Earth & The Beauty Effect: Grounding and Facial Circulation

Can the simple act of touching the Earth improve your complexion? Can it make you.. sessy? Recent thermography research (see the Earth & Heart Series) suggests it might. In a 2015 pilot study, researchers had volunteers spend one hour grounded (in contact with the Earth via conductive mats) and measured their skin with thermal imaging (One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study). The grounded participants showed significantly increased blood flow in their faces and torsos compared to a control group. This enhanced circulation delivered more blood (and thus oxygen and nutrients) to facial tissues, which the authors noted could boost skin repair, health, and vitality, essentially improving facial appearance. This observed beauty effect of grounding – healthier skin tone and potential rejuvenation – was attributed to improved blood distribution and fluid regulation in the body.

These findings build on earlier work using advanced blood-flow imaging. In 2014, a study employed Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI) to visualize real-time microcirculation in the face. The LSCI data revealed that when subjects were grounded, facial capillary blood flow immediately increased relative to non-grounded (sham) subjects (One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study). Grounded individuals exhibited stronger rhythmic blood flow fluctuations, indicating better autonomic nervous system control of circulation. In short, grounding appeared to rapidly improve facial circulation and vascular regulation, whereas no such change was seen in the ungrounded controls. Together, the thermal imaging and LSCI studies (both part of research led by Gaétan Chevalier and colleagues) demonstrate that even brief contact with the Earth can markedly affect facial blood perfusion – a key factor in skin nourishment – with implications for beauty and skin health.

The Growing Demand for Natural Skincare Solutions

The allure of healthier, younger-looking skin drives a massive global industry. The skincare market is valued at over $115 billion as of 2024 and is climbing steadily. By 2032 it is projected to approach $200 billion. A notable trend in this market is the surge in natural and organic products. Consumers have become wary of harsh chemicals and are seeking out creams, tallows, and serums with botanically derived ingredients. Companies are responding by launching “clean” product lines free of parabens and sulfates, and highlighting herbal extracts and vitamins in their formulas. This shift reflects a broader desire for gentle, health-conscious skincare – a desire that grounding, which is literally an all-natural practice, directly speaks to.

Another major driver of skincare is the anti-aging segment. As populations age (and as even younger consumers adopt “prejuvenation” routines), interest in anti-wrinkle and age-defying treatments is booming. The global market for anti-aging products was about $48 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach over $76 billion by 2031. Surveys indicate approximately 62% of Americans use anti-aging products in their daily regimen (Anti-Ageing Products Market Size, Analysis, Trends, Report By 2031) which reflects how commonplace wrinkle creams, firming serums, and similar products have become. Clearly, people are investing in solutions to keep their skin looking youthful. They are also increasingly interested in approaches that are both effective and free of side effects – which helps explain the rising enthusiasm for natural remedies and lifestyle-based interventions.

Wrinkles: A Top Cosmetic Concern

It’s no surprise that wrinkles rank among the chief cosmetic concerns for adults. The appearance of lines, creases, and other signs of aging skin can cause significant worry. For instance, a clinical skin study noted that facial wrinkles, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone are major beauty concerns across different ethnic groups (Appearance of aging signs in differently pigmented facial skin by a novel imaging system - PubMed). In consumer surveys, wrinkles consistently top the list of things people would change about their appearance. According to a 2023 dermatologic survey of over 7,000 people, 79% were bothered by lines and wrinkles around the eyes – making it one of the most frequently reported cosmetic complaints (New Survey Results Showcase Dermatologists as the Primary).

Beyond just vanity, such concerns reflect how wrinkles can affect self-esteem and confidence. Modern lifestyles (stress, chemicals, pollution etc) often accelerate skin aging, so many individuals start noticing fine lines in their 20s and 30s. The prevalence of these concerns has fueled a huge demand for anti-wrinkle solutions – from creams to clinical procedures – as people look for ways to smooth their skin. It also underscores why a simple, side-effect-free practice like grounding is intriguing: if connecting to the Earth can even modestly reduce or delay wrinkles by improving skin health, it addresses a very widespread desire.

