How a Mindful Skin Care Routine Can Improve Mental Well-being

A mindful skin care routine is something you do daily, preferably in the morning and evening, that helps reduce stress, encourages self-care, builds self-worth, improves social bonding, and is a lot of fun. Not only will it keep your skin healthy and protected, but it will also do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being.

Your sense of worth is strengthened by a mindful skin care routine.

Your self-worth may be low if you have a mental health disorder like anxiety or depression, and you might not practice self-care because you don’t believe you deserve it.

If this is you, you need to know that you are valued and loved. Self-care doesn’t have to involve doing something crazy like visiting a spa resort on the beach. While those things are luxurious, realistic self-care should be small things that are part of your regular life. Even little things like washing and moisturizing your face can be incredibly calming and give your day structure.

Doing these little things will help you feel productive and secure even on days when you wake up wanting to do nothing. Don’t undervalue the power of skincare to boost your sense of worth. It may seem insignificant in comparison to other facets of life but it can make a big difference. Don’t take for granted the little victories you score every day; instead, celebrate them.

A conscious skin care routine can strengthen social bonds.

You will feel more at ease in social situations if you love and take care of your skin. People will notice your glowing smile and skin because they will be drawn to it.

When your partner notices how well you’re taking care of your skin, you might even experience a change in your relationship. Your friends will enjoy spending time with you because of your positive energy, and they’ll also be curious about your secret. When you take care of your skin, you have more confidence in social settings because you are prioritizing a healthy way of living and caring for yourself.

An enjoyable skin care routine is possible.

It is often said that people should switch up their exercise regimen for a sense of renewal and refreshment. Skincare can be the same way.

Although it’s crucial to maintain consistency in the way skincare products are applied, you can still make some changes. For instance, wearing a facemask at home occasionally can be fun and feel luxurious. It gives you the impression that you’re at a spa, but you’re actually relaxing in your own home which can often feel more comfortable.

Making your skincare routine enjoyable is one of the best ways to maintain it. Trying new products, visiting your dermatologist for a chemical peel, or having a spa/massage day at home will all lift your spirits and increase your brain’s happy hormones.

Here’s the evidence to back it up.

A new study has been published by Tatcha that investigates the connection between good mental health and healthy skin. In its 2022 Tatcha Study on Skincare Self-Care report, the high-end skincare company that takes its inspiration from Japanese culture conducted research on the skin-mind connection.

The purpose of the study is to provide evidence that using skin care products as part of an intentional ritual can help reduce stress, thereby improving skin health and overall wellness.

A questionnaire was sent out to 1,065 customers of the business that is owned by Unilever to inquire about their levels of stress, their self-care routines, and the part that skincare plays in their lives. 74% of respondents reported having the awareness that there is a connection between their mental state and the appearance of their skin.

More than two-thirds of people (69%) reported feeling burnt out or being in a state of physical and emotional exhaustion as a result of stress within the past twelve months. 70% of people noticed negative changes in their skin during this period. These changes included a rise in skin irritation as well as increased signs of aging.

One in two people also reported feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life and a sense that they are falling short. The company stated that when people are under chronic stress, they can get caught in a disruptive feedback loop in which their brain fails to recognize that there is sufficient cortisol in the system.

Even though 84% of respondents desired more time for self-connection, 47% of respondents viewed their skincare routine as just another task in their day. Additionally, one in four cited their physical appearance as a primary source of stress in their lives.

According to the statement made by the company, “Through our research, we have concluded that societal pressures are affecting wellbeing in two different ways. First, there is the emotional stress that comes along with having ‘problem skin,’ and second, there are the drastic measures that one may be driven to as a result, which often perpetuate the cycle.” (Tatcha)

This points to an opportunity to transform skincare from a mundane routine into a mindful ritual that contributes to improved well-being through the cultivation of connection, intention, and attention.

Three out of every four respondents admitted to having mental lapses lasting at least an hour and a half each day. In addition, more than half of people report having no more than thirty minutes or less per week to devote to mindful activities.

On the other hand, three out of every four people do have a skincare routine that they follow for at least fifteen minutes once or twice a day. According to the report, this is “an opportunity for well-being that is hiding in plain sight.” (Tatcha)

According to the company, the most important thing is to combine “mindful rituals and multifunctional formulas that care for skin…[This is done] with the understanding that the brain and skin are connected in a bidirectional pathway.” (Tatcha)

“Skin care is necessary to keep your complexion looking healthy, but it doesn’t have to be a daily chore,” the brand added. “When we use that time to quiet our minds and reconnect with ourselves, we reclaim it from being a task to a moment for rest so that we can recharge our batteries,” she said. “When we use that time to quiet our minds and reconnect with ourselves, we reclaim that time.” (Tatcha)

According to the findings of the study, holistic solutions that take into account both the mind and the skin, such as meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness practices, should be considered. In June of 2023, the company will introduce in the United Kingdom a new body care line called Forest Awakening Body, which is meant to shift moods, alleviate stress, and bring more peace and calm to your mind.

“For so long, the industry has only been concerned about what is on the surface,” stated Rose Sparacio, Vice President of R&D at Tatcha. “But we know that you have to consider the whole person in order to get to the root of these skin concerns.”

Conclusion.

For you to maintain a sound mind and positive body image, you can go beyond being comfortable in your skin and take good care of it. The skin is the largest organ of your body. Taking good care of it will improve your overall health and well-being both mentally and physically.

If you need additional help with ways you can be mindful to improve your mental well-being a counselor can help. Please contact us and we can connect you with a professional to help you reach your wellness goals.