Stress is a well-known adversary to our overall well-being, but its effects are not just psychological — they manifest physically too. From headaches to stomachaches, your body harbors the impact of anxiety. One perhaps surprising area where stress leaves a noticeable mark is on your skin. Understanding how stress impacts your skin can empower you to combat its effects.
The Connection Between Stress and Cortisol
When you’re stressed, your body’s natural response is to release cortisol, which is often referred to as the stress hormone. This hormone plays a critical role in your body’s fight-or-flight response. While this response is beneficial in short bursts, chronic stress leads to prolonged cortisol production. Elevated cortisol levels can wreak havoc on various bodily functions, and your skin is one of them.
How Increased Cortisol Can Impact Your Skin
Prolonged stress and increased cortisol levels can lead to multiple skin issues, such as the following:
- Acne breakouts
- Eczema flare-ups
- Dryness and dehydration
- Premature aging
- Increased sensitivity
Cortisol triggers a chain reaction in your skin. It stimulates sebaceous glands to produce more oil, often leading to acne breakouts. For individuals with sensitive skin, conditions like eczema can worsen under stress as inflammation escalates. Similarly, cortisol can disrupt the skin barrier, resulting in dryness and dehydration. Over time, chronic stress accelerates signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, stressed skin becomes more reactive, making it increasingly sensitive to environmental aggressors.
What to Do
Taking proactive steps can mitigate the effects of stress on your skin. Start by integrating stress-reducing activities into your routine. There are certain hobbies that can enhance your beauty by completing stress cycles and controlling cortisol levels. Yoga and cycling are two great options.
Skincare-focused strategies can also fortify your skin against stress-induced damage. Create a regimen that includes hydration and products that bolster the skin barrier.
Introducing self-care rituals into your routine is another excellent way to combat stress. You can explore how to use aromatherapy oils in your self-care routine to promote relaxation and calmness. These oils, coupled with mindfulness, can be a soothing experience for your mind and body.
Understanding how stress impacts your skin is the first step in learning what to do to mitigate its effects. Though you can’t completely avoid stress in your life, you can proactively manage its presence and how it affects your skin health.
Kelly Schoessling is a Publishing Coordinator at Logical Position, a digital marketing agency that writes dynamic web articles to create measurable growth.
