Unlike a condition like hypertension or diabetes, for example, there is no hiding a skin condition. Our skin is the first thing people see when we meet them. So, it makes sense that these types of conditions can have an effect on us mentally.
But while the causes of these conditions can cast a wide net, how does our psychology fit in? This is a newer field of research called psychodermatology and though funding and studies are limited, there have been some interesting results.
Keep reading to learn more about how your psychology can affect your skin.
Like wondering if the chicken or the egg came first, researchers have wondered if skin conditions can cause psychological issues or vice versa.
Of course, there are people who have skin conditions who are fully and completely mentally sound, while there are people with perfect skin who are struggling. That being said, having a skin problem can trigger intense distress.
In a 2014 National Rosacea Society survey of 1,675 patients with rosacea – a condition that causes facial redness and related symptoms – 90% of respondents reported lowered self-esteem and self-confidence, 54% reported anxiety and helplessness, and 43% reported depression. More than half said that they frequently avoid face-to-face contact.
The problem is that these types of psychological problems can exacerbate skin problems. Common issues that have been shown to be made worse by stress include acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, pain, and hives.
But if these psychological stressors were only the result of skin conditions, then would treating the psychological conditions have an effect on the skin?
Though having skin issues can impact many things such as self-esteem and confidence, focusing on mental well-being can actually have a positive effect on the skin.
Researchers state that the key is to give patients a sense of control over their conditions and help them find better ways to react to them. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy can help patients manage stress and stop mentally over-exaggerating the severity and consequences of their skin condition.
Other forms of therapies which have proven to be effective on the skin include:
So not only are these practices helping patients’ state of minds, but also their skin. For example, in one study patients who listened to a mindfulness meditation program while undergoing phototherapy treatment for psoriasis needed 40% less exposure to ultraviolet light than others.
Even minor stress can have a negative impact on the skin, making you more prone to breakouts. If you have a skin condition, any amount of stress can exacerbate it. This, in turn, can cause you more stress, only worsening the condition more.
It may be difficult to do, but if you feel you may be stuck in this cycle, it’s important to take control and look for practices that can help you relax and have a better outlook on your skin.
Researchers say that even just imaging and meditation can help. Focusing on an image associated with the desired change – such as skin that’s warmer, cooler, moister, or less itchy – can be one way to mentally refocus. If you believe in mind over matter, this can be a fun and potentially productive exercise.
If you want to plan a full attack, then these types of mental exercises PLUS compounds that can help bolster your skin’s health can really give you an advantage.
When you’re ready to take control of your skin’s health, Complete Collagen Plus will be there to support you. Give your body what it needs to build strong, elastic, and healthy skin once again.