Did you know Stress affects our Skin? The Link Between Mental Health And Our Skin

We all know stress can take a toll on our mental health, but did you know it can also affect your skin? As a qualified clinical aromatherapist and IFPA registered practitioner, I’ve witnessed firsthand how deeply connected our mind, body, and skin truly are. Stress not only impacts our mood but also manifests in physical ways—especially when it comes to skin conditions. In this blog, I want to share my personal journey and how stress and burnout led me to struggle with both chronic migraines and perioral dermatitis, plus some of the ways I’ve learned to manage these conditions.

The Personal Struggle with Chronic Migraines and Perioral Dermatitis

When I was 38, I went through a period of intense burnout that took a toll on both my mental and physical health. I was juggling too much—work, family, social commitments—and completely neglecting self-care. The signs were there, but I didn’t recognise the connection between my increasing stress levels and what was happening to my body.

Around that time, I began experiencing chronic migraines with aura, which felt like a constant, debilitating cloud hovering over me. Migraines would often leave me unable to function, sometimes for days, and they were paired with an annoying aura—a visual disturbance that was both alarming and disorienting. It was as if my body was screaming for attention, but I wasn’t listening.

On top of the migraines, I started noticing perioral dermatitis—a skin condition I’d never had before. Red, flaky patches around my mouth and chin would flare up, making me feel self-conscious and defeated. It was hard to ignore how much stress was affecting my appearance, and at the time, I didn’t understand the connection between my skin and my mental state. Both my migraines and skin condition were symptoms of burnout, and it wasn’t until I took a step back to prioritize my health that I began to see the link.

Understanding the Brain-Skin Connection

It turns out, I wasn’t alone. The brain-skin connection—also known as psychodermatology—explains why stress, anxiety, and burnout can directly impact our skin. When we’re stressed, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that triggers inflammation. For me, this increased inflammation contributed to flare-ups of perioral dermatitis and worsened my migraines.

As Dr. Thomson from Skin+Me explains, “Skin conditions can be exacerbated by stress, and conversely, stress can intensify mental health issues, creating a cyclical relationship.” I’ve lived this cycle personally, where stress triggered my skin flare-ups, and those flare-ups caused me more stress, making everything worse.

The Science Behind Stress and Skin Health

When stress triggers an overproduction of cortisol, it doesn’t just lead to physical inflammation—it can also impair your skin’s ability to retain moisture and fight off harmful bacteria. For me, this meant that not only did I feel physically drained from the constant migraines, but my skin also looked unhealthy and irritated, which further exacerbated my feelings of low self-esteem.

My migraines with aura were, in part, a reflection of the immense pressure I was placing on myself. Migraines can also be triggered by tension, lack of sleep, and hormonal imbalances—all things I was experiencing due to the burnout. On top of the physical symptoms, I was also emotionally affected, feeling overwhelmed and trapped in a cycle of stress and discomfort.

Adopting a Holistic Approach to Well-being

In my journey, I’ve learned that the key to managing both chronic migraines and skin conditions like perioral dermatitis lies in a holistic approach. Over time, I began incorporating stress-management tools like meditation, physical exercise, relaxation breathing, and, of course, my beloved aromatherapy practices. Slowly, I began to see improvement not just in my skin, but in my overall well-being.

I focused on what my body truly needed—rest, self-care, and self-compassion. I learned to prioritise time for myself, whether it was taking a walk with my dog Dolly, practicing yoga, or simply sitting in silence. Making space for myself and reducing my commitments allowed my body to heal.

Managing Perioral Dermatitis and Migraines with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been a lifeline in managing both my migraines and perioral dermatitis. The soothing properties of essential oils like Lavender, Frankincense, and Peppermint helped calm my nervous system, reduce inflammation, and even support my skin’s healing process.

Key Essential Oils for Healing and Relief

• Lavender Essential Oil: I’ve found Lavender essential oil especially helpful for promoting relaxation and reducing the frequency of my migraines. When I could feel the aura of a migraine starting, I’d inhale Lavender or use it topically on my temples and neck to relieve tension.

