People struggle with their appearance for a variety of reasons, and these struggles can sometimes be described using terms like self-image or body image. Problems with one’s appearance can stem from a variety of factors, such as gender dysphoria, weight, low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, and disability, to mention a few. Continue reading for advice on how to feel more confident in your own skin.
Cognitive Therapy
One of the most damaging things a person can face is having a negative self-image. A distorted body image is characterized by a self-critical pattern of thinking. In most cases, this constant internal criticism exacerbates feelings of deep shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
As a result, people who have a negative body image may feel discouraged from seeking help. Instead, they’re convinced that their core self-beliefs are correct and reasonable. If you’re struggling with body image issues, seeking help from a mental health professional may be beneficial.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that is commonly used to help people who are having problems with their body image. These negative thought patterns can be identified and replaced with more realistic thoughts with the assistance of a compassionate CBT therapist. Through cognitive restructuring, CBT therapy also assists a person in learning which perceptions of self are true and which are the result of an unhealthy development of their self-esteem.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure, meaning that it uses no anesthesia or surgical instruments to target stubborn pockets of fat. The majority of this excess fat is concentrated around the abdomen, jawline, inner thighs, flank, bra fat, and upper arms. CoolSculpting, as the name implies, involves the use of cold temperatures to freeze fat cells.
Fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis, works because fat cells are more sensitive to cold temperatures than other cells. As a result, the cold sensation felt during the sculpting process does not affect the surrounding cells, only the target area. CoolSculpting San Diego sessions typically last 35 to 60 minutes, but this can vary depending on the treatment area.
Because CoolSculpting is a non-surgical body procedure, you won’t need to take time off work to recover. However, you may experience mild side effects such as discomfort, soreness—similar to how you’d feel after an intense workout—and tingling.
It’s also worth noting that each CoolSculpting procedure is unique because treatment is tailored to the specific areas you want to target. Fortunately, during your initial consultation, the CoolSculpting specialist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns.
Tattoo Removal
Tattoos are one of the oldest forms of body modification. While some tattoos can be a great form of self-expression and beauty, you’re allowed to outgrow them at some point. If you no longer like your artwork, tattoo removal can help.
Laser tattoo removal treatments gradually fade the tattoo until it is completely removed. Although you may require a couple of sessions, a reputable tattoo artist or med spa dermatologist works with you to ensure that the fade is adequate. Even if the ink on your old tattoo has faded out and looks horrible, laser sessions can fade it well enough to cover it completely.
Interventions such as behavior therapy and medspa treatments are just examples of professional treatments that can help you improve your sense of self. While these treatments may produce short-term results, the ultimate indicator of a better sense of self is the inner dialogue we have with ourselves. Having said that, consider your inner dialogue. How do you speak to yourself? Are you nice to yourself? Would you speak to a trusted friend or someone you care about in the same way you speak to yourself? If not, let’s start there.
