5 steps to cure stressed skin

You don’t need a dermatologist to tell you when you have stressed skin. You can see it, and you can definitely feel it.

Stressed skin is a combination of a number of factors. A low nutrient diet, an overload of toxins, a lack of sleep, inadequate care, dehydration and low emotions can all contribute to a stressed skin.

This all manifests itself in dryness, blotchiness, spots and acne, visible veins, pallour, dark circles under the eyes, increased fine lines and other skin complaints.

What is the main trouble causer in all this?

Cortisol.

Cortisol is the stress hormone that is released in periods of unhappiness, turmoil, overwork and general negativity. Cortisol helps us deal with stress by shutting down unnecessary functions, like reproduction and the immune system, in order to allow the body to direct all energies toward dealing with the stress at hand.

Use the following strategies to correct the top 5 stress symptoms and your complexion will look calm, cool, and collected.

1. Dryness

Cortisol inhibits the body’s ability to hold on to water. This is one of the first signs of stressed skin, but can be easily corrected. Wash with luke warm water, avoid using anything that could strip the skin’s natural oils and use a rich moisturiser. Apply the cream when your skin is still moist from washing – this will increase the amount of moisture held in the skin.

2. Fine lines

According to Prevention.com, cortisol triggers an elevation in blood sugar, which—via a process called glycation—damages collagen and elastin, the protein fibers that plump skin and keep it smooth. Constant muscle tension also leads to permanent wrinkling.

Use a cream that contain retinol and antioxidants to encourage collagen production to firm skin. Something like Dr Spiller’s Biomimetic Skin Care Vitamin C Plus Serum is perfect and is a concentrated blend of Vitamin C, Vitamin A (Retinol), Niacinamide, Panthenol to provide the skin with vitality, refine pores and stimulate cellular functions. Skin is left balanced, healed, firmed and brighter.

3. Redness

The increased blood flow that occurs when you’re under duress may cause capillaries to expand. Stress also triggers flushing known as rosacea, according to the National Rosacea Society. And because stress weakens your immune system, flare-ups may last longer.

Correct it: When used daily, topical creams made with anti-inflammatories such as allantoin and licorice root extract can ease ruddiness. Try Biodroga MD Moisture Perfect Hydration 24h Care which smooths, calms and hydrates.

4. Acne

Stress increases the inflammation that leads to breakouts, says Gil Yosipovitch, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University.

Correct it: Use a lotion containing skin sloughing salicylic acid like the Atlantis Skin Care Glowing Skin Toner.

5. Tired eyes

Anxiety causes a chain reaction, leading to sleepless nights, which in turn cause puffiness, says Amy Wechsler, MD, a dermatologist and psychiatrist in New York City and author of The Mind Beauty Connection speaking to Prevention.com.

Correct it: Use cucumber slices as mini ice packs for the eyes; they constrict the blood and lymph vessels that bring fluid to the area. Sleep with your head slightly elevated to prevent fluid from pooling.