• Frankincense Essential Oil: Frankincense was another favourite—its anti-inflammatory properties helped not only to soothe my irritated skin but also to ground my mind when the stress felt overwhelming.

• Peppermint Essential Oil: Known for its cooling properties, Peppermint has been invaluable in relieving both skin irritation and the tension associated with migraines.

For my skin, Sweet Almond Oil has been my go-to carrier oil. It’s gentle, non-comedogenic, and nourishing, helping to heal irritated areas around my mouth and chin caused by perioral dermatitis.

My Essential Oil Blends for Healing

In my journey to managing burnout symptoms, I created three signature blends that became a crucial part of my wellness routine: Breathe Calm, Live Calm, and Rest Calm. Each one is designed with specific essential oils to address different aspects of stress, migraine relief, and skin healing.

• Breathe Calm (Lavender, Sweet Orange, and Frankincense): This blend promotes relaxation and calms the mind. Lavender is a well-known migraine soother, Sweet Orange energises and uplifts, while Frankincense helps reduce stress and inflammation.

• Live Calm (Eucalyptus, Lemon, and Peppermint): This invigorating blend is great for boosting focus and energising the body while maintaining a calm mindset. The combination of Eucalyptus and Peppermint helps clear the airways, while Lemon provides an uplifting, refreshing aroma.

• Rest Calm (Lavender, Frankincense, and Geranium): Designed to support relaxation and prepare the body for restful sleep, this blend combines Lavender for its calming properties, Frankincense for grounding, and Geranium for balancing the mood.

How Essential Oils Helped Me Overcome Burnout

After battling burnout for years, these blends became the cornerstone of my healing. Essential oils for stress relief have a profound impact on the body’s cortisol response (the stress hormone), offering instant calm within 22 seconds of inhalation. Whether it’s diffusing oils to calm my mind or applying them topically, I feel the effects almost immediately.

Morning Routine: A Calm Start

It all begins in the morning. The first thing I do when I wake up is reach for my diffuser. I love diffusing essential oils because it’s such an easy, natural way to create the mood I want for the day. My favourite blend for the mornings is Breathe Calm , which I use during my meditation and breathing exercises. Just 30 minutes in the quiet of my bedroom before the world starts moving around me helps me set my intentions for the day.

Tip: I keep a glass of water by my bedside with my oils, so all I have to do is drop a few drops into the diffuser without even having to get out of bed! It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference when you’re half awake.

I use a combination of 2 drops of Sweet Orange, 3 drops of Lavender, and 2 drops of Frankincense. The citrus energises me, the lavender calms my mind, and the frankincense helps to ground me. It’s the perfect way to start my day with intention and peace.

Topical and Inhalation Treatments: Morning Skincare Rituals

Another way I incorporate oils into my morning routine is through a facial brightening treatment. In the summer, I use Sweet Almond Oil—it’s so cooling. In the winter, I switch to sesame oil because it’s nourishing for my skin.

I begin by spraying rose water on my face, and then I apply 3 drops of my essential oil blend. I massage it into my face using my hands or a Gua Sha tool. This is my “me time,” and I make sure to set my alarm early so I can have that hour of quiet before the whole household wakes up. It’s a small but vital practice that sets the tone for the day.

Daytime Pick-Me-Up: Staying Energised

Throughout the day, I continue to use oils to stay focused and energised. When I’m working or need to re-energise, I diffuse Live Calm  in my workspace. It helps me stay grounded and clear-headed as I dive into my tasks.

If I’m out and about, I’ll apply oils using my roller ball to acupressure points—this is great for calming anxiety. I can’t live without my keyring diffuser. I’m sensitive to synthetic smells, and once you start using natural oils, you really begin to notice the difference in your environment. Many perfumes, for example, contain phthalates, which can disrupt your hormones, so I prefer to stick to natural oils wherever I can.

Evening Calm: Winding Down for a Peaceful Night

As the day winds down, I turn to oils again to help me relax. About an hour before bed, I make sure to have some screen-free time. I run a warm bath with Epsom salts, and I either add Rest Calm  oils to the bath or massage them directly onto my skin. Sometimes, I just enjoy the calming scent of Lavender  in my diffuser while I read a book.

