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Welcome to the era of psychodermatology, where the beauty industry is not just about looking good, but feeling good too. It’s a concept that’s making waves, championed by forward-thinkers like Stephanie Lee, CEO and founder of selfmade, a pioneering beauty brand that seamlessly integrates psychodermatology into its product line, offering innovative skincare solutions that cater to both emotional well-being and skin health.
But what does this mean for you and me? It’s about understanding that our skin is more than a canvas; it’s a mirror reflecting our inner emotional world. Intrigued? Ahead, we dive into this intriguing intersection of mind, mood, and skincare.
What is Psychodermatology?
Imagine a world where your skincare routine does more than just address wrinkles or acne. Psychodermatology does just that. It’s the sweet spot where psychology meets dermatology. Mental health in beauty has now become the norm, says Lee and she predicts we will see a proliferation of brands, initiatives, fundraising, content, etc. geared towards this conversation.
Psychodermatology recognizes that stress, anxiety, and even happiness can leave their marks on our skin. For instance, have you noticed how a bout of stress can lead to a breakout? Or how eczema flares up during anxious times? Psychodermatology aims to treat these conditions by looking at the emotional triggers behind them.
Brands Leading the Charge
Several legacy brands have long embraced this approach. Take Aveda, for example, known for its stress-relief products that combine skincare with aromatherapy. Or the mindfulness-based skincare rituals from brands like Kiehl’s, promoting not just skin health but mental well-being. These brands understand that a calm mind often means clearer skin. But there’s a rise of newer beauty brands focused on the science of self-worth. These brands and recognizing the intricate connection between our emotional well-being and skin health. They’re not just selling beauty products; they’re offering holistic solutions that cater to both the psyche and the skin.
Developed with mental health experts and community members, selfmade goes beyond the superficial aspects of skincare. Instead, they delve into the psychological effects of their products, understanding that emotional factors like stress, anxiety, and mood can have profound effects on the skin. Their product line is designed to address these emotional aspects, offering skincare solutions that are as much about nurturing mental health as they are about treating the skin.
Why It Matters
Why is psychodermatology so important? Because it’s acknowledging that beauty is not just skin deep. It’s a recognition that our mental state plays a crucial role in our overall health, including our skin. In a world where stress and mental health challenges are increasingly common, incorporating psychodermatology into our beauty regimes is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Lee rightly questions whether this trend is purely positive, highlighting potential concerns about exacerbating issues like body dysmorphia and image-related anxiety, especially among younger generations. This cautionary note reminds us that while psychodermatology can be a powerful tool for wellness, it needs to be approached with care and sensitivity.
The rise of brands like selfmade in the psychodermatology space is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of a growing awareness of the complex relationship between our mental state and our skin. As this field continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative products and approaches that cater to our mental well-being, alongside our physical appearance, heralding a new era in beauty and health.