Conventional Anti-Aging Treatments: Benefits and Limitations

In the quest to combat wrinkles and other signs of aging, there is no shortage of treatments. Non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures have become extremely popular. Chief among these is Botox (botulinum toxin) injections, which temporarily relax facial muscles to soften wrinkles. In fact, botulinum toxin injections are the number-one cosmetic procedure worldwide, with about 8.8 million Botox treatments performed in 2023 alone (And the 2023 Winner Is … Botulinum Toxin Injections Top ISAPS’ List of the Most Popular Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures in the World - The Dermatology Digest). Other injectable treatments like dermal fillers (e.g. hyaluronic acid fillers) are also common for plumping sagging skin. These procedures typically require little to no downtime and can produce noticeable improvements. However, their effects are temporary (a Botox injection lasts around 3–4 months), meaning people often undergo repeat sessions. There are also side effects to consider: even though Botox is generally considered safe, it can cause bruising, headaches, flu-like symptoms, or even transient eyelid drooping in some users (https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/botulinum-toxin/safety#:~:text=Although%20generally%20safe%2C%20botulinum%20toxin,effects%20and%20complications%20can%20include)). Approximately one in six Botox users report minor complications such as bruising or “frozen” facial expressions. While serious adverse events are very rare, the fact remains that these treatments involve injecting a toxin or gel into the skin – a prospect that makes some individuals uncomfortable.

Dermatologists and cosmetic clinics also offer a range of laser and energy-based treatments for aging skin. Fractional laser resurfacing, for example, uses intense laser pulses to vaporize tiny columns of skin which stimulates collagen renewal. Such treatments can produce great results in reducing fine lines and sun damage. On the downside, laser procedures often come with downtime. Patients can experience significant redness, swelling, and peeling for days or weeks as the skin heals ( Wrinkles - PMC ). There is a risk of complications like hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or, rarely, scarring if the laser settings are too aggressive or if proper aftercare isn’t followed. Even less intense treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion can leave skin temporarily irritated or sensitive. Essentially, many high-tech anti-aging procedures walk a fine line: they create controlled injury to spur skin regeneration, which means results come at the cost of some discomfort and risk.

At the more extreme end are invasive surgical procedures such as facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid surgeries. These can dramatically tighten and rejuvenate the face by excising excess skin and repositioning tissues. Yet surgery carries the highest risks – including infection, significant swelling/bruising, anesthesia complications – and demands lengthy recovery. Surgical facelifts also are expensive and not accessible or desirable for everyone.

In light of these limitations – cost, side effects, impermanence – there’s growing interest in complementary approaches. The idea isn’t necessarily to replace Botox or lasers, but to find safer adjuncts or alternatives that can enhance skin naturally with minimal risk. Grounding falls into this category: a non-invasive, no-cost practice that might help skin from the inside out, by influencing physiological processes such as inflammation, stress, and circulation.

Skin Aging and the Role of Oxidative Stress

Why does our skin develop wrinkles and lose its glow as we age? A major piece of the puzzle is oxidative stress – essentially, damage caused by reactive molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals (like reactive oxygen species, ROS) are generated in our skin every day due to ultraviolet (UV) sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and normal metabolism. When ROS levels rise, they can attack cellular components like membranes, proteins, and even DNA. In skin, this often means breaking down collagen and elastin fibers – the scaffolding that keeps skin firm and smooth. For instance, UV-induced ROS activate molecular pathways (such as the AP-1 transcription factor) that ramp up production of enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) ( Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin - PMC ). MMPs chew up collagen and elastin in the skin’s dermis. Over time, repeated sun exposure and oxidative stress lead to a net loss of these supportive fibers, causing the skin to thin and wrinkles to form more easily.

The good news is that antioxidants can help neutralize ROS before they wreak havoc. Our bodies naturally produce some antioxidants, and we can also deliver them via diet or skincare. Vitamin C is one antioxidant superstar for the skin: it not only helps mop up free radicals, but also is a co-factor in collagen synthesis. Studies show that topical vitamin C can improve signs of photodamage – likely by quenching UV-generated ROS and boosting new collagen formation ( Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin - PMC ). Similarly, resveratrol, a polyphenol found in red grape skins (and red wine), has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In skin cells, resveratrol has been shown to activate the Nrf2 pathway, which increases the production of our own protective antioxidants like glutathione, ultimately improving skin quality and reducing oxidative stress in the skin ( Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin - PMC ). Both vitamin C and resveratrol are now common ingredients in anti-aging creams and serums. By fighting free radicals, these ingredients aim to preserve the skin’s structural proteins and prevent the cellular damage that leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness.

