Most of us are stressed out on occasion, but did you know that your skin can pay the price? Acne and other skin irritations can pop up any time stress strikes. Follow these three tips to combat the signs of stressed-out skin.
1. Relax your mind
As if your initial stress wasn’t enough, seeing its visible signs on your skin will likely stress you out further. According to dermatologist Flor A. Mayoral, M.D., clinical instructor of dermatology and cutaneous surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, learning how to manage the effects of stress can help to alleviate some symptoms. Cope with stress head on by calming your mind.
Here’s how to soothe your psyche:
- Start an exercise routine. Exercise isn’t just vital for our bodies; it’s also important for our skin, according to WebMD. It gets the heart pumping and blood flowing, which, in turn, helps skin receive nutrients while filtering out toxins.
Less stress can mean fewer acne outbreaks. "Your adrenal glands are producing less of these male-type hormones that are part of any acne flare-up," dermatologic surgeon David Berman, M.D., tells WebMD.
Exercise also relaxes muscles, which could improve lines and wrinkles caused by tension.
Be sure to drink plenty of water during and after your workout — it not only keeps you hydrated, but it helps to flush out toxins.
- Take a warm bath. A leisurely soak in the tub is a great way to relax and unwind after a stressful day. However, instead of hot water (which dries out skin), use warm water.
Many people find the scent of lavender calming and stress-relieving. To take advantage of these soothing benefits, try lavender-scented soap, like L’Occitane Shea Lavender Soap. Follow with L’Occitane Lavender Body Lotion, a luxurious lotion with vitamins and hydrating shea butter.
- Meditate or spend time with your family and friends. Taking time for yourself will de-stress your mind and your skin. Also, spending time with loved ones can help to put things in perspective, lifting your mood and relaxing your mind. When your stress level is reduced or eliminated, your skin will make its way back to its normal state.
2. Stick with skin care basics
Your first instinct might be to abandon your daily skin care routine or add special products. Instead, step away from exfoliators, masks and any other extras until your skin has returned to its healthy self. Although exfoliators and masks remove dead layers of skin and impurities, they can also leave skin even more irritated when it’s already stressed.
So, maintain a basic regimen that includes a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. Also, look into products made for sensitive skin, which are typically free from harsh, irritating ingredients like alcohol, fragrance and essential oils. Soothing ingredients usually found in sensitive skin care, including aloe and oatmeal, can alleviate irritation. Even if you don’t typically have sensitive skin, using these products will help.
Here are some products to de-stress your upset skin:
3. Watch what you consume
Many times, stress leads us to make unhealthy choices, which can have a negative effect on skin. Particularly, if you turn to smoking or high-fat comfort foods, you might notice your skin looking worse.
Foster healthy habits by:
- Saying no to alcohol and smoking. Alcohol dehydrates your skin, making wrinkles more prominent. Smoking accelerates wrinkling, mainly around your lips and eyes.
- Skipping greasy fast food. Eating high-cal, high-fat foods stresses the body, which doesn’t bode well for the skin. Though there’s no evidence to suggest that greasy foods contribute to breakouts, there’s no denying the importance of a healthy inside for healthy skin. Some simple changes you can make: choose whole wheat products, healthy nuts, berries and drink plenty of water.
See also:
Contact Dermatitis: When Your Accessories Rub You the Wrong Way
Keep Your Skincare Simple
10 Skincare Habits to Adopt