It’s no secret that wellness is big business. The now $5.6 trillion dollar industry is ever-evolving, with a new buzzword, trend, treatment, practice, or product entering the cultural sphere daily, often then exiting faster than you can say ‘Goop’. But, in this dynamic space, there are some developments that are truly worthy of your time, attention, and investment. One such practice that has proven its staying power is Psychodermatology (aka the mind-skin connection). Here, we explore its efficacy, uncovering how to improve our skin, and mind, in tandem.
Addressing the interaction between mind and skin, psychodermatology connects the two in a (somewhat complex) interplay between neuroendocrine and immune systems, with a focus on the nervous system, skin, and immunity. Dermatologists have long-stressed the need for a holistic approach when it comes to treating a host of skin conditions (from eczema to psoriasis, acne, and more — as well as premature signs of aging), but only now, after proving its undeniable efficacy, is heed being paid to mind/body health.
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When you consider the myriad ways in which how we feel manifests itself physically — from anxiety-induced bloating to blushing when embarrassed and sweating when we’re nervous, the practice of psychodermatology (which seeks to treat skin concerns via a combined mental and physical health perspective) is incredibly logical. Particularly when we think of how the implications of stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest into more severe, long-term, skin-specific health conditions. This practice encourages the implementation of evidence-backed, positive lifestyle changes that can have both visible and non-visible effects, treating the body and mind to heal and clear our skin — and support our psyche in the process.
After seeing the results of this holistic approach first-hand, simply by implementing some more mindful practices into our daily routines (while we await the arrival of Psychodermatologists on our shores), we’re already huge proponents. Here, we round up a few ways to easily blend this new science into your everyday routine.
01. MIND OVER MATTER
The rise of the slow beauty movement saw not only an increased emphasis on evaluating the impact of beauty products (on not only our skin, but the planet, too), but the introduction of the principles of slow living into beauty and skincare routines. Psychodermatology takes this one step further, encouraging weaving the likes of meditation, journalling and mindful relaxation into daily life (inside or outside of your beauty and skincare routine) to cultivate calm.
02. A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
It’s no secret that breathwork has risen through the ranks in the wellness space, so potent is its impact. Mastering the art of breath can unlock both physical and mental health on an unprecedented scale, so it’s little wonder that its impact extends to the health of our skin, too. Implement a simple breathwork practice, such as box breathing, to feel (and see) the benefits.
03. REFINED RITUAL
Beyond weaving mindfulness practices into your skincare and beauty routines, go one step further and create a calm-inducing nighttime ritual. Incorporate gua sha, facial massage and oils to nourish the mind (while simultaneously improving the condition of our skin). It’s also amazing what taking time to wind down after a busy day will do for your beauty sleep.
04. GET MOVING
Exercising — even moderately, is guaranteed to help with overall wellbeing, but it also improves the function of the skin and improves our mental health. Getting your heart rate up and moving your body is always a great way of combating both skin and psychological stressors. Incorporate yoga into your workout routine, and you’ll tick the meditation box, too.
05. GOOD MOOD FOOD
Recently there has been growing research into the direct impact that positive nutrition can have on your mental health, with a number of foods that are great for an instant mood booster (as well as being excellent for overall health, and the health of your skin — win, win, and win). Fatty fish is one such powerhouse, alongside good quality dark chocolate, fermented foods such as kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, plus banana, nuts, seeds, oats and, perhaps best of all — coffee. In moderation, of course. It’s amazing what an impactful change being more mindful and considered with your diet can make to your overall health.
06. SCIENCE-BACKED STEPS
Beauty brands are tapping into the psychodermatology trend with a more scientific approach, developing products with ingredients that harness the benefits of nature’s most potent stress relievers, which have been found to help treat stress-related skin conditions by lowering cortisol levels in the skin. Watch this space, as we predict that in no time at all these products will dominate the beauty sphere.
