Taking care of yourself can include things that make a positive difference in your appearance. What if you could feel and look better after taking a few minutes to look after your own needs? There is scientific evidence that supports the benefits of self-care, which includes grooming, hygiene, and dressing well. Here are three paragraphs that summarize some of the findings:

• Self-care can reduce stress and improve mood. Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, improve concentration, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, and improve energy¹. One of the ways that self-care does this is by activating the reward system in the brain, which releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that makes us feel good³. Another way is by enhancing our self-esteem and self-confidence, which can positively affect our social and professional interactions⁴.
• Self-care can prevent or treat physical illnesses. From a physical health perspective, self-care has also been clinically proven to reduce heart disease, stroke, and cancer². This is because self-care can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation, which are risk factors for these diseases. Moreover, self-care can boost the immune system, which helps fight off infections and diseases. Additionally, self-care can improve the appearance and function of the skin, hair, nails, and teeth, which can prevent or treat dermatological, dental, and fungal problems.
• Self-care can promote healthy habits and behaviors. By taking care of our appearance, we are more likely to take care of other aspects of our health, such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, and relaxation. These habits and behaviors can further enhance our well-being and quality of life. For example, eating a balanced diet can provide us with essential nutrients and antioxidants, exercising regularly can improve our cardiovascular and muscular fitness, sleeping enough can restore our energy and memory, and relaxing can calm our mind and body.

Here is one example of a way to self-care while taking care of your appearance!

Citations:

¹: Why is Self-Care Important? | SNHU ²: Self-care: 4 ways to nourish body and soul - Harvard Health ³: The Science of Self-Care: How to Build Your Evidence-Based Action Plan ⁴: The Psychology of Dressing Well (And Why You Must To Get Anywhere In Life) : The Effects of Stress on Your Body : How to boost your immune system : The Importance of Personal Hygiene : How to encourage student self-care - American Psychological Association : How and Why to Practice Self-care - Mental Health First Aid