The Stress/Skin Connection

The impact of chronic stress changes the whole immune make-up causing an increase in inflammation. This in turn can cause a flare up for people who tend to have skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema. Chronic inflammation can even accelerate the aging of the skin!

Immune system functions best when you are taking care of  yourself. Unfortunately, when we’re experiencing a great deal of stress, we often spend less time keeping up with our self-care.

Not sleeping well, eating healthy, drinking enough water or even taking the time to wash your face at night, can really impact your skin negatively.

Here are a few self-care reminders that can benefit your skin:

1.) Get plenty of sleep.

It is crucial for your skin’s health and appearance. The app, Calm, has some great sleep meditations and even bedtime stories to help fall asleep.

2.) Be sure to drink more water and herbal tea than caffeinated drinks.

Caffeine really dehydrates the skin. Drinking herbal tea, such as chamomile, often helps with relaxation. If you do not have herbal tea, you can create a tea by putting fruits in boiled water.

3.) Fill your home with soothing scents.

Aromatherapy is very helpful for stress relief. Use your favorite blend of essential oils in your home like lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, grapefruit and tangerine. If you don't have a diffuser, put a few drops of essential oils on a cotton ball and distribute them around your home. You also can spray your rooms with aromatherapy mist made from 30 drops of essential oils and 3 oz. of water. 

4.) Take a relaxing bath.

Put a few drops of your favorite essential oils in the water. You can add a cup of baking soda and Epson salts in your bathtub to help detoxify and soften your skin with minerals.

5.) Try to stay away from processed foods, sugar, cheese, and heavy dairy products which can congest the skin.

I know sometimes this be hard since we often are drawn to comfort food for a sense of relief.

6.) Keep calm and SMILE!

Did you know smiling has been scientifically proven to reduce stress by releasing dopamine and serotonin in the brain.

So......remember to take the time to show yourself some love and nurturing during these stressful times. You are worth it and your skin deserves it!