Stress & Skin Health - The Connection, The Remedy

An undeniable connection between stress and our skin has been established to exist. Weather we like it or not, high levels of stress impacts our skin negatively. This is because when our bodies undergo stress, it releases high levels of the 'stress hormone' cortisol which then leads to an overproduction of sebum (oil) in your skin glands, which causes acne breakouts.

Additionally, stress impacts your immune system, causes your skin to be more reactive and sensitive, and triggers rashes, hives, and redness. Stress may also cause you to feel nervous or anxious, and subconsciously pick at scabs or acne, or scratch your skin until it becomes red or breaks.

THE GOOD NEWS:

There are several at-home remedies to help ease the effect of stress on your skin, they include but not limited to;

1. Maintaining a good skin care routine every day, even on days when you feel worn out or anxious. Do not skip your skincare routines. If you're overworked or mentally drained, you may feel unbothered about taking off your makeup, exfoliating. Make a conscious effort to take off makeup, cleanse and moisturize before bed. Try to stick with your routine always, because neglect could worsen your skin issues.

2. Even though it might be difficult for someone experiencing high levels of stress, try get enough sleep. Sleep gives your body the time it needs to rest and heal, releases relaxing hormones which in turn improves your mood, energy levels, cognition and combat stress.

3. Eat a healthy, balanced diet with whole foods and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Processed and sugar-laden foods trigger more inflammation inside your body leading to/worsening skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, etc.

4. Create time for yourself and be intentional about it. Find the time to engage in a relaxing, re-energizing activities that truly make you happy – , get a massage, a facial, listen to music, read a book, do weekend getaways, spend time with people that make you happy, take a warm bath/ soak, meditate if you can, and even practice deep breathing exercises. These activities releases serotonin - the happy/mood stabilizing; hormone.

It is almost impossible to live stress free in our bustling world today, but it can be managed.

If your stress levels are still very high even after everything, you might want to reevaluate your working conditions or whatever is responsible for the stress. , You can also explore talking to to someone if stress is having a negative impact on your health and well-being. Confide in a trusted friend, family member, therapist or spiritual counselor. Even just knowing you have someone by your side can help you feel stronger in your capability to handle stress.

#LiveStressFree