instead.

Negatives

After avoiding caffeine for three days I have headaches and I’ve developed an addiction to white bean mash (uh huh, shock result). But seriously, the food is amazing, but the cost is quite eye popping so I’m making the most of every bite (the side effect is I think I’ve finally nailed mindful eating!)

Ten days in

Aside from one or two spots that I’m convinced are detox related, my skin is glowing and the eczema I suffer from around my eyes has eased. One unexpected advantage; seeing meals pre-packaged up has readjusted my expectations of portion size to a healthier level. I feel lighter and brighter.

The WH verdict: is it worth it?

Well, I’ve already used the 10 per cent off your next order voucher (keep your eyes peeled for this with your first food delivery). Results = repeat business. It is an expensive luxury, but if you lack will power (or like me, have none) and you’re trying to transition to a healthier diet then this is an easy win.