As an esthetician, I’ve seen it time and time again: clients walk into my treatment room, stressed, anxious, and feeling utterly drained. But after a good ol’ fashioned facial session, they leave looking and feeling like a brand new person! It’s not just the extractions or the masks – it’s the sense of self-care that comes with taking care of their skin.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Skin care is just about looking good, right?” Wrong. As I’ve come to realize, skin care is so much more than just a vanity project. Loving yourself, believing in your worth, and prioritizing mental health—these are all connected.
Skincare and self-care: It’s all about the science!
Your skin and brain are closely linked. It’s been proven. Research published in a journal… Check out the *Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology*. Think about the emotional toll of bad acne! For some, it goes far beyond just skin deep. The resulting depression, anxiety, or even suicidal ideation is a serious concern. Your skin and your mind are connected. When your skin is healthy, you often feel happier and more confident. This connection is surprisingly strong; many people miss it. Think about how confident you feel with clear, healthy skin.
Scientists did a study; their findings were in the *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*. Patients who got regular facials felt happier and less worried. This improvement in their mood and overall wellness was pretty significant. [2] It’s no wonder that estheticians like myself often find ourselves playing the role of therapist, confidante, and skincare guru all at once!
The Power of Touch
One of the most significant benefits of skin care is the power of human touch. As humans, we crave connection and physical contact – it’s essential to our emotional well-being. And here’s what’s cool: Alternative and Complementary Medicine is covered in this journal! Massage therapy, a regular part of many facials, can really help you relax. The effects are noticeable: lower cortisol, a slower heart rate and blood pressure, and a happy hormone increase. Oxytocin, the “love” hormone, gives you that feel-good feeling. [3]
Scheduling Self Care
So, how can you prioritize skin care as a form of self-care? It’s simple: schedule a one-on-one facial session with an esthetician like myself! Not only will you reap the benefits of professional skincare expertise, but you’ll also get to enjoy some much-needed “me time.”
In our busy lives, it’s easy to put self-care on the backburner. Feeling good shows on your face. A healthy glow comes from inner peace and healthy skin habits. Think of it as self-care that shows. By prioritizing skin care, you’re telling yourself that you’re worth it – that you deserve to feel good, both inside and out.
We’ve reached the end.
More than a profession, being an esthetician lets me help people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. I get a lot of joy from it; it’s amazing. Radiate health; start with self-care. Prioritizing our well-being is the first step toward feeling better, inside and out.
So, go ahead – book that facial appointment, take a few minutes each day to pamper yourself, and remember that taking care of your skin is, in fact, taking care of your entire self.
References
[1] J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(10):14–16.
[2] J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018;17(2):143–148.
[3] J Altern Complement Med. 2018;24(3):236–243.
