How A Good Skincare Routine Can Improve Your Mental Health
If you’re like us, you love taking the time to do your skincare routine every night. A skincare routine is a great way to take care of yourself and even help unwind before bed, not to mention it helps maintain good skin health and hygiene. Did you know that a skincare routine can be considered an act of self-care? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy.”
In honor of World Mental Health Day, we’re going to talk about why skincare routines are a form of self-care and give some examples of self-care rituals to improve your mental health.
What is World Mental Health Day?
World Mental Health day is an “international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.” [Wikipedia] The first day was celebrated in 1992 and this year marks the 29th year. According to the World Health Organization, “the overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. This day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.”
When is World Mental Health Day?
World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10. This year, it falls on a Sunday and the campaign slogan for 2021 is Mental health care for all: let’s make it a reality.
Why Skincare is a Form of Self-Care
Now that you have a little more of a background on this important holiday, let’s dive into why we consider skincare a form of self-care and why taking the time to take care of yourself is so important for your mental health.
1. Skincare is Soothing
If you’ve ever gotten a facial, you know just how relaxing something as simple as washing your face can be. One reason why skincare is an act of self care is because it helps you relax and calm down after a long day. For some people, it’s one of the only times of their day they get to completely focus on themselves and take care of their skin. Plus, the physical act of washing your face, massaging serums and oils into the skin, and even using tools like a gua sha or jade roller can be very physically soothing in addition to mentally calming. Taking care of your skin feels good and helps you relax and unwind.
2. Skincare Routines Provide Stability and Daily Habits
Everyday routines are so important for your mental and physical wellbeing. According to a study published in 2018 by Lancet Psychiatry, researchers found that those who don’t have consistency or routine in their days were more likely to suffer from major depressive and bipolar disorders, mood problems, loneliness, and lower happiness. The structure a skincare routine provides to your life as a way to start and end each day creates a good daily habit and something stable to look forward to each day.
3. Taking Time For Yourself is Great for Your Mental Health
Scheduling time each day to take care of yourself through habits like a skincare routine is a form of self-care because you’re showing up and doing something nice for yourself. No matter how busy or stressful the day gets, if you are consistent with a skincare routine every day, you’ll always have something to look forward to and a block of time that is just for you. Practicing self-love and taking care of your skin will make you feel happier, more confident, and overall more proud of yourself for keeping up with a routine and good daily habits.
Of course, we encourage you to take time to do other things you love, in addition to skincare - whether it be going to your favorite workout class, baking your favorite treats, or reading a good book with no interruptions - the possibilities are endless.
4. Bonding with Others Through Skincare
While skincare is relaxing enough to do by yourself, it can also help you bond with others and improve your relationships. You can schedule spa days with your friends, do DIY spa nights at home, or even just talk about your skincare routines and recommend new products to one another. The act of doing something you all enjoy, together, will help improve overall happiness and put you in a positive state of mind.
Spending quality time with your loved ones is very beneficial to your mental health. We guarantee you’ll always feel better after time spent doing a fun activity with the people you love. Studies show that quality time spent doing things you love with people you love actually has a positive effect on the brain and your mental health. So call up a friend and check out the new spa you’ve been eyeing, or do an at-home spa night with your siblings - chances are it will help you feel better in more ways than you think!
What are your favorite practices or rituals to take care of your mental health? We want to know how you’re going to be celebrating #WorldMentalHealth day in the comments below.
