We are well into February – the month of LOVE – and while we usually think of loving our partner or our friends and family during this time of year, we at Frownies want to highlight loving YOURSELF first!
“Self-love means that you accept yourself fully, treat yourself with kindness and respect, and nurture your growth and wellbeing,” according to PsychCentral.
Research has shown that there are endless health benefits to loving yourself – including many for your skin! Here are a few ways that positive feelings towards yourself improve your outward appearance.
Self-love can:
- Improve your skin’s texture
A positive attitude can actually help maintain healthy, radiant skin through the release of the happy hormones – oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. These hormones help to increase blood circulation to distribute more oxygen and nutrients throughout your body, including to your skin. The increased blood flow gives your skin a youthful glow. And the extra oxygen and nutrients allow your skin to repair and regenerate at a faster rate, so your skin is smoother and healthier.
- Decreases acne and inflammation
The stress hormones such as cortisol and cytokines can wreak havoc on your skin. Cortisol triggers an overproduction of oil from the sebaceous glands in your skin which can lead to breakouts. Similarly, many skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can be triggered by increased stress.
Luckily, happy people have lower levels of these stress hormones. Of course, we all encounter stressors every day; however, having healthy coping mechanisms and taking steps to decrease chronic stress can help maintain healthy looking skin.
- Slow signs of aging
Similar to the causes of acne and inflammation, aging is thought to be caused by increased levels of chronic stress hormones. Cortisol and cytokines inhibit collagen production and impair the skin’s protective barrier leaving it prone to environmental damage and loss of hydration.
On the contrary, positive people scowl less resulting in fewer forehead wrinkles and sleep better resulting in less puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.
- More likely to make healthy choices
When you feel good about yourself, you’re more likely to take care of yourself. This often looks like taking time to exercise, eating nourishing foods, and drinking plenty of water – all of which can benefit your skin! In terms of skincare, positive people also take pride in their appearance and may follow a healthy skincare and makeup routine.
The best news of all – it’s all part of a positivity cycle! When you choose happiness, your skin looks better. And when you’re pleased with your outward appearance, it can also make you more confident!
Not really loving yourself yet? Try repeating a daily affirmation. Research proves that thinking, writing, and even speaking a positive affirmation about yourself can change your attitude and outlook on life.
Here are some skin-positive affirmations we loved from Utterly Positive:
I am comfortable in my own skin and I radiate confidence.
I take good care of my skin to keep it beautiful and clean.
I always see the bright side in things and that brightness shows in my face.
I choose to eat healthy and it shows in my youthful skin.
I drink enough water every day to keep my skin moisturized from the inside.
Which are your favorite affirmations?
Remember, self-love affirmations don’t only have to be skin-deep! Try speaking positivity into any area of your life. You may be surprised by the results!
By: Dr. Megan C. Wright, PT, DPT
Megan C. Wright, PT, DPT is an authority in health and wellness content with over ten years of clinical experience as well as a freelance health writer. Megan received a BA in English from the University of Virginia and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Marymount University. Megan lives outside Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young boys.