Stress is something that everyone deals with. While it can be useful in pushing you to get work done, too much of it is a bad thing. In fact, extreme levels of stress can have adverse effects on your physical health. It can weaken your immune system, trigger headaches, and even increase your risk of a heart attack. But did you know that stress can also negatively affect your skin’s health?
There are many ways stress can interfere with the state of your skin. But it’s primarily due to how stress causes your body to release a hormone known as cortisol. Cortisol makes your skin produce more oil, which then makes it more prone to skin problems. For example, it can lead to breakouts, according to dermatology professor Dr. Alexa Kimball.
It’s also worth noting that high stress levels can result in the production of another hormone called corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH). This specific hormone can bind itself to your sebaceous glands, or the glands in your hair follicles, and ramp up oil production as well. CRH also causes the secretion of cortisol in the body. So, extreme stress prompts two different hormones to produce oil. And this makes your skin more vulnerable to acne and other side effects, like the clogging of pores or accumulation of dead skin cells.
Additionally, stress also negatively impacts your immune system, making it more sensitive and prone to rashes, hives, and redness. And if you have underlying conditions that cause inflammation, like psoriasis or eczema, these are exacerbated by extreme stress.
Lastly, stress also makes people less likely to engage in healthy habits. When a person feels extremely stressed, their nerves are more prone to signaling itchiness. And that can cause them to scratch or pick at their skin, which can lead to more swelling, redness, or even bleeding. Plus, stress can push you to eat junk food, consume more caffeinated drinks, or not get enough hours of sleep as a means of stress relief. And all the aforementioned unhealthy habits negatively affect your skin’s health.
How to Deal with Problematic Skin
While it’s difficult to control your stress levels, there are some measures you can take to care of your skin. Here are a few options:
1. Practice a skincare routine
The first thing you can do is implement a skincare routine into your daily schedule. This usually consists of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your skin. If you’re struggling with acne, be sure to purchase the right acne medications for your skin type. And, most importantly, stick to your routine. Having a routine can actually make your life feel more organized. You can feel in control, which can ultimately lead to better stress management.
Also, make sure to pair your skincare regimen with high-quality bath essentials, to ensure that your skin is getting the nutrients it needs. You can try out the ScrubzBody coconut milk sugar scrub for a sweet and creamy cleanse. This scrub is perfect for your skin health! Another product, Bye Bye Bagz, has anti-inflammatory properties to help calm any blemishes that have arisen, so in addition to being fabulous as an undereye and face cream, it is a pimple reducer, as well.
2. Get professional help
If you find that your skin health is rapidly getting worse, it’s best to get in contact with a dermatologist to see how you can treat the damage done to your skin. Qualified dermatologists treat skin conditions and help a patient maintain their skin health. Some conditions they can help you with include acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis. After treatment, they can then prescribe creams and ointments for you to incorporate into your skincare routine.
Meanwhile, if you’d like to alleviate the effects of stress, consider arranging an appointment with a mental health professional. Mental health nurses are specialist nurses that can attend to your needs in virtual care settings. Their expertise lies in the field of mental health, allowing them to diagnose their patients’ psychological conditions. A mental health nurse can help you identify your stressors and find ways to manage them so you don’t experience its symptoms and side effects, like acne. Treatments range from calming exercises to therapy sessions that can help you get to the root of the problem.
3. Make time for self-care
You can also practice self-care techniques to alleviate the effects of stress. One thing you can do is invest in a facial sculpting tool. ScrubzBody’s facial sculpting tool is made of rose quartz, which is the love, and comfort crystal. Its high vibration can ease tension, stress, and anxiety, making it a great means of self-care. Alternatively, you can learn a hobby that makes you happy, whether it’s cultivating a garden, hiking, or meditating for a few minutes a day. Find an activity that helps you relax and try to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Don’t have much time? Give yourself a 4-minute facial with Face Oilz! It is pampering, soothing, de-stressing, and great for your skin.
The body and the mind are linked, so your mental state impacts your physical health, and vice-versa. While the effects of stress on your overall wellness can be extremely difficult to deal with, it’s important to know that there are plenty of ways you can maintain your health.
Thanks to Aiza Lorelei Turner, guest blogger