Somatic Skincare: How Stress-Prone People Can Reduce Breakouts, Have Supple Firm Skin, Calm Redness, and Feel Confident When They Look In The Mirror
Most skin troubles actually kick off when our nervous system gets out of whack.
This applies to stress-related breakouts or rashes, teenage acne, skin imbalances due to food sensitivities, hormonal acne that appears around the mensural cycle, excessive and early skin wrinkling, overall skin sensitivity and redness, dry and/or dehydrated skin, and even how the skin reacts to the sun.
There’s a lot to unpack here, so let’s go through some of the biggest influencers on our skin.
When our nervous system isn't quite in sync, it can disrupt our hormonal balance.
When the nervous system is constantly in a state of stress or overactivity, it can lead to the overproduction of stress hormones like cortisol. This can set off a domino effect and disrupt the normal secretion of other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, hormones responsible for regulating our metabolism, and sleep patterns. As a result, we may experience hormone-related breakouts, sensitivity, and dryness.
Stress impacts our digestive system, and it can even affect our ability to tolerate certain foods.
When the nervous system is constantly stressed or imbalanced, it can lead to reduced stomach acid production, slower motility, and imbalanced gut flora, making us more susceptible to food sensitivities and digestive discomfort.
An overactive stress response can affect the liver's ability to detoxify the body effectively and affect blood sugar balance.
The liver may become overwhelmed, accumulating toxins and metabolic waste, further exacerbating digestive issues and promoting food sensitivities.
The liver regulates blood sugar levels and maintains overall metabolic balance. When insulin resistance occurs, the liver may produce more glucose and release it into the bloodstream. Elevated blood sugar can lead to dry and sensitive skin, breakouts, an impaired barrier, and early wrinkling.
Collagen is only produced when the parasympathetic (the rest and digest) nervous system is activated.
Aging is a gift, and I disdain the beauty industry's obsession with anti-aging. With that being said, we have control over how we move through the aging process, and stress can hinder the health and strength of our skin as we age. Keeping the nervous system healthy helps create an environment of robust and resilient fibrous tissue.
Even if someone maintains a healthy diet or eats really "clean," a dysregulated nervous system can wreak havoc on their skin.
Elevated cortisol levels can increase oil production, inflammation, and compromised skin barrier function. This combination can result in skin issues like acne, redness, and sensitivity, even in individuals who are diligent about their diet. Additionally, chronic stress can disrupt the skin's natural healing processes, making it slower to recover from damage or breakouts.
This is a friendly reminder that we have a lot more control than we think over our stress response. We should feel empowered to take on skin issues like hormonal acne or stress-related skin imbalances. But how?
Enter somatic skincare.
"Somatic" means anything related to your physical body—the sensations, experiences, and movements you feel and make with your body. It's about what's happening in your body, as opposed to your thoughts or feelings. So, when you hear "somatic," think "getting out of your head and into your body."
A somatic approach to skin healing emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body in promoting skin health. It involves holistic practices that address not only the physical aspects of the skin but also the emotional and mental factors that can affect its condition.
The way I see it, it's a two-way street. The nervous system can affect your skin. But through your skin practices, you can also affect your nervous system.
Incorporating somatic healing principles into your daily skincare routine involves adopting mindful practices prioritizing the mind-body connection and overall well-being. Here are some steps and techniques to help you integrate somatic healing into your skincare regimen:
Mindful Cleansing: Start your skincare routine with mindfulness. Instead of rushing through cleansing, take a moment to connect with your skin. Notice the sensation of the water, the texture of your cleanser, and the gentle motions as you cleanse your face.
Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing while cleansing and applying skincare products. Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Deep breathing can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Product Selection:
Choose skincare products that align with somatic healing principles.
Look for natural, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly options.
Read ingredient labels to ensure you use products that nourish your skin without harsh chemicals.
Facial Self-Massage:
Incorporate facial self-massage into your skincare routine.
Use gentle, upward strokes to promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Focus on areas of tension, such as the jawline or forehead.
Consider using a facial roller or gua sha tool for added benefits.
Mindful Application: When applying serums, moisturizers, or oils, apply them intentionally. Gently massage the products into your skin, using slow and deliberate movements. This promotes relaxation and enhances product absorption.
Hydration Ritual: Drinking a glass of water in the morning and evening can be a hydration ritual that supports your skin from the inside out. Mindfully savor each sip, and be aware of the hydration benefits for your skin.
Evening Relaxation: In the evening, incorporate a calming skincare routine that signals to your body it's time to wind down. Use products with soothing ingredients like chamomile or lavender, and avoid harsh treatments that can be stimulating.
Nighttime Self-Massage: Consider a relaxing self-massage routine before bedtime. Focus on areas like the neck, shoulders, and face to release tension accumulated during the day.
Gratitude Practice: Cultivate gratitude by reflecting on the simple pleasure of caring for your skin. Express gratitude for your body and its ability to heal and rejuvenate.
Consistency: Consistency is key to seeing improvements in your skin's health. Establish a daily skincare routine that incorporates somatic healing practices, and commit to it as an act of self-care and self-love.
The biggest part is carving out time and making it a prioritized habit. If you're looking for ways to stick to habits, I highly recommend the book Atomic Habits by James Clear. This book changed the game for me with habit building and habit stacking, and might do the same for you as well!