Skincare as Self-Care: Navigating Stress and Skin Health
- Genelle Holub
- Jan 9
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 6
Part 2: Stress is a frequent visitor in our busy lives, often making us feel overwhelmed. Have you ever noticed how your skin reacts when you’re feeling anxious or down? The bond between mood, skincare, and the rapidly growing fields of Neurocosmetics and Psychodermatology is deeper than you might think. In Part 1 of this blog series, I shared how stress can lead to sudden skin issues and how a new field like Psychodermatology can help, while touching on the importance of how the skin, mind, and stomach are connected. In Part 2, let’s explore how these factors connect with skincare as self-care and discover practical ways to care for your skin and your mental wellness as a whole, even during tough times.
Understanding Neurocosmetics
Neurocosmetics is an exciting field that studies how skincare products can impact your nervous system and brain. This innovative area combines what you use on your skin with neuroscience to create skincare items that not only beautify but also enhance your overall well-being.
By using specific ingredients, neurocosmetics can promote positive emotional responses. For example, the scent of lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety, while citrus extracts can boost your energy levels. A study indicated that 46% of participants felt more relaxed when using products with calming scents. These ingredients serve as more than just natural fragrances; they can uplift your mood while also treating your skin using active organics.
The Link Between Stress and Skin Conditions
Stress can show up on your skin as various issues, particularly acne, eczema, and psoriasis as discussed in Part 1 of this blog series. Under stress, your body produces higher levels of cortisol. This spike can lead to excess oil production or skin inflammation. Research suggests that over 70% of people experience skin flare-ups during stressful periods, creating a cycle that's hard to break. Think of shingles.
Addressing the connection between your mental state and your skin’s health highlights the importance of stress management. Establishing a regular calming skincare routine can alleviate some of these negative effects. For instance, using products with chamomile or aloe vera can not only soothe your skin but also promote relaxation.
Enter Psychodermatology
Psychodermatology examines how our mental and emotional health impacts our skin's condition. This field recognizes the role that anxiety and stress play in triggering skin issues. Therefore, it is essential to adopt an integrated approach to skincare.
Professionals in this field often combine dermatological and psychological treatments, advocating for a holistic perspective. It involves using medication, effective skincare, and emotional support. I firmly believe that establishing a relationship with an experienced esthetician in this field and adding monthly or seasonal facials sets you up for success in your well-being and skin goals. For example, someone struggling with persistent acne linked to anxiety may benefit from therapy alongside topical treatments with an esthetician. This comprehensive strategy helps address both the mind and the skin, leading to better results.
Creating a Calming Skincare Ritual
Implementing a calming skincare routine can enhance your skin health and lighten your mood. Consider the following steps to create your own soothing ritual:
Set the Atmosphere: Light candles or use a diffuser with calming essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus to establish a peaceful environment.
Mindful Application: Spend time applying your products and don't rush through. Close the door and pay attention to the feel of the textures and the scents, focusing on nourishing your skin, not just treating problems, and soak in the moment.
Choose the Right Products: Select ingredients known for their calming effects, such as chamomile, green tea, or rose. Research has shown that rose oil can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and is a great addition to your skincare line-up. Using a neurocosmetical line of products is beneficial as they are usually more high-end and extremely effective. This is one of the many reasons I partnered our products with "feel so good" ingredients like our Refreshing Retinol Cream. It gives us a good feeling but serves a purpose to improve skin texture. Vanilla gets our blood circulating with the retinol, and lemon makes the product more acidic so it absorbs deeper into the skin besides smelling like cupcake or sugar cookie.
Consistency is Key: Develop a routine that complements your lifestyle, whether it is in the morning or evening. If you've consulted with me then you know I often talk about finding what works for you! Sure, you may have great products, but too many can overwhelm you or having "not the right" products can be frustrating. Consistency not only helps you manage stress but also creates a sense of normalcy in your day.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider
Beyond skincare products, your lifestyle choices also heavily influence your mood and skin health. Regular exercise is crucial; studies show that physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers, improving both mood and skin. It can be anything from walking outside to attending a group exercise class. Both uplift your spirits.
Did you know we need time in nature to get "rooted"? It means to spend time outdoors in natural environments to feel a deep connection and stability, like a plant firmly anchored by its roots. This offers us a sense of grounding and belonging within the world around us. Essentially, it's about finding peace and mental clarity through immersion in nature. Just 20 minutes a day walking around on grass or in the sand at the ocean with bare feet can do the trick!
As a Nutritional Certified Esthetician, I emphasize that eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants is another simple yet effective strategy. Consuming foods like blueberries, dark chocolate, and spinach can enhance your skin's ability to combat stress. A study found that individuals who included more than two servings of fruits and vegetables daily reported better skin health while also feeling better physically.
Lastly, do not underestimate the importance of quality sleep. Sleep allows for skin repair and rejuvenation, making it vital for your overall health.
Stress Management Techniques
Incorporating strategies for stress management can significantly enhance your mood and skin health. Here are a few effective techniques:
Meditation and Mindfulness: Spending just a few minutes each day meditating can help you regain control over stress and promote a sense of peace. Or just take time alone with tea and a new book or favorite show. This means no electronics (phone) and can be done easily by practicing getting "rooted," mentioned above or establishing a tranquil place in your home.
Deep Breathing Exercises: Engage in deep breathing to calm your mind. Research shows that just five deep breaths can quickly reduce feelings of anxiety.
Social Connections: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family. Social interactions can boost your feelings of well-being, which benefits both your mind and skin.
Journaling: Keeping a journal can help you process thoughts and emotions, reducing anxiety and providing clarity.
Finding Balance Between Mental and Skin Health
Recognizing the interplay between stress and skin health is crucial. The fields of Neurocosmetics and Psychodermatology illustrate how intricate this relationship is. An integrated approach not only benefits your skin but also fosters emotional wellness. Remember, your mind controls everything and develops together with the skin from the moment of conception. They are forever linked!
Nurturing yourself through calming skincare routines and balanced lifestyle choices, along with effective stress management techniques, can create comprehensive support for your well-being. Your skincare journey is as much about nurturing your mind as it is about caring for your skin.
Thank you again for reading my blog. If you are interested in a treatment or in scheduling a consultation but can't do so in person, you can do so virtually or on the phone by clicking the links.
Be happy, hydrated & calm,
Genelle Holub
Pro Makeup Artist
Certified Nutritional Esthetician
Face It Skin Founder
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