Practicing mindful skincare can lower your stress levels and reduce the number of products you put on your body. A recent study found that 20% of seniors experience a lot of stress and 42% feel some stress. Exercise, spending time with pets, and regularly doing a hobby are well-known to lower stress levels. But, did you know that your skincare routine can play a role too? Let’s find out how to calm your mind and age gracefully by making the most of your beauty routine.
Make skincare use a ritual
Most people will slap on their skincare items in a matter of minutes. The idea behind mindful skincare is to take your time applying items in a quiet and calm environment. It’s a time just for you. Your morning routine should prepare you for the day ahead while your evening skincare ritual should tell your body that it’s time to go to bed. When you cleanse your skin, sit back and think about how it’s benefiting your pores. Your moisturizing routine should be enjoyed as it slowly nourishes and absorbs into your skin. Don’t just focus on how your skincare feels, either. Take in each product’s scent and let it transport you to a peaceful place. Opt for botanical-based products where possible, such as rose, lavender, and lemongrass.
Focus on the right parts of your skin
It’s common to use skincare products because you’ve read in magazines and seen online that you should. Instead of using a standard list of lotions and creams, be mindful of the ones you need to use. This will reduce the number of products (and chemicals) that you put on your skin and help to tackle your real problem areas. For example, hyperpigmentation can occur in older people due to medications, a decrease in melanocytes, and sun damage. Applying a whitening body lotion can tackle hyperpigmentation spots on the body. These lotions work by softening the keratin on the skin and blocking melanin transfer. When you’re applying products like this to your body, spend a few minutes really focusing on rubbing them in and taking in how they make your skin feel.
Carefully consider the products you use
You wouldn’t choose to put chemicals into your body, so why would you opt to put them on it? Studies have found that 1 in every 8 ingredients in cosmetics is an industrial chemical. By being mindful of the skincare products you use, you’ll show your respect for your body. You can even go one step further and stick with vegan products. Another thing to be mindful of is which ingredients are beneficial to your skin. Antioxidants are particularly good for older skin as they repair sun damage. Keep a look out for products containing retinol as it increases collagen production (which naturally reduces with age)and vitamin C which strengthens the skin. This is beneficial as the skin naturally thins with age and can be prone to tearing.
By being mindful of your skincare routine, your health, well-being, and skin will benefit. Mindfulness has been proven to cut stress levels and can lead to better product choices, too.
