Our skin is our largest organ, and it’s the only organ with which we have a special relationship. We do not see our liver every day or touch our kidneys first thing in the morning. Nor do we look at our lungs in the mirror each night to see how they have coped with the day. Our skin is always there, always visible, always touchable. Our skin works hard to keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. It’s also our body’s first interaction with the world, and has a sensitive connection to our brain. Whenever we feel anxious or overwhelmed it is reflected in our skin.

We often tell people how well they look, but how did you make that judgment? from their skin!
As a skin specialist, Charlotte Barbosa, I can visibly see stress. Lifestyle choices, hormonal fluctuations, exacerbation of chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis on the skin; especially with my guests that I see on a regular basis, their skin tells me a story: break-outs, dull skin, dehydration can all be tell-tell signs and an indication of stress, anxiety, and fatigue.

As an esthetician I truly feel honoured that my guests trust me to look after them, to help them heal and de-stress. I love performing results driven facials, but I also realize the importance of my touch in treatments.

This was made ever more apparent to me last week. I am like clockwork with my monthly facials (usually hydradermie – I love this facial, for brightening my complexion, giving me a great deep clean without stripping my skin whilst infusing my skin with potent anti-oxidants and actives to address my biggest concern – ageing) but last week I decided, or should I say needed a massage.

I booked with Marcia, a therapists with over 15 years experience, but most importantly for me, someone with fantastic energy, a calming disposition, a touch that is truly magical – she relaxed my tired and stressed muscles and really took me to a place of calm and serenity. I remember speaking with Marcia afterwards and saying how we must never underestimate how our touch effects our guests, yes of course, we all want aesthetic results, but we can never forget the importance of soothing our mind – ultimately this will be reflected and will shine on the outside!

Our lives are hectic, our lives are demanding, our lives are stressful but we must not forget to look after ourselves, we must not forget to take time to relax and unwind.

Be kind to yourself – do not concentrate on the flaws in your skin. We all have them! Do your best to look after yourself and your skin and leave the critiquing behind. Contentment will be reflected in your skin.

8 Ways to Reduce the Effects of Stress on Your Skin
According to WebMd here are some ways to limit your stress,

1. Don’t neglect your skin. Take care of your skin, even if you’re tired or stressed.
2. Get regular exercise. It’s good for your skin and the rest of your body.
3. Prioritize self-care. Take time for yourself to do something you enjoy, even if you only have 10 minutes. Take a bath or read an article.
4. Take a walk around the block.
5. Visit a spa or holistic health centre – let someone else take care of you!
6. Practice stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation or visual imagery.
7. Get enough sleep. Seven to eight hours each night is ideal.
8. Say no. It’s ok to set limits and boundaries to lower your stress.

Best wishes!