N.I.C.E.: The Relationship of Mind and SkinSkin does more than present one’s “face” to the world – it plays a vital role in the maintenance of physical and mental health. As our largest organ, the skin has the ability to respond to internal and external stimuli, responding to environmental cues while transmitting bodily conditions to the outside world, as well as playing an important role in the history of medicine.
An internal web connects all of the body’s organs and functions, helping to maintain homeostasis and creating the neuro-immuno-cutaneous-endocrine (N.I.C.E.) network. By understanding how different parts of the body affect one another, we can use the skin as an external window to our internal health.
The mind, brain and body connection in wellness and disease has been appreciated for centuries. While modern medicine is often focused on acute disease, many individuals living with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, AIDS or chronic pain, are looking for alternative therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy and other perceived mind-body links. Although alternative approaches typically lack the accepted scientific foundations of “Western” medicine, these approaches highlight the capacity of humans to respond to a range of interventions, including touch, sound, imagery and fragrance.
It is likely that other sensory modalities have equally profound effects on physical and mental health. How, for instance, does scent influence the body and mind? Odors, scents and fragrances have long been used in a host of rituals, including religious rites and as primitive protection against infection. Acupuncture for reducing pain and bolstering the immune system is frequently used in conjunction with olfactory stimulation with incense. Furthermore, a body of literature suggests that in both therapeutic agents and appearance-enhancing cosmetics, certain odors can influence mood, anxiety, immune function and, possibly, skin health. Since many dermatologic treatments are topical, the addition of specific olfactory cures may maximize the therapeutic value of these agents.
Restorative fragrances, whether in cosmetics or perfumes, have only begun to be applied in settings other than cosmetics. Cosmetics are typically used to enhance appearance, a sense of youthfulness and self-esteem. Studies have suggested that scents have possible effects on function, mood and anxiety. Because many skin conditions have a multi-factorial origin, a multi-pronged approach, such as products by Biomedic, may help enhance traditional creams and ointments in restoring normalcy to the skin.
Appearance, although often relegated to a minor concern in overall health, plays a crucial role in the maintenance of self-esteem and mental and physical health. By keeping your skin healthy, you may be helping your whole body to function at its peak. |
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