Understanding the intricate connections between the mind and body is essential for spa and wellness professionals. Our clients are not just seeking treatments in pursuit of beauty, but are hoping to improve their overall well-being by addressing stress and its physical manifestations. By learning about the science behind stress and acne, spa and wellness experts can better serve their clients' holistic needs.
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Understanding the intricate connections between the mind and body is essential for spa and wellness professionals. Our clients are not just seeking treatments in pursuit of beauty, but are hoping to improve their overall well-being by addressing stress and its physical manifestations. By learning about the science behind stress and acne, spa and wellness experts can better serve their clients' holistic needs.
In this industry, we know that acne is not just a phase teenagers grow out of, with almost half of our clients coming to us for help with adult acne.1 In my experience, the cause of adult acne is most commonly hormonal. Life throws us curve balls like stress, diet changes or just natural cycles, and our skin reacts. It’s fascinating how our bodies communicate with us this way.
To appreciate how stress can lead to acne, it's crucial to understand the stress response, often called “fight or flight.”2 This primal reaction is governed by the body's sympathetic nervous system and is designed to help us handle perceived threats. When stressed, the body releases a cocktail of hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline, which triggers a cascade of physiological changes.
Effects of Cortisol
Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, plays a particularly significant role in the development of acne.3 First, elevated cortisol levels can stimulate the skin’s sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which can clog pores and lead to acne.
Cortisol also causes inflammation. Stress-induced inflammation can exacerbate swelling and redness, which are common in acne breakouts. Chronic stress also weakens the immune system, weakening the skin's natural healing processes and making acne more persistent.
Adrenaline and Its Impact on Lifestyle
Adrenaline is another hormone our body releases during times of stress.4 This hormone boosts energy and alertness but may indirectly contribute to acne development through lifestyle changes.
First, an adrenalin rush often results in poor eating habits. Stress tends to lead to craving high-sugar, high-fat foods that can aggravate acne.
Second, adrenalin disturbs our sleep patterns. This is problematic for acne because lack of rest can affect the skin's ability to repair itself.
Finally, stress often leads to a lack of routine. Under stress, people might neglect their skin care routines, worsening or triggering acne.
While we understand the basic mechanisms of stress and its physiological effects, it's important to note that acne does not have a one-cause-fits-all explanation. Genetics, environment, diet and hormonal factors all play a role. However, managing stress is a critical component in a holistic approach to treating acne.
How the Spa and Wellness Industry Can Help
As spa and wellness professionals, we are uniquely positioned to help mitigate the effects of stress and offer strategies to combat stress-induced acne. First and foremost, we can educate our clients about how stress impacts their skin and the importance of stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga and regular exercise.
We can do our part to reduce clients’ stress by providing a calming environment. The ambiance of our spa should exude tranquility, providing a respite from the client's stressful daily life. We can even incorporate relaxation techniques into our offerings, such as massage, guided relaxation or mindful breathing exercises.
Of course, our job is to recommend effective products and help clients establish a skin care routine. The top three products I recommend include a gentle cleanser that removes build-up without stripping natural oils, a toner that balances pH, and a serum to protect and brighten skin.
In addition to skin care, it’s important to stay current with the latest treatments. I have three personal favorites: Laser Genesis is like a magic wand for skin, while Accutane works wonders from the inside out, and light therapy is our go-to glow-up tool to help eliminate bacteria. When used in combination, these groundbreaking treatments tackle acne head-on.
Finally, it is our responsibility to address acne holistically by promoting a healthy lifestyle: Balanced diets, adequate hydration, regular physical activity and sufficient sleep are critical for healthy skin.
As spa and wellness professionals, arming ourselves with the scientific understanding of stress and its impact on acne enables us to deliver comprehensive, empathetic and effective care. By acknowledging the mental and emotional factors that contribute to skin health, we can foster lasting relationships with clients, guiding them toward not only external beauty but also internal peace and well-being.
Acne can psychologically take a toll on our clients—something many of us know all too well. We help clients find clearer skin and boost their confidence. As wellness advocates, your role in educating and supporting clients through this journey is invaluable.
References:
- https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/really-acne/adult-acne
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541120/
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-cortisol-in-the-body
- https://mhanational.org/what-adrenaline
Paul Charette is the founder of Charette Cosmetics. A medical aesthetician and cosmetic practitioner, his extensive esthetic education, unparalleled techniques and attention to detail are evident in his dedication to finding the most effective skin care products and protocols. Charette is passionate about helping his clients achieve their goals so they feel confident and beautiful in their skin.
