Our skin is the largest organ in our bodies. It plays an essential role in protecting us, regulating body temperature, storing water and fat, and helping to create vitamin D when we’re in the sun. But did you know that there are 3,000 skin conditions known to dermatologists that affect millions of people around the world? The most common of these issues include acne, dry or itchy skin and hyperpigmentation, or dark patches. Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) is produced, affecting millions of individuals of all skin types and tones.
Skin problems and self-confidence, anxiety, stress, + depression
Skin issues can cause discomfort, leading to frustration, even in the most confident of women. Today’s societal pressures, heightened with social media, have given us the ability to present an idealized version of ourselves online. Coupled with skin conditions, unrealistic expectations can cause anxiety, depression, self-consciousness and low self-esteem for many, especially those who may feel their own imperfect skin is the exception rather than the rule.
If you have visible skin problems, you might find yourself hesitant to attend social events or avoid them altogether, becoming withdrawn, frustrated or feeling uncomfortable in your own skin. But regularly practicing self-care, including taking care of your skin, can help!
From getting active to regularly practicing loving skin care with products made from clean ingredients, there are ways to boost your mental and physical health, allowing you to feel bright, fresh, smooth and more assured.
Let’s look further into how self-care can help enhance your mindset, manage stress and improve overall mental health, especially when facing skin challenges.
6 Self-care steps that can help you look and feel confident in your skin
Self-care, or self-love, is taking active steps to preserve or improve your overall health, including mental health. Self-love can help manage stress, boost energy, and lower chances of getting sick. And the smallest acts as part of a daily routine can have a significant impact on well-being as you navigate skin challenges.
Self-care is as unique as you are. And when you’re facing anxiety or self-confidence issues related to skin issues, the following steps can help you feel more confident, letting your true light shine!
1. Physical activity
Physical activity is simply moving your body while increasing energy expenditure. One of the best ways to improve your overall health is to get active. Benefits include reduced anxiety, depression and other health risks. And best of all, exercise can improve your skin! From biking, running, taking the stairs, raking the leaves to walking or strength training, just 30 minutes of movement each day can elevate your mood. And small amounts of activity can add up! So keep moving! Just make sure you’re taking care of your skin in the process. Some activities may exacerbate your symptoms, so listen to your body.
2. Meditative baths
Meditation is a practice that promotes an elevated state of awareness and centered attention. It’s an impactful stress reliever and, when practiced regularly, can reduce your risk for stress and promote inner peace. A meditative bath simply combines meditation with the benefits of a hot, relaxing bath. Imagine being able to momentarily escape from your external pressures, all within a calming atmosphere. It’s time to dive into tub-filled bliss. If you suffer from skin conditions that include itchy, red or dry skin, consider adding oatmeal to your bath for extra soothing skincare. If you have sensitive skin, steer clear of products with synthetic fragrances or essential oils added to your bath.
3. Journaling about the experience
Journaling allows you to explore the thoughts and feelings surrounding what you’re experiencing with skin challenges. When practiced consistently, especially when you’re focused on processing emotions, you can evoke mindfulness, regulate emotions, improve confidence, help to manage personal adversity and boost your mood. Ask yourself, “What am I thinking about?” Or, “How do I feel?” Even if it’s just a few lines, it’s good practice to take time to reflect on what you wrote, allowing you to process different experiences, feelings, and challenges.
4. Affirmations and practicing gratitude
Affirmations are positive declarations that can help you overcome challenges, adversity, and negative thoughts surrounding skin problems. Gratitude is an appreciation for something, either tangible or intangible. Thinking about things you're grateful for on a daily basis can help bring in positivity, develop stronger relationships, and improve your health. In turn, affirmations strengthen your confidence, manage negative feelings, and enhance your self-esteem. You can even couple these practices together with journaling, making for an empowering self-love step!
5. Staying connected
We are wired for connections, and the relationships we develop are essential to our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Healthy relationships can decrease stress, give you a greater sense of purpose, and even lead to a longer life. Feeling connected with your support network can boost confidence and provide a different perspective when dealing with skin issues. Just a quick text or phone call can make all the difference! If you don’t have a supportive network, you can connect through community events or join a local group online.
6. Invest in high-quality skincare products
Regularly taking care of your skin can provide a host of both mental and physical health benefits. Using quality skincare products as part of your daily routine can improve feelings of self-worth and trigger mood-boosting chemicals. You can even combine your routine with meditation to step away from stressors, pause, focus on yourself, and hit the reset button. Of course, it’s essential to choose a gentle skincare line made with clean ingredients that effectively and naturally brighten your skin, making you feel fresh, smooth, and healthy.
Skin problems can affect your self-esteem and outlook on life. And because these challenges are more common than you may think, more treatments are being developed all the time. So if you’re struggling with itchy skin, acne or dark patches, and it's impacting your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help. And by regularly practicing self-care along with utilizing gentle, effective and one-of-a-kind skincare products created with you in mind, like our Forgotten Skincare Line, you can get back to feeling bold and confident!
You are beautiful inside and out. But we understand the discouragement that comes when our bodies change in different ways. So we are here to help you feel less anxious, more assured and support you in being your most vibrant self every day!
Resources
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=85&contentid=p01336
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm
https://www.verywellmind.com/relieve-stress-with-a-bath-meditation-3144781