It’s interesting to note that grounding ties into this oxidative stress picture as well. The Earth’s surface is a vast reservoir of free electrons. When we are in direct contact, these electrons can enter the body and act like antioxidants, neutralizing positively charged free radicals. This could reduce acute and chronic inflammation in the skin (since oxidative stress is a trigger for inflammatory pathways). The antioxidant effect of grounding is one mechanism for its health benefits. By supplying the electrons that calm oxidation, it could help protect skin cells from ROS damage much like a nutritional supplement would – but delivered through the simple act of touching the Earth.

Blood Flow: The Lifeline of Healthy Skin

Skin health isn’t just about fighting external damage; it’s also about nourishment from within. Our skin is fed and cleansed by an intricate network of tiny blood vessels (the microcirculation) that deliver oxygen and nutrients and carry away waste. Robust blood flow is literally the lifeblood of a glowing complexion. When your circulation is good, skin tends to look plump, hydrated, and rosy (in a youthful way). When circulation is poor, the skin can appear dull, pale or ashy, and is slower to heal or renew itself. Notably, aging is associated with a decline in microcirculation. Research shows that blood flow to the skin can decrease by up to 40% between the ages of 20 and 70 ( A Microcirculatory Theory of Aging - PMC ). Fewer capillaries and sluggish circulation mean skin cells receive less oxygen and fewer nutrients over time. This reduction in perfusion may contribute to the slower cell turnover, dryness, and loss of elasticity seen in older skin.

Conversely, improving skin circulation can yield visible benefits. Even simple measures like facial massage or exercise (which increases blood flow) are known to temporarily boost skin radiance. In the long term, supporting the microvasculature could help maintain healthier skin structure. If capillaries are delivering nutrients efficiently, the skin’s fibroblast cells can produce collagen and elastin more effectively, and epidermal cells can turnover and repair. On the flip side, chronically impaired microcirculation may accelerate skin aging. One study suggested that poor blood supply to the skin, by starving cells of oxygen and nutrients, can hasten the development of wrinkles ([PDF] Importance of skin microcirculation - ResearchGate). Essentially, if the skin’s “supply lines” falter, the tissue cannot maintain itself well. This insight has even led some experts to propose boosting microcirculation as a strategy for anti-aging skincare.

Given this connection, the effects of grounding on blood flow are especially relevant. If grounding enhances circulation, it could indirectly promote better skin cell nutrition and waste removal. The 2014 grounding study in particular pointed out improved vasomotor regulation – meaning the autonomic nerves and vessel walls were coordinating blood flow more dynamically in grounded individuals (One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study). Improved vasomotor tone can ensure that skin gets blood when and where it’s needed, such as during healing or in response to temperature changes. Many conventional skin treatments don’t address blood flow at all – they work on the surface or via chemical signals. Grounding, however, might literally “go with the flow,” increasing the circulation that underpins skin health. Importantly, it does this without any drugs or devices, just by leveraging the body’s own electrical and circulatory systems through Earth contact.

Grounding as a Free Skincare Alternative

Imagine a skincare therapy that costs nothing, is available to everyone, and has zero side effects. Grounding offers just that. By simply walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand – or using inexpensive grounding mats or sheets indoors – a person can connect their body electrically to the Earth. Unlike a cream or procedure, grounding doesn’t involve applying anything to the skin; instead, it subtly influences internal physiology in ways that benefit the skin. We’ve seen that one immediate effect is increased blood circulation in the face. Over time, better circulation means better delivery of vitamins, minerals, and immune cells to skin tissues, which could enhance the skin’s regenerative capacity. Grounding has also been reported to reduce inflammation by moderating the immune response and cortisol levels. Since chronic, low-level inflammation is a known contributor to skin aging (sometimes called “inflammaging”), reducing that inflammation could help preserve youthful skin qualities.

