It may seem a bit extreme to say that the face is the reflection of the soul… but it does have some truth. This is true of almost all popular wisdom. The skin is the largest and most complex organ of the body, and dermatologists keep repeating this fact. Mood disorders like stress and anxiety can be found in our epidermis.
Is there scientific evidence to support this strange alliance? Dr. Natalia Jimenez is a Madrid dermatologist and expert in the aesthetic side of her speciality. She says that the relationship is closer than we could imagine. It becomes obvious at the embryonic stage. The three layers of our cells are ectoderm mesoderm and endoderm.
It is interesting to note that both skin and brain development originate from the same layer, the ectoderm. The ectoderm is the layer that gives rise to skin and brain. In “Put yourself into your skin” (Editorial Aguilar), Jimenez, an expert in teaching and research, offers advice on skin care. This includes a focus on getting to know the skin well. This step is often skipped when we want it to be better. She says that knowing the basics of skin care can help us to act quickly and get great results for less.
Before we rush to buy creams, ampoules, and serums, it is important to remember that our emotions can be reflected in our skin. “That’s why, when we feel shameful, our hair stands up in response to some sensations she examines.
Jimenez believes that stress is the biggest enemy to beautiful, healthy skin. He explains that stress causes blood to be high in cortisol, adrenaline and can lead to skin problems. Although nervousness isn’t the only factor responsible for the most common skin conditions dermatologists see (atopic dermatitis and rosacea), it can trigger flare-ups.
Jimenez has extensive experience and can confirm that creams and medication alone are not enough to improve these conditions. Most cases require deep changes to the underlying causes. Patients are often skeptical about the effectiveness of creams and medications. He laments that everything that is concerned with the skin is like this.
We are going give the experts a nod of confidence and will try to improve our skin’s condition without resorting to miracle cures. What can we do? Jimenez suggests that we start with some exercise, and if possible, some yoga or mediation. Her findings show that regular physical activity, even if it’s not a competitive one, can improve the skin’s condition. Studies have shown that exercising helps to preserve and renew collagen, which is essential for firmness and elastin. Additionally, sweating improves blood circulation and “cleanses” the skin.
Jimenez also suggests another ‘easy’ tip: “Sleep six to eight hours.” Jimenez points out that research shows that a shorter sleep time is associated with a higher appearance of wrinkles. Experts also stress that collagen and elasticin are naturally produced while you sleep and that the skin is oxygenated, regenerated, and therefore, it is possible to get wrinkles.
Get enough sleep, exercise, and avoid any toxins like alcohol or tobacco. The good health of your skin is 75% dependent on your good habits, and 25% on your genetics. Although the percentage of what we inherit from our parents may not be negligible, we can’t let our genetic advantages go unclaimed. Jimenez points out that sunbathing is the leading cause of aging.
He says that of all the ways to improve the skin condition, the most important is photoprotection 50+. He insists that it is essential and cannot be done without. He emphasizes that it should be used all year. This, along with very few (and inexpensive) cosmetics, can help us have healthy and beautiful skin. You don’t need to spend a lot on creams and treatments. He recriminates, saying that he has seen people use Botox in winter to remove unwanted spots and then expose themselves to the sun in summer.
Natalia Jimenez’s’skincare” recommendation, which is a reference to famous people like Jon Kortajarena the model, is based upon good habits and few products. (Jimenez is a huge fan of retinol in the night routine), but it is very effective. She says, “You don’t have to do as the Koreans with their endless care regimens that have become so trendy.”
Natalia Jimenez, a dermatologist, debunks many skin myths in her book. You need to drink two liters of water per day to maintain your skin’s beauty, health, and care. She clarified that while water is important for general body functioning, the skin’s hydration is controlled by the moisturizing products you use. It is important to keep your skin hydrated in order to prevent stress-related conditions. If this happens, the protective barrier will not function properly, and you may experience peeling or discomfort.
