Healthy skin gives a sense of self-confidence and satisfaction. But the impact of poor skin on mental health can be profound and multifaceted. Skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea can affect a person's self-esteem and body image.
Furthermore, visible skin problems can cause confusion, insecurity and negative attitudes towards appearance, which affect self-esteem.
According to Dr Rashmi Sharma, senior consultant in dermatology at Vasant Kunj Fortis Hospital, poor skin health has various psychological effects, including emotional and psychological.
- Skin diseases such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, etc. they can seriously affect a person's self-esteem and body image. People may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or even ashamed of their skin condition, which can lead to low self-esteem and social withdrawal.
- Living with chronic skin conditions can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Stress from managing symptoms, discomfort or pain, and social isolation can affect mental health. Fear of judgment or rejection from others can also exacerbate these feelings.
- People with poor skin health may avoid social situations or activities that involve public appearances due to concerns about their appearance. This social isolation can lead to isolation, loneliness and a reduced quality of life.
- Skin conditions can affect relationships with family, friends and romantic partners. Emotional stress caused by poor skin health can strain relationships and lead to misunderstandings or conflicts.
- Some people may turn to negative coping mechanisms such as overeating, drug abuse, or self-harm to deal with the emotional stress caused by their skin condition.
- In more severe cases, people with skin problems can develop body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a mental health condition characterized by worry about perceived flaws or appearance. BDD can significantly interfere with daily activities and may require professional intervention.
“The mental impact of poor overall skin health can be profound and multifaceted. For people with emotional issues related to the skin condition, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional, therapist, or support group to cope the physical and emotional aspects of the skin. their health," Dr Sharma told Financial Express.com.
Meanwhile, Dr Rahul Chandhok, chief consultant in mental health and behavioral sciences at Artemis Hospital Gurugram, told FinancialExpress.com that visible skin conditions often lead to low self-esteem, negative self-esteem, anxiety and depression.
“The anxiety, frustration, and pain caused by skin problems can increase a person's feelings of depression, anxiety, and helplessness. Another thing that people with skin problems often experience is a lack of self-confidence Plus, social standards of just looking good add to the emotional impact of skin problems on your appearance and skin.Constantly perceiving a problem makes a person more anxious and socially vulnerable, says Dr. Chandhok.
It should be noted that skin health can be greatly aided by a holistic approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, good mental well-being and stress management.
“It's important to understand that healthy skin is not what you see on screen, but is basically all about filters and makeup. It's important to embrace your natural self and take care of your naturally happy skin. Stop changing yourself to meet unrealistic beauty standards because you may ruin your natural beauty in the process. It is advisable to consult dermatologists and mental health experts for proper advice and treatment for skin and mental health problems ,” Dr Monica Bambru, head of dermatology at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, told Financial Express.com .
Integrating mental health and skin health practices can contribute to a more balanced and sustainable approach to overall wellness, she said.