Another intriguing aspect is stress reduction. Grounding appears to activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” mode) and stabilize the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for fight-or-flight). In one experiment (see Earth & Mind), grounded subjects showed improved heart rate variability, indicating a shift toward calm, parasympathetic dominance. Why does this matter for the skin? Because psychological stress is infamous for aggravating skin conditions (like acne, eczema, and yes, even aging). High stress can delay wound healing and break down collagen via stress hormones. By promoting relaxation and lowering stress markers, grounding can create a hormonal and biochemical environment in which the skin can flourish. It essentially adds a holistic dimension to skincare – treating the mind-body connection that conventional creams don’t touch.

Perhaps the most compelling argument for grounding as a beauty practice is that it’s accessible. Not everyone can afford regular facials or dermatologist treatments, but everyone has access to the Earth in some form. Whether it’s a daily barefoot walk in the backyard, a meditation lying on a grounded sheet, or occasional grounding sessions at a local park, these practices are simple and can be integrated into one’s lifestyle. They also come with side benefits (hehe): people who practice regular grounding often report improved sleep, reduced pain, and better mood – factors which themselves can translate to a healthier appearance (think of how skin glows after a good night’s sleep or a stress-free vacation). Grounding essentially treats the body as an integrated system, in contrast to many beauty treatments that focus narrowly on the skin’s surface.

Real-Time Evidence: Grounding’s Impact on Facial Circulation

One of the most visual demonstrations of grounding’s potential in skincare comes from real-time imaging of the face. The 2014 LSCI study mentioned earlier allowed scientists to watch the blood flow in subjects’ faces in real time. In those experiments, participants sat comfortably while ultra-sensitive cameras detected the speckle patterns of moving red blood cells under the skin. The difference between the grounded and ungrounded individuals was striking. Grounded subjects showed dynamic blood perfusion: facial blood flow increased and oscillated in healthy waves which indicated robust microvascular function. In contrast, the control subjects (who were not actually grounded, though they wore identical equipment) showed relatively stagnant microcirculation with fewer changes. The LSCI images essentially put a spotlight on the skin’s smallest blood vessels – and grounding caused them to light up with activity.

Quantitatively, the grounded group experienced significant improvements in several circulation metrics. The researchers noted that blood flow in the face became more symmetrical and well-regulated after grounding (areas that were cooler due to poor circulation warmed up, balancing with the rest of the face). There was also evidence of baroreflex-like activity in the blood flow of grounded subjects – meaning the natural rhythms that help regulate blood pressure and flow were more pronounced, a sign of a responsive vascular system. Such regulation is normally associated with overall cardiovascular health and was enhanced by grounding. What this translates to for the skin is more even perfusion: all areas of the face getting adequate blood supply. Poor circulation can cause certain spots (for example, under the eyes or around the cheeks) to be under-nourished, potentially leading to dark circles or a patchy complexion. Grounding seems to counteract that by improving circulation everywhere. The thermal imaging data from 2015 backed this up, showing increased skin temperature (a proxy for blood flow) uniformly across the face in grounded individuals, but little change in controls.

It’s worth noting that these changes happened with just one hour of grounding. The subjects didn’t use any cosmetics or special techniques – they simply relaxed while being grounded via a wire to the Earth. The speed of the effect suggests it’s an immediate physiological response. Blood viscosity decreases (grounding is known to increase zeta potential on red blood cells, making them repel each other and flow better), and local circulation reflexes improve. For someone seeking healthier skin, this is exciting: it implies that even occasional grounding sessions could temporarily boost facial blood flow, perhaps giving the skin a nourished, post-facial kind of glow naturally. Regular grounding, then, might sustain better circulation long-term, which could support ongoing skin health. The real-time imaging provides concrete, visible evidence that grounding directly impacts the physiology of the skin in ways that are usually associated with a youthful, healthy complexion.

Conclusion

Modern skincare often focuses on products and procedures, but the research on grounding invites us to consider a broader approach – one that involves reconnecting with Earth’s electrical energy to nurture our skin from the inside out. Pioneering scientists like Gaétan Chevalier have highlighted grounding’s ability to “rejuvenate” facial skin naturally by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. In practical terms, grounding could be the missing lifestyle element in our beauty routines: much like we consider diet, sleep, and exercise as part of caring for our skin, we can now add grounding to that list.

