Stress is ever-present in most people’s lives whether at work, home, relationships and commuting through traffic. The effects of stress work secretly to weaken the body and mind, and the results are apparent by showing up on your skin. Skin disorders like acne, eczema, rosacea, blisters psoriasis and hives are all aggravated by stressful situations. The good news is that you have options to combat bad skin.
The Stress Phase
When you’re tense and the body gets stressed, a hormone called cortisol is released. This causes the skin to become dehydrated, sensitive, and it could lead to breakouts. Other side effects of stress include permanent wrinkles and premature aging. Repairing the problem is an internal and external solution.
Combating Breakouts
For an oily complexion that is prone to breakouts, exfoliation works to unclog bacteria-harboring pores. A product with lactic acid hydrates the skin as it gets rid of dead skin cells. A clay mask and salicylic acid gel to spot treat blemishes are other products to combat breakouts. Skin treatments like light therapy and glycolic acid peels will help brighten the skin and get rid of acne.
Relief from Dryness
If you have flaking, peeling, and dry skin, you are not alone. Women suffering from psychological stress find the skin may become dehydrated red and sensitive. Products that contain hyaluronic acid and ceramides help the skin to retain water.
How to Repair Wrinkles
Antioxidants that contain pomegranate extract and vitamin C help fight wrinkles caused by stress. Your physician can also recommend chemical peels and fractionated laser treatments to increase collagen production and rejuvenate the skin.
Lifestyle
Topical treatments may offer a temporary solution, but most experts agree that relaxing and drinking additional water are long-term ways to repair your skin and keep it looking youthful.
Manage Stress
The most critical step in stress reduction is determining the factors that trigger these feelings. Asking for help at work and home, taking a three day weekend, and setting aside time to relax are excellent ways to manage stress.
Healthy Diet
Being obsessive about perfection is a recipe for tension, and it will have you reaching for unhealthy foods like chips or brownies. Instead, you can program your body to choose healthy snacks like fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 will keep your complexion healthy and young.
Ways to Relax
You can also reduce stress and relax through massage therapy, Reiki, and yoga. Other experts advise visual imagery by focusing on things that make you happy and bring peace to your life.