Stress and tension from daily pressures affect mental and physical health. Experts indicate that the skin, hair, and nails are particularly impacted by this stress. Dermatologist Kira Barr states, "Our brain and skin are closely connected and communicate with each other. This means that when we face chronic stress from work, relationships, or current events, the skin becomes a target and source of stress hormones, which can make the skin more susceptible to itching, inflammation, irritation, and infections. When you understand how stress affects your body, you can more effectively incorporate mind-body practices to help reduce stress and improve your physical, mental, and emotional health."
As the largest organ in the body, the skin reflects what happens internally, according to experts. Stress can lead to increased inflammation, slow down wound healing, and negatively impact skin conditions. The glands produce more oil when exposed to stress, which can exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals. Stress can also trigger skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema.
Stress can significantly affect the aging of our skin, as stress hormones break down collagen and elastin in the skin and interfere with their renewal, which can accelerate the aging process and lead to more fine lines and wrinkles. Hair and its growth are also affected by stress, contributing to thinning and hair loss. While most stress-induced hair loss is temporary, it is important to address it quickly to prevent irreparable damage. Dr. Barr notes, "Mind-body practices can help regulate the stress response, which can reduce symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment and improve quality of life, linked to improved treatment and the condition of the skin itself. Learning how to manage your stress response is a very powerful addition to any skincare regimen."
Mind-body practices are most effective when used alongside other treatments. Common examples of mind-body practices include:
- **Meditation**: A practice that involves focusing or clearing the mind, which can help reduce blood pressure and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- **Acupuncture**: This technique involves inserting thin needles into the skin to help relieve pain and reduce stress. It may also help decrease the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraines.
- **Imagery**: A method that involves guiding oneself and the mind to visualize images, thoughts, symbols, or using positive thinking to help achieve the desired outcome such as feeling or mental state or bodily sensation.
- **Breathing exercises**: This technique focuses on specific breathing exercises designed to control breathing.
- **Tai Chi or Qigong**: Practicing martial arts to help improve balance and reduce back pain.
- **Yoga**: A mind-body exercise that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga focuses on improving mental, emotional, and sleep health as well as balance.
Dr. Barr emphasizes that mind-body techniques are not a one-size-fits-all approach; each person has a unique relationship with stress. Our awareness and experience of stress determine how it affects us and how we respond to different mind-body techniques, so individuals should use the techniques that suit them best.
