Skincare is rapidly evolving; from achievable clinical results through the use of at-home devices to lab-synthesised topicals. The conversation isn’t just about the physical anymore however - it’s also about the mental. With mindfulness being spread far and wide in our work-focused culture, a rapidly growing field has emerged: Psychodermatology, blending psychology and dermatology.
What is Psychodermatology?
As the name suggests, Psychodermatology is the study of how emotional and mental wellbeing can impact your skin. Anxiety, stress and depression do not just manifest themselves with internal symptoms, they also take a considerable toll on your complexion. Accelerated aging, breakouts, psoriasis and eczema flare-ups are just a few of the reported effects.
How Stress Impacts The Skin
Managing stress is critical in our day to day lives, a whole host of health problems are associated with high stress levels. The stress response leads to production of cortisol. Prolonged raised levels of cortisol can lead to inflammation and chronic health problems. A few of the documented effects of raised cortisol levels on the skin are:
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Acne breakouts: Direct effect of increased oil production and inflammation
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Eczema and Psoriasis: Stress leads to worsening of these conditions
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Thinning skin: High cortisol leads to a breakdown of collagen
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Premature aging: Collagen breakdown is directly responsible for visible signs of aging
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Affected recovery: Raised cortisol levels significantly impacts wound healing, potentially through reducing collagen and hydration levels [1]
Emerging Psychodermatology Treatments
Holistic skincare might just be the future for the industry - tackling the root cause of the problem is more effective than managing the symptoms. Skincare in conjunction with said holistic approach is likely to boom in the coming years. Psychologists are already collaborating with dermatologists to offer tailored solutions to skin concerns, below are just a few.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Aids in managing stress, anxiety, and even compulsive behaviours such as picking.
Biofeedback Sessions: A form of self-regulation used to modify physiology through the connection of electrical pads to the body; improving overall health and wellness [2].
Mindfulness and Meditation: Clinically proven to lower stress and in turn cortisol levels, therefore having a direct positive impact on skin health.
Implementing Psychodermatology Into Your Skincare Routine
Professional intervention isn’t the only route you can take, managing your stress levels is achievable at home:
Sleep: Critical in managing inflammation, cortisol levels and recovery
Mindfulness: Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises to name a few. Mindfulness will not only help your complexion, but also your overall resilience to stressors
Evening rituals: Putting away the distractions associated with technology, and winding down with a calming skincare routine
The Future of Psychodermatology
As awareness grows, expect skincare brands to increasingly develop products and services integrating psychological wellness, such as stress-reducing skincare formulations and wellness-based skincare experiences.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the importance of the mind-skin connection empowers a holistic approach to skincare, leading to healthier, improved skin. The effects don't only stop there, overall wellbeing is also improved.
Psychodermatology is a meaningful shift in how we approach skincare, increased knowledge on the topic is likely to help millions worldwide with managing their conditions.
References
[1] Oxlund H, Fogdestam I, Viidik A. The influence of cortisol on wound healing of the skin and distant connective tissue response. Surg Gynecol Obstet. 1979 Jun;148(6):876-80. PMID: 451809.
[2] Frank DL, Khorshid L, Kiffer JF, Moravec CS, McKee MG. Biofeedback in medicine: who, when, why and how? Ment Health Fam Med. 2010 Jun;7(2):85-91. PMID: 22477926; PMCID: PMC2939454.