Stress and Skin Health

There is a strong connection between Stress and Skin Health. In fact your skin can be the first signal that something is wrong!

It's no secret that life can feel like a whirlwind when you're juggling a million commitments particularly if you're a woman in the 'sandwich' generation - caring for both children and aging parents.

If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of caring for your family, home, and maybe even a full-time job, you're not alone. Oh, and let's not forget about the delightful hormonal changes of your own that slip into the mix.

Few of us escape worry-free and skin, being the body's largest organ, rarely escapes the onslaught.    

How stress and skin health are connected

Did you know that your skin is like your body's little alarm bell? When stress starts to tiptoe into your life, it often leaves traces on your skin. Ignoring stress too long can wear down your mental health, and who wants that? So, let's dive into why stress and skin health are 'best friends' and how you can keep them in balance.

Positive Stress v Long-Term Stress

Ah, the adrenaline rush! A little ‘positive stress’ can be our cheerleader, keeping us motivated and driven. But when stress overstays its welcome, it can lead to some not-so-fun skin surprises. If your skin’s sending you signals, take a moment to listen and tackle stress head-on with grace.

In my own family I see a change of dynamics; my daughter-in-law and niece both have children and an elderly parent requiring them to be in several places at one time. They continue to hold down jobs requiring full attention alongside coping with their own hormonal changes - it's life, it happens but it wear you down!  

The Sleep-Stress-Skin Triangle

Ever noticed how a poor night's sleep can leave your eyes red and tired, with those pesky dark circles popping up?

Long-term sleep deprivation can affect decision-making and memory, making life even more challenging.

Let's break the cycle: Wind down before bedtime, skip the late-night caffeine and heavy meals, and make your bedroom a tech-free zone. Say hello to peaceful, beauty-filled nights!

Acne, Psoriasis or Eczema

Cortisol, the stress hormone, loves to stir things up when you're feeling overwhelmed and causes skin glands and other hormones to become imbalanced. 

Whether you're battling acne, eczema, or psoriasis, those little worries can magnify stress's impact on your skin. 

Tingling or tightness of the hands with or without a rash is often another signal that you're suffering from stress too.   

Gut Feelings: From Acid Reflux to Skin Rashes

Stress can mess with your gut's bacterial balance leading to skin surprises and digestive woes.

We've all had that anxious fluttery feeling in our stomachs or, sometimes, more debilitating symptoms. My daughter suffers with severe acid reflux and describes it as an 'elephant sitting on her chest'. 

This can exacerbate various skin conditions, stomach upsets and further problems if not kept an eye on. Keep things as smooth as possible by embracing a healthy diet, filled with gut-loving foods to support your skin and overall well-being.

Flushing or Rosacea

When stress tightens its grip, shorter breaths and shallow breathing can lead to a lack of oxygen, expanding capillaries and triggering rosacea.

Stress weakens the immune system too which can further extend the duration of these flare-ups. 

A tingling or tightness of the hands with or without a rash can often be another signal that you're suffering from stress too.   

Practice some beautiful, deep breathing techniques to keep your immune system pumped and skin calm. 

Your Best Strategy - getting stress under control!

You're doing great, I have no doubt that you are coping but a few touches of self-care can make you unstoppable! 💖 Develop your own best strategy for stress management with these simple practices:

All in all, taking care of yourself is essential for your psychological wellness and prosperity. By integrating this very basic care into your day, hopefully you can decrease pressure and uneasiness and lift your energy levels. 

Make sure to focus on your own requirements and to look for assistance when it's available. By taking care of yourself you’ll be better prepared to deal with life’s difficulties and partake in every one of the beneficial things it brings to the table. Your skin will thank you for it!