After a sun-filled summer enjoying outdoor activities, many people may be noticing some signs of accelerated aging or hyperpigmentation on their skin – especially the face and neck. Taking care of yourself with a daily skin care routine is not only beneficial for the appearance of skin, regular pampering is a form of self-care and can help relieve stress, and decrease anxiety.
Just watching the nightly news can lead to anxious feelings, and although a healthy diet, regular exercise, journaling or meditation support good physical and mental health, a little skin care can also provide a distraction and a greater sense of well-being. According to a recent Everyday Health report, our skin is the largest organ of the body, and can often reflect internal health.
Paying attention to how our skin, hair and nails appear can give people, and their healthcare provider, a window into how well the body overall is functioning. The ritual of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing our skin in the evening can be a calming part of a winding-down routine that quiets a busy mind and prepares the body for a restful and restorative sleep. Being present in the moment, sometimes referred to as mindfulness, has been found to help halt negative thought patterns and ease feelings of depression or anxiety.
The tactile sensation of cleansing and applying a serum, mask or lotion to the skin feels luxurious and can help promote positive feelings while improving the skin’s appearance. Gentle exfoliation can diminish fine lines and wrinkles, help improve skin texture and lighten dark spots. Much the way taking a bath or shower can help people relax after a stressful day, regular skincare routines also help calm our stress response and lower inflammation-causing high cortisol levels.
Creating a spa night at home with loved ones is also a great bonding experience. Too often we crash on the sofa with some contraband food or beverages to unwind after a busy day or stressful week. Making time for your own care with products that smell and feel good on the skin can help restore a sense of balance while helping to improve the appearance of the skin and boost self-esteem. No need to spend a lot of money either, your pantry probably already contains ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa, granulated sugar, honey, or green tea that make excellent DIY skin treatments.
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