7 Ways stress messes with your skin

Stress can hit hard, particularly during these unprecedented times. According to a survey conducted by pharmaceutical company Pharma Dynamics, 65% of South African adults admitted to neglecting their health and well-being as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The effects of the current climate as well as various stressors accompanying lockdown – WFH, job loss, disrupted routine, working longer hours – not only lead to emotional turbulence but can take a toll on your complexion as well.

Common concerns that come from stressed skin

1. Red itchy skin

The hormonal or chemical changes that occur in response to stress can trigger blood vessels to expand causing red and swollen patches of skin.

2. Breakouts

The shift in hormone levels can rev up the activity of sebaceous glands in the skin, leading to higher than normal levels of oil, blockages in the pores and acne breakouts.

3. Eczema

To help it deal with stress the body releases cortisol. In large doses, however, cortisol increases inflammation which may lead to an eczema flare-up.

4. Dry and dull skin

Stress can weaken the skin’s barrier, hindering its ability to retain water, leaving skin dry and lacklustre.

5. Flare-ups

As with eczema, large amounts of cortisol can also lead to inflammation of the skin.

6. Lines and wrinkles

Another side effect of stress is increased signs of ageing, such as fine lines owing to reduced elasticity and sleep deprivation.

7. Under-eye bags 

Capillaries under your eyes are fragile and break under stress. This may leave your under-eyes looking sallow and tired, which make dark circles seem more apparent.

What can be done to help de-stress your skin?

According to skin fundi and beautician Rashmi Patel, it is important to tackle the problem from all angles including; eating habits, exercise routine, sleeping pattern and a skincare routine that can calm your skin.

“Consuming a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, good fats, natural sugars, leafy greens as well as two litres of water a day can help the body fight off stress, reduce the effects of dehydration on the skin and lead to a better-looking complexion overall," she says.

She also suggests incorporating a consistent exercise routine (which lowers cortisol levels and calms us down) as well as getting at least eight hours of sleep at night to allow the skin time to repair itself.

Skincare is integral to de-stressing skin

As a general rule of thumb, Rashmi suggests bringing your routine back to basics and eliminating any products with excess fragrance, parabens or colourants. Utilising ingredients ranging from skin barrier-building ceramides to hydrating hyaluronic acid and anti-inflammatory honey – which all feed the skin what it needs to calm down.

Ingredients such as niacinamide, zinc and nourishing and soothing vitamin E are all able to fortify the skin’s barrier and repair any damage.

As for spots, try not to worry – it will only make them worse. Instead, look for a spot treatment with acne-fighting ingredients such as Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid.

Lastly, indulging in some self-care such as a massage, applying a face mask or soaking in a blissful bathtub sublimely scented with essential oils (such lavender and coconut) or engaging in various mindful activities such as yoga, meditation, tai chi and deep breathing have been shown to be beneficial for lowering stress and improving your skin.

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