Stress and Skin Health
In a time when anxiety seems so ever-present, let’s explore the connection between stress and skincare and discover practical, actionable ways to nurture our skin in the face of life's pressures. These solutions are designed to be easily incorporated into your daily routine, giving you the confidence to take control of your skin health.
We know that there is an intimate link between our brain and skin and that they communicate constantly with each other. So in our modern society, where we are susceptible to chronic stress from work, relationships, or current events, our skin is both a target and a source of stress hormones. This can make the skin more vulnerable to itch, inflammation, diffuse redness, acne flares, irritation, and infection. But when we understand the nature of stress and how it affects our body, we empower ourselves to integrate mind-body practices effectively, thereby alleviating stress and nurturing our overall physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
STRESS IS A TWO-WAY STREET
The brain and skin are intricately linked through a vital pathway called the brain-skin axis. This axis is responsible for the communication between your brain and skin, especially during times of stress. When stress hits, your brain releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can trigger inflammation in the skin. Mast cells, a type of pro-inflammatory skin cell, react to these hormones and can contribute to a variety of skin issues, such as:
Increased inflammation
Impaired wound healing
More oil and sebum production
Impaired resistance to infection
Our skin, being our body's outermost layer, is constantly exposed to the outside world. This exposure makes it more vulnerable to environmental stressors than any other organ and can produce stress hormones in response. For instance, it can generate stress hormones when exposed to ultraviolet light and temperature changes, sending these signals back to the brain. Thus, psychological stressors can contribute to stressed-out skin, and environmental stressors, via the skin, can contribute to psychological stress, perpetuating the stress cycle.
SKIN CONDITIONS THAT CAN WORSEN WITH STRESS
Due to increased inflammation and the skin changes mentioned above, there is a multitude of skin conditions that can flare with stress. Such as:
Acne
Hair loss (Alopecia areata)
Hair thinning (Androgenetic Alopecia or Telogen Effluvium)
Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Scalp rash (Seborrheic dermatitis)
Hives
TIPS TO HELP REDUCE STRESS AND IMPROVE SKIN HEALTH
Not only can stress cause changes in our brain and body chemistry that result in skin changes, but our behavioural response might also contribute. For example, some people touch their face when they are nervous, introducing whatever is on their hands to their face, and cause worsening acne.
Also, when under tremendous stress, we tend to stray away from our healthy habits. We may spend less time taking care of ourselves by sleeping less, eating unhealthy diets, skipping exercise, and not washing our faces regularly. All these behaviours can negatively impact our skin.
Remember that it’s OK to be stressed—it’s a normal response, and accepting it is the first step to decreasing stress levels.
Some methods to further help decrease your stress and improve your skin health include:
Take care of yourself: Drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, sleep in a dark room, remove bright screens an hour before bed, and wake up at the same time each day.
Practice relaxation techniques: Slow breathing, meditation, and yoga are exercises that can reduce anxiety and stress.
Be aware of nervous habits: If you touch your face during times of stress, it can trigger skin problems.
Keep in contact: Don’t forget about your social life during times of stress. Make plans with your loved ones and friends.
Seek professional help: Behavioral therapists and psychologists are trained to equip you with evidence-based strategies to help cope with stress.
Continue taking care of your skin: Use sunscreen whenever you go outside, moisturize often—especially during the winter—and book an appointment with your corneotherapist to discuss any concerns regarding your skin health.