One of my favourite rituals before bed is applying oil to the soles of my feet. I slip on cotton socks to lock in the moisture, which not only helps with my circulation but also reduces stress. For someone who’s always cold, this simple act really does wonders to warm me up and prepare me for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Ready to Experience the Healing Power of Aromatherapy?

Discover the transformative effects of essential oils on your body and mind. Try Breathe Calm, Live Calm, and Rest Calm today and feel the benefits of nature’s healing power for stress relief, migraines, and skin support. Start your journey to wellness now with Breathe Calm, Live Calm, and Rest Calm blends!

Essential Oils for skin support 

Essential Oils boost the healing properties of your skin oil and have regenerating and toning properties. Not only are they easily absorbed into your skin, but they also improve the texture, feel, AND look of your skin! To blend your own (also knowing there are no nasties) by popping essential oil drops into the carrier oil depending on what your skin requires. An example below of what to blend for what skin support you may require and more information here.

By prioritising our well-being holistically, we not only nourish our skin but also cultivate a healthier mindset.

Here are some of my favourite essential oils that helped me on my journey:

• Peppermint essential oil improves circulation. It helps to cool the skin,  to soothe inflammation, irritation and itchiness on skin.
• Geranium essential oil helps our patience and serenity and brings balance with our hormones. Is natural anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory oil, it actively boosts skin's health and natural glow. By helping skin stay conditioned, and soothing irritated or breakout prone skin, it fights against skin affected by harsh weather conditions or prone to acne.
• Eucalyptus essential oil reduces inflammation and helps breathing. Can help cleanse the epidermis, ridding the pores of harmful impurities that can contribute to breakouts, pigmentation and dull skin
• Tea Tree essential oil is a natural choice for anti-allergy and building immunity, keeping skin, hair and nails healthy. It may help treat certain skin conditions, including acne, itching, and oily skin.
• Lavender essential oil has pain relief and calming properties. It reduces irritation and relaxes breathing. Did you know Vitamin A is lavenders super power? Which helps boost skin collagen. It gently moisturises skin, and is non-comedogenic for pores. Lavender oil is naturally antibacterial, meaning that it kills acne-causing bacteria that might infiltrate your pores. This makes the purple flower perfect for preventing, calming, and healing painful acne breakouts.
• Frankincense essential oil is helpful for focus and aiding in relaxation and calmness.   With powerful anti-inflammatory properties, Frankincense Essential Oil is an effective natural remedy to calm the complexion. For irritated or damaged skin, Frankincense Oil restores the epidermis and calms affected areas. For sunburn, rosacea or breakouts, this healing element soothes and nourishes the skin. Can reduce fine lines and scar tissue as well as soothe blemishes and calm inflammation, with an earthy, woodsy aroma.
• Orange essential oil’s best used for a vitamin c boost, to calm anxiety and help regulate emotions with its uplifting effects. Helps promote clarity, fights inflammation and acne, and keeps our skin fresh.

A calm mind creates calm skin, using natural essential oils, not only smell great but can heal our mind and create a glowing skin that shows. Want to find out more about essential oils and skincare? Jade Shutes a clinical aromatherapist I am studying with has a brilliant podcast episode on this listen here

Final Thoughts on Mental and Skin Health

Managing chronic migraines and perioral dermatitis has been a journey, but by focusing on holistic care and integrating aromatherapy into my daily life, I’ve found relief. Stress can impact both your mind and your skin, but with the right mindset and support, healing is possible. By nourishing your mind, body, and skin with love and care, you can truly begin to feel your best.

Want to experience the calming power of essential oils for yourself? Check out my exclusive range of Breathe Calm, Live Calm, and Rest Calm blends to start your wellness journey today!

Sending healthy wishes and stress-free living your way!

I registered clinical aromatherapist with IFPA. Learn more about the healing properties of essential oils from the IFPA (International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists) or from Aromatic Studies an amazing school I qualified with Jade Shutes.