Importantly, grounding is accessible and free. It offers an equal-opportunity wellness tool that doesn’t favor those who can spend on luxury creams or spa treatments. You can do it on a beach, in your garden, or any place where it’s safe to get barefoot or touch the Earth. While it might sound almost too easy, the science we have so far and common sense we’ve applied lends credibility to the practice. Think of grounding as giving your body a chance to reset and rebalance its electrical and circulatory systems, which in turn reflects in your skin. Of course, grounding is not a magic overnight wrinkle cure, and it shouldn’t be viewed as a replacement for medically needed treatments. But as an everyday wellness habit, it holds promise for improving skin health naturally along with providing general health benefits.

In a world where the beauty industry is overflowing with high-tech devices and expensive elixirs, the concept of the Earth itself being a beauty aid is refreshing and fascinating. Sometimes the most profound solutions are elegantly simple. As research continues, we may find that the path to healthier skin isn’t only in a bottle – it might also be right beneath our feet. Grounding, with its ability to enhance blood flow, calm inflammation, and reduce stress, offers a holistic complement to conventional skincare. Embracing it could mean not just more radiant skin, but a healthier body and mind to go along with that outer glow. And that is a truly beautiful effect.

Until next time. As always, if you’re interested in learning more about grounding, check out Earth & Water.

Further Reading:

Chevalier G., Melvin G., Barsotti T. (2015). One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow — A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study. Health 7(8):1022–1059 (One-Hour Contact with the Earth’s Surface (Grounding) Improves Inflammation and Blood Flow—A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pilot Study).

Fortune Business Insights. (2025). Skincare Market Size, Share & Trends, 2025-2032. Retrieved from Fortune Business Insights report summary (Skincare Market Size, Share, Trends | Growth Analysis [2032]) (Skincare Market Size, Share, Trends | Growth Analysis [2032]).

Data Bridge Market Research. (2023). Global Anti-Ageing Products Market Analysis, 2023-2031. (Market report highlights) (Anti-Ageing Products Market Size, Analysis, Trends, Report By 2031) (Anti-Ageing Products Market Size, Analysis, Trends, Report By 2031).

Campiche R., et al. (2019). Appearance of aging signs in differently pigmented facial skin by a novel imaging system. J. Cosmet. Dermatol. 18(2):614–627 (Appearance of aging signs in differently pigmented facial skin by a novel imaging system - PubMed).

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). (2023). 2023 ASDS Consumer Survey on Cosmetic Dermatologic Procedures. (Press release, Sept 25, 2023) (New Survey Results Showcase Dermatologists as the Primary).

International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). (2024). Global Survey Results for 2023 – Cosmetic Procedures Worldwide. ISAPS Press Release (cited in Dermatology Digest, June 13, 2024) (And the 2023 Winner Is … Botulinum Toxin Injections Top ISAPS’ List of the Most Popular Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures in the World - The Dermatology Digest).American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Botulinum Toxin – Risks and Safety Information. Retrieved 2024 from plasticsurgery.org ([

Botulinum Toxin Risks and Safety | American Society of Plastic Surgeons ](https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/botulinum-toxin/safety#:~:text=Although%20generally%20safe%2C%20botulinum%20toxin,effects%20and%20complications%20can%20include)).

Manríquez J.J., Majerson D., Diaz C.N. (2008). Wrinkles. BMJ Clinical Evidence 2008:1711 (systematic review) ( Wrinkles - PMC ).

Rinnerthaler M., Bischof J., Streubel M.K., et al. (2015). Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin. Biomolecules 5(2):545–589 ( Oxidative Stress in Aging Human Skin - PMC )

Jin K. (2019). A Microcirculatory Theory of Aging. Aging and Disease 10(3):676–683 ( A Microcirculatory Theory of Aging - PMC ).

Madvin J., Khalid M. (2021). How Localized Grounding, Combined with Conductive Skincare, Improves the Outcomes of Traditional Skincare?. Eur. J. Med. & Health Sciences 3(4):1–5 ([How Localized Grounding, Combined with Conductive Skincare, Improves the Outcomes of the Traditional Skincare? | European Journal of Medical and Health Sciences (https://www.ej-med.org/index.php/ejmed/article/view/935#:~:text=observable,possible%20implications%20for%20overall%20health)).