Taking care of your skin properly can have many beneficial effects, not only on your physical health but also on your mental well-being. From reducing stress to improving confidence, taking the time for self-care can make a huge difference in how you feel about yourself.
Here are some of the ways that skin care routines can benefit your mental health:
1. Stress relief
Spending some time each day or week caring for your skin is a great way to relax and unwind after a long week or day. Many people have discovered that caring for their skin is an effective way to relieve stress and avoid burnout. In fact, a study showed that following a skincare routine can decrease the stress hormone cortisol levels by 83% and improve the participants’ confidence by 76%.
2. Gives a sense of control
For those suffering with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, following a routine gives them a sense of control and purpose. Many people with mental health issues feel more secure and stable when they stick to a routine or daily habit. A simple skincare routine could just do the trick. Doing a skincare routine is a great way to keep your mind active and gives others a reason to get out of bed, keep their minds busy, and relieve anxiety.
3. A form of meditation
For many people, doing a skincare routine becomes a relaxing form of meditation. The simple act of following beauty routines can be a mindfulness exercise, where you can close your eyes and be more aware of yourself. Dr. Sanam Hafeez, the founder of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, explained how skincare helps you connect with yourself “on a deeper level.”
“On a deeper level, it makes you feel like you’re honoring yourself aesthetically, by taking time out for yourself. Those few minutes, if spent going through steps in a rhythmic, calm, and purposeful manner, can almost be meditative,” she explained.
4. Boosts your happy hormone
Keeping your skin happy may make you happy as well. Putting in the effort to do a skincare routine can give you an instant serotonin boost. Experts say that when you finish your skincare routine and feel good about yourself, you will feel happy. A study found that the anticipation of something good, such as having good skin and looking good has a positive effect on your mental outlook. Furthermore, seeing and experiencing the effects of having a youthful and glowing skin boosts your confidence and self-esteem.
Taking care of your skin may seem like a minor thing to do, but it actually has a profound impact on your overall health. Taking the time to nurture your skin also means nurturing yourself. Remember, skincare is self-care! Also, take the time to enjoy beneficial herbs that promote good skin and health. Good luck!
