Features - Aromatherapy and Stress Management in Dermatology

Aromatherapy, the ultimate stress-relieving therapy, offers fantastic potential for sufferers of many skin disorders in the hands of a professionally trained therapist. Two of the main tenets of the therapy - touch and aroma - have been shown to directly and positively affect skin health. Due to the close connections with the nervous system, human skin is acutely sensitive to emotional states, reddening for example as a result of embarrassment. Clinical observations have identified psychological stress as either precipitating, aggravating or prolonging many skin diseases and the psychosomatic aspects of many disorders have been researched in recent years.

It has been shown that psychological stress can disrupt recovery of the skin following damage to it. Interestingly, the use of sedative drugs has been shown to prevent this delay. It has also been demonstrated that some odours with sedative effects have a similar action. So, for aromatherapists using odorous plant materials - essential oils - the use of sedative oils can be used in those conditions that are aggravated by stress. Suggested oils include:

• lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobilis)
• marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
• sandalwood (Santalum album)
• vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)

There is evidence that stress causes inflammatory responses in the skin. At the same time there is a simultaneous decrease in anti-inflammatory reactions, thus worsening inflamed skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Stress may also lead to increased histamine release, resulting in skin itchiness and the notoriously distressing "itch-scratch cycle". Although itching can be a sign of specific disease and may be said to be an innate defensive mechanism for the body, all too often in skin diseases, itching seems to have no particular beneficial role but greatly adds to the psychological distress, not least because it seriously disrupts sleeping patterns.

Using targeted aromatic formulas for controlling itching can have a profound effect on the quality of life for sufferers where itch is a clinical feature. Classic anti-inflammatory essential oils are indicated:

• lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - this not only has an established  reputation as an effective anti-inflammatory, it is also proven to have an  inhibitory effect on histamine release.

• German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)

• yarrow (Achillea millefolium).

Undoubtedly the psychological impact of a disfiguring skin disease is profound and few would argue that the emotional state of an individual suffering from such a condition should be carefully monitored. However what many may be less aware of is the presence of psychosocial stress, which is experienced by those with relatively common and apparently "normal" skin conditions such as acne vulgaris. Surveys have shown that approximately 30 - 50% of juvenile acne sufferers experience lowered self-esteem and self-confidence, perceived social rejection, anxiety and depression. Psychosocial stress factors should be explored in treatment as a matter of priority, particularly in conditions where there is a degree of disfigurement, or where there is a distinct psychological component and especially where conventional treatments have proved either ineffective or of limited benefit. It almost goes without saying that this is where aromatherapy can play a significant therapeutic role.

Perhaps understandingly, those whose condition is most visually obvious or severe are affected more seriously and it has been found that facial disfigurement leads to patients experiencing lower career aspirations and having negative expectations about long-term relationships. It is also recognised that sufferers are more likely to play down the positive aspects of their appearance and personality, complying with restricted social standards when referring to attractiveness. For many, a heightened sense of body awareness and self-image can have a profound impact on their willingness to participate in activities such as swimming and sports.

Aromatherapy offers the following psychological benefits for sufferers of skin disorders:

• If used with massage, aromatherapy reduces the individuals' sense of  embarrassment about being touched and can enhance feelings of self-
esteem.

• By decreasing itching with correctly selected essential oils, a subsequent  reduction in the stress, embarrassment and anxiety associated with  itching is achieved.

• As an adjunct to pharmacological interventions, aromatherapy stress-
reduction techniques will decrease the need for medication.

• Using essential oils as mood-enhancers leads to a general improvement in  the overall health profile of an individual and immune modulation, relevant  in many immune-related skin disorders.

Aromatherapists will consider the following when formulating for dermatological care:

1. Wherever possible, essential oils are chosen to address both the physical symptoms and the psychological state.

2. If appropriate, sedative essential oils are used to limit the effects of psychological stress on skin.

3. There are strong associations between pleasing aromas and mood-
  enhancing effects and individual odour preferences are taken into account to improve psychological well-being.

4. The psychological benefits of aroma can be obtained through inhaling appropriate essential oils. Pocket diffusers are ideal for this.

5. Using formulas that are readily available can encourage a sense of individual control. For example, anti-itch creams can be easily self-applied.

6. Pleasantly smelling lotions and creams can dispel the myth of being unclean and untouchable which is associated with many skin disorders.

For many sufferers of skin disease, the symptoms themselves are distressing enough. Couple this with the psychologically distressing impact many conditions can have and there is a potentially devastating situation. Furthermore, conventional treatments are not always effective and in some notable cases, carry severe side-effects, adding to the stress and discomfort already experienced. Aromatherapy is certainly not a cure-all, but it can make a major contribution in the treatment of many skin disorders, not least because when thoughtfully devised, aromatherapy treatment strategies can have substantial psychological benefits.

Page created: 24 July 2006