Life can be hectic and often filled with stressors but even the smallest amount of stress can have negative effects on the body—especially the skin. We chatted with Marcelle Cosmetics’ Happiness Expert and PhD, Dr. Gillian, on how to regain control of your stress and ease its strain on your mind, body and complexion. —Vita Daily
What is a Happiness Expert?!
I am a happiness researcher, which means I study the science of happiness. My PhD is from Western University in Health Science, and my primary areas of research are happiness and health. I am a scientist on a mission to help people live their happiest life. There is no secret to happiness, but there is a science to it. In recent years, scientists have reached the overwhelming conclusion that it is possible to change our happiness levels, and my work seeks to discover how to do that in a meaningful and thoughtful way.
Tell us about your expertise on stress: what it is, and how it can impact our physical health (our bodies, and especially our skin).
The intricate relationship between happiness and stress has garnered considerable attention within the field of psychology and related disciplines. While happiness represents a positive emotional state characterized by feelings of contentment and life satisfaction, stress encompasses the physiological and psychological responses to challenging situations or demands. Research indicates that heightened levels of happiness can serve as a protective factor against the deleterious effects of stress. Individuals experiencing greater levels of happiness often exhibit enhanced resilience and coping strategies, thereby mitigating the potentially adverse impacts of stressors such as tired skin and a decrease of energy.
As we enter the busy fall/back-to-school season, what are your top tips on reducing stress and the negative effects it has on the body?
Keep your skin and body hydrated: The body is prone to dehydration during colder months because we opt for more caffeinated diuretics (i.e., teas and coffee). Knowing that, making an effort to drink more water and keep your skin moisturized with a hydrating (fall-ready) skincare routine to battle dehydration on the inside and outside.
Move your body! Engaging in regular physical activity is documented to confer manifold benefits, including stress reduction. Exercise induces the release of endorphins, promoting mood enhancement and stress alleviation, while also facilitating overall physiological well-being.
Make time for friends/family: Social Support Networks: Cultivating robust social connections serves as a buffer against stress’s adverse effects. Strong social support systems offer emotional validation, problem-solving resources, and opportunities for social engagement, thereby fostering resilience.
Engage in a hobby: Pursuing hobbies and activities that bring pleasure can act as an effective stress diversion, offering an avenue for relaxation, personal expression, and a break from stress-induced ruminations.
Do something nice for someone: Seventy-eight per cent of people who volunteered in the last year said that it lowered their stress levels. There are countless ways to offer help, such as volunteering at a local homeless shelter, food bank, or offering your services in underserved classrooms.
How does a healthy skincare routine figure into stress management?
A healthy skincare routine and stress management is like a dynamic tango between your skin and mind. Picture this: You have your cleanser, moisturizer, and serums lined up like soldiers on your bathroom shelf. Amidst the chaos of life, this routine becomes your Zen sanctuary. It’s like a daily meditation for your face—you’re cleansing away worries as you cleanse your skin, moisturizing your soul as you moisturize your complexion.
What does your personal skincare routine look like, and how does it help you manage daily stressors?
My skincare routine plays a big part in managing daily stressors. I try to practice good sleep hygiene, which are actions that create sleep-friendly environments and enhance your chances of falling asleep, such as a calming skincare routine before bed. Engaging your senses can help your mind slow down and focus on your body, which I engage by adding in different textures to my skincare routine. I begin my nighttime skincare routine by using the Marcelle Hyaluronic Acid and Probiotic Serum, that has a silky texture making my skin feel soft, fresh and deeply hydrated. Next, I love to use a Retinol serum before bed that Reduces dark spots and evens skin tone. Finally, I finish my skincare routine with a moisturizing night cream that keeps my skin glowing before bed. I love the Marcelle Night Cream because it’s a thicker texture that I can feel hydrating my skin after putting it on. These three steps all have different textures, which helps put my mind on pause and focus on the feeling of each step, while also going to bed visibly glowing.
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