Being and feeling stressed isn’t easy. Yet, we know that sometimes it’s unavoidable. That said, there’s no reason for the skin on your face to take the heat. At least not when there are quick fixes at hand. At least according to Bernadette Judge, a registered nurse and the operations manager of the supplement company Nupeutics Naturals. Here are her skin- revitalizing solutions.
Why does stress show up on our face?
Ooh, there are more answers for that than you’d think. Over the past several years, you’ve all heard about environmental stressors like pollution, UVA and UVB rays. But other stressors can include, physical, emotional and psychological stress. “Our bodiesrespond to stress by releasing chemicals, which can cause your hormones to go crazy and increase inflammation,” explains Judge. (And yes, men have hormones.) “This can wreak havoc on your skin. If you have eczema, roscea or acne you may find that stress exacerbates these skin conditions, but even normal skin can react to stress.”
What does stressed-out skin look like?
This answer can vary depending on your skin type, but most common symptoms are redness, irritation, pimples, blackheads and breakouts, dry flakes, tightness and fine lines and wrinkles.
You wear what you eat
Who isn’t prone to stuffing down a package of Oreo cookies or tucking into a third helping of fried chicken and poutine? It’s called stress eating, but what you eat can be reflected on your face. “Eat and drink responsibly,” advises Judge. “The healthier foods we choose the healthier our skin will be. Eat the rainbow of fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Not Skittles!”
It’s not called beauty sleep by accident
Not just for women getting a solid eight of zzzs every night is imperative for your epidermis’ cellular rejuvenation. Because every day, your face loses thousands of skin cells, so it needs this rest period to create more.“Your sleep is often affected by stress,” adds Judge. “When you sleep your body goes into a restorative and healing mode. Getting enough sleep helps to manage your stress levels while alleviating stressed skin.”
Put down the bar of soap
Soap is great on your body where your skin is thicker and needs a stronger approach to get it clean. But on your face? Not so much, as it can strip your skin of the essential oils it needs leaving it tight, flaky and often with a layer of excess oil.
Simplify your skincare routine
Using gentle cleansers and lotions with fewer ingredients on a daily basis can help your skin get back on track. Soothing ingredient in your facial products can include, lavender, chamomile, rose and vitamin E, to name a few. “Work with the basics and give your skin time to calm down,” affirms Judge. “When you see your skin start to go back to normal you can incorporate stronger skin care products like vitamin C, acids and retinols.”
