Can your zodiac sign influence your skin?

As I was flipping through the pages of the latest Women’s Health magazine (I know I’m old school with my paperback magazines), I came across an alluring article in the “Beauty & Skin” section, with pretty images titled “What Your Zodiac Sign Can Tell You About Your Skin.”

From what I gathered, this unique approach is based on the four elements: earth, air, water and fire relating to the zodiac sign and each element coincides with a specific skin condition.

I was instantly fascinated as it was my first time hearing about this technique, and also because I’m very open to astrology.

Could basing your skin-care routine off your zodiac sign be the next big beauty trend? I had to find out, which of course led me to writing and wanting to share this article on such an uncommon, yet interesting concept.

The article I stumbled across written by Kristina Rodulfo, discussed the connection between your zodiac sign and specific skin conditions.

It all started for Kristina after a unique visit to her aesthetician, when she was asked “what’s your sign?” during a facial.

She was just as shocked as I was while reading this article after being asked such an uncommon question by her aesthetician.

And although this may be the first time you're hearing about this skincare approach, there are many other wellness professionals out there who practise(d) this or use it themselves at home.

Take Dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD for example — she is one professional “who identifies with her own astrological profile.

This technique may seem far-fetched to some, however Dr. Henry and many others have seen great results.

A second opinion from Astrologer Aliza Kelly — who also agrees with this concept, explains in the same article that these four elements “may manifest different issues” and goes on to say “your skin reflects what’s going on in your world, after all — anticipating a big life event is known to spike cortisol and lead to breakouts.”

Want to find out your skin issues according to your zodiac sign?

Look no further! Below are Dr.Henry’s solutions — straight from Women’s Health, for those stubborn skin troubles, based off the elements of your sign:

EARTH: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

Issue: clogged pores

If you feel yourself grasping onto things longer than you should (maybe a situation from your past or a material object), you could be exuding the earth element.

“Earth signs are more pragmatic and grounded,” Kelly says. “Earth is about retaining things. They want to anchor themselves in the physical world. Earth has a hoarding quality.” And the last place you want dirt and grime to get comfy and stay awhile? Your pores.

Solution: “A facial with extractions may be the most immediate fix,” Dr. Henry suggests. You can also look for classic pore strips, a scrub, or a gentle at-home extracting tool. As for ingredients, you’ll want to seek out salicylic acid, bamboo powder, and using a prescription retinoid long-term to “reduce the appearance of clogged pores by regulating and encouraging skin turnover.”

AIR: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Issue: dryness

When your social calendar is particularly busy, you may be putting out air-element vibes.“Air signs are inherently social. Air can make fires blaze and create waves in the water — they’re always thinking about how they can fuel others and elevate other elements,” Kelly says. But when you give so much, it may leave you high and dry — literally.

Solution: “Adopt and stick to a skincare regimen that includes moisturizing the skin at least once a day with something really hydrating. Look for rich creams that contain ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid,” Dr. Henry suggests. Ceramides are the glue that sticks your skin together while hyaluronic acid absorbs moisture to the skin.

WATER: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Issue: sensitivity

So you’ve been tapping into your compassion recently, maybe providing support for a friend or just because you’re “in your feelings.” You could be swimming in water energy. “Water signs are associated with intuition, empathy, and compassion,” Kelly describes. “Water energy relates to the world at large.” That sensitivity, however, might translate to overly reactive skin prone to redness and flushing.

Solution: “Look for mineral-based products that are less likely to cause a reaction. Prepare your skin with a great moisturizer to strengthen your skin’s barrier,” Dr. Henry elaborates. Make sure to also avoid fragrance, abrasive cleansers, and harsh astringents. Simplifying your routine to fewer steps and hypoallergenic products is your best bet.

FIRE: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Issue: inflammation

“Fire is all about motivation and stop-at-nothing energy,” says Kelly. And if you’re hella stressed (say, into another galaxy?), an unfortunate side effect — or two — can be blotchy, inflamed, and red skin or rashes. You’ll need something neutralizing.

Solution: “Find topical treatments with soothing ingredients,” Dr. Henry advises. “Licorice root, cucumber, and niacinamide all help to reduce redness.” If your inflammation is more like acne, Dr. Henry says one short-term solution is to use a spot treatment that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to quickly kill a pimple.

I personally think this could be a great new approach to treating your skin, especially if you haven’t seen the results you want using other products or techniques.

And who knows, this may be the next big skin-care trend! So why not jump on the bandwagon early and try using these simple tips above to improve your skin? I know I’m going to!