Blog
Stress, Skin and Wellbeing
Thursday 16th November 2017
Charlotte
One in six people in the workplace are affected by stress, anxiety or depression at any one time in this country, according to the leading UK charity MIND.
As the festive period beckons, tensions can run high, so it is important to help yourself relax and take five to help lower your stress levels and remain mindful.
Stress can also have a major impact on the skin's appearance, with certain skin conditions actually directly caused by stress.
These include:
Dryness/Dullness.
Raised levels of cortisol promotes transepidermal water loss resulting in dry and dull skin appearance.
Fine Lines.
Raised cortisol can trigger elevated blood sugar levels via a process known as glycation.
Ultimately, glycation damages collagen and elastin, two fibers that help to keep skin smooth, plump and firm.
Counteract the effects with vitamin A along with antioxidants to stimulate collagen production and help diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Acne.
Stress triggers the release of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone which are responsible for the production of sebum. Women suffer more than men as they produce a much higher amount of androgens in the adrenal gland than men.
Treatments using salicylic acid and vitamin A will help to control bacteria, reduce clogged pores and to normalise sebum production.
No Sleep
Your skin is the window to what's going on in your body internally, so if you're not sleeping and your system isn't functioning properly, you're going to notice a dull complexion, dry, flaky skin and breakouts.
A recent study found that poor quality sleepers showed increased signs of intrinsic skin ageing including fine lines, uneven pigmentation and reduced elasticity.
Deficiencies
Stress causes magnesium deficiency. The benefits of magnesium for anxiety and stress are substantial.
When people are low in magnesium, they feel anxious, suffer with muscle cramps and may experience insomnia.
Supplementation can help greatly when dealing with vitamin and mineral deficiencies, alongside a healthy balanced diet.