Let’s first take a deep breath, shall we? Because, no matter the cause of your tension and stress, it can have a powerful impact on your mind and body. Of course, we hear all the time how stress can trigger anxiety, sleep trouble, hair loss, and the like, but did you know it can also be the culprit of your skin concerns? Unfortunately for all of us, it’s true! Emphasis on “for all of us” because if you have ever experienced this, you are not alone.
The Impact of Stress on Skin
To break it down simply, when we’re stressed, our bodies respond by producing extra stress hormones, including cortisol. This overproduction of cortisol can compromise your skin barrier, which is responsible for keeping moisture in and bacteria, allergens, and toxins out. A weakened skin barrier can, therefore, contribute to many of our not-so-appreciated skin struggles.
These problems include but aren’t limited to:
- Worsened skin conditions. Stress alone is aggravating but it can also exacerbate rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and other conditions that only worsen the experience.
- Increased sensitivity and irritation. Redness, itching, and even rashes can pop up when skin is feeling the repercussions of stress.
- Breakouts. Since hormones shift when you’re feeling tense, stress-induced oils, pimples, blackheads, and more can become a real struggle.
- Visible signs of aging. The stress response can also contribute to reduced elasticity, which often results in lines, wrinkles, and loss of volume.
- Dry, dull complexion. While some individuals produce excess oil when stressed, lackluster skin caused by dryness and dullness is an alternate stubborn side effect for others.
How to Prevent Stressed Skin
Of course, getting to the crux of what’s causing your stress is an important first step in helping to quell its effects. Making a habit of destressing through a variety of activities is key to avoid triggering your body’s stress response.
- Practice self-care. Winding down after a long day with a bubble bath, good book, or calming cup of tea can allow for peaceful moments to let go of anything you may have bottled up throughout the day.
- Maintain a healthy sleep schedule. Sleeping at set hours each night and catching enough quality Zzzs can also help you combat stress and even contribute to balanced, glowing skin. Tip: try spraying your linens with some lavender spray before bed to help lull you to sleep.
- Exercise. Getting your endorphins flowing regularly can also help you destress so you can feel as good as you look.
- Try yoga & meditation. Mindfulness practices are an excellent way to release stress to promote calmness and overall emotional wellness.
- Eat a balanced diet. Eating healthy can support your immune system and give you the energy necessary to properly cope with everyday stressors.
- Cut caffeine. Since caffeine elevates your blood pressure, it can also increase your stress and anxiety levels.
- Socialize. Spending time with friends and family who bring you peace is a surefire way to let go of some of that built-up tension.
- Get regular sunlight. Getting some vitamin D daily is linked to an increase in serotonin, which can be just the mood-boost you need each day. Don’t forget your SPF, of course!
- Never skip your skincare routine. Sticking to a simple yet effective skincare regimen that actually supports your skin barrier is a crucial step in easing the burden on your skin.
Stress Less About the Perfect Regimen
Our four-step regimen does just that by delivering gentle exfoliation and intense moisture at every step. This combination is the secret to maintaining a healthy, nourished barrier and a balanced pH.
All that to say, with the right skincare regimen and a few healthy habits, you can stress less about stressed skin.
