Stress doesn’t just affect your mood; it also impacts your hair, skin, and overall appearance. If you’ve ever noticed yourself having poor skin, breakouts, or hair loss, stress might be the reason why. Let’s have a look at some of the unexpected ways that stress interferes with your beauty routine and how you can combat the side effects.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio:
Stress Triggers Breakouts and Skin Irritation
When you are stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which is a hormone that increases oil production. Excess oil clogs pores, leading to acne and inflammation. Stress also weakens the skin barrier, meaning that it is prone to irritation, redness, and dryness. Use a gentle, hydrating skincare product and make sure you stick to a consistent cleansing routine. You should also try professional facials and other treatments that are designed to calm inflamed skin. Have a look at further beauty treatments available here.
It Speeds Up Aging
Chronic stress breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and youthful. This can lead to you gaining wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Incorporating antioxidants like vitamin C into your skincare routine can help hydrate and protect your skin. Use SPF daily and think about anti-aging treatments such as chemical peels and microneedling.
It Causes Hair Thinning and Loss
Stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, leading to increased shedding. It also disrupts the scalp’s natural balance, causing dandruff or excess oil production. Try massaging your scalp to improve circulation and using strengthening hair treatments that contain keratin and biotin. You should also try professional scalp treatments in order to support hair regrowth, such as using rosemary oil.
It Leads to Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes
Lack of sleep and increased cortisol levels can lead to fluid retention, making under-eye circles and puffiness more noticeable. Apply a cooling eye mask in order to reduce the swelling at the end of the day and use caffeine-infused eye treatments. Opt for professional eye treatments to reduce your tired-looking skin using expert solutions.
It Makes Your Skin Dull and Dehydrated
Stress depletes your skin’s moisture levels, leaving it looking dry and lifeless. It also reduces blood flow, which means that your complexion can appear pale or uneven. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods like cucumbers. Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, and try hydrating facials and oxygen treatments so that you can get an instant radiance added to your skin.
Relaxation Techniques to Reduce Stress
In order to combat this properly, you need to do more than just hide the problem using beauty treatments. You also need to combat the stress. Try deep breathing by taking slow, deep breaths to calm your nervous system, and include meditation; even five minutes of mindfulness can lower stress hormones. Exercise is another great way to combat stress as it releases endorphins that boost your mood and skin health. Massage therapy helps to relieve tension and promotes circulation.
Stress is inevitable; however, its effects on your skin and hair don’t have to be. By following relaxation techniques and incorporating professional treatments into your routine, you should be able to maintain a radiant, healthy appearance.
Tione
Tione is a full-time student and a Blogger. When she is not in class she is actively working on her blog.