Stress has become a constant part of our life today. We all have heard that beauty is what reflects inside out and skin being the largest part of it is greatly affected by our lifestyle. Though skincare products, serums, and oils help nourish our skin and keep it healthy that might not be sufficient. Balanced, healthy nutrient intake and a calm mind are also essential for maintaining skin health. Stress is a major factor that can disrupt the cycle of youthful skin by impairing hormonal balance. Stress can elevate cortisol levels in the body causing an outbreak of multiple skin issues. Lifestyle, diet, and skin do have a major role to play in maintaining skin health but stress has been witnessed to be the major cause of skin irritation, rashes, and aggravating other skin concerns. Stress can be of different types and can hamper the skin in different ways. Let us have a look at them:
-
Stress due to Sun Exposure
The sun is a factor that can physically stress out the skin, as the skin can become weak whilst fighting with the strong UV radiation and protecting skin from its damage. As skin cells absorb UV radiation they signal the blood cells to rush and repair the exposed area. Thus, overexposure stresses out skin cells and can also lead to skin problems like blemishes, tanning, pigmentation or freckles. The best way to combat the stress caused by sun exposure is by using sunscreen in daily routine. If the skin is too dry one can apply face oils that can fight sun damage like peppermint oil, lemongrass oil, olive oil, etc. Incorporate food items rich in antioxidants and vitamin C as they also possess the cell-protecting ability and prevent free radical damage done by sun exposure. -
Inflammatory Skin Conditions and Irritated Skin
Various skin problems like eczema, rosacea, dermatitis, hives, and psoriasis are the results of inflamed skin. The skin’s protective ability will be compromised when the brain goes into overdrive during this condition. Stress can add to the problem and can make it difficult to regulate and keep a balance. It can result in a flare-up of conditions as well as leading to extra breakouts. To treat or control this condition one needs to understand the cause of a flare-up; is it allergy or bad product or stress and then eliminate the cause accordingly. One can tame the stress with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet and add on therapies and exercise to control stress like avoiding artificial food sweeteners, fried and junk food, opting for yoga and meditation and opt for homemade healthy food items. -
Elevated Oil Production and Acne Breakout
Most of us would have suffered from acne development due to stress. We all are aware that stress is related to acne breakouts as it can lead to hormonal imbalances in the body causing aggravated oil production resulting in acne. While stress cannot be eliminated from life opt for the measures to reduce it gradually to improve the condition. We can opt for stress management therapies. To treat acne occurring due to stress, proper investigations can be done to keep a check on hormonal imbalance and follow proper medication to keep them under control. Consult a dermatologist who can help with topical medications and oral medications to treat acne. There are also treatment options available to give relief in the present condition quicker and faster. -
Hair Loss
This can also be one of the results of stress. Though there are multiple other reasons for hair loss, before beginning its treatment, it’s advisable to meet a dermatologist and rule out other causes like hormonal imbalance, dandruff and nutritional deficiency to treat hair loss. Be more consistent with a balanced diet and regular workout to manage stress. Add all kinds of fruits and vegetables to daily meals. -
Sensitive Skin
As stress increases the release of cortisol hormone it can lead to thinning of the skin as well. This is because cortisol can breakdown proteins that help form the skin structure making it more prone to tearing and bruising. -
Delayed Wound Healing
In case of stress, skin layers can weaken and lose its ability to self heal quickly. This increases its risk of infection and allergies. To keep skin healthy repair the skin barrier and use hyaluronic acid and glycerine to keep skin hydrated and nourished. -
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Stress can fasten the ageing process causing premature ageing. Stress can speed up the collagen breakdown process and also reduces its production due to hormonal imbalance which can result in the appearance of signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. -
Dark Circles
Dark circles are a result of sleep deprivation or disturbed sleep cycles caused due to stress. Due to activated fight mode during stress, our body increases adrenaline production even during the bedtime thus making it difficult for the body to rest and hence leading to exhausted under eyes and dark circles. Opt for under eye creams to hydrate the skin near the eye area. Avoid looking at the screen for longer durations and keep a check on sleep patterns.
Stress manifestations could be different in different people but we all experience stress at some point in our life. Instead of blaming stress for everything and over-stressing further opt to care for yourself more. Choose meditation and yoga to combat stress. Opt for a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet to keep hormonal balance and nutritional requirements of the body under check. Consult an expert for the best advice and opt for a skincare routine to maintain the skin healthily and glowing!
Keep Healthy! Keep Glowing!