While stress is known to take its toll on your body, it can show up uninvited on your face as well. If you have ever had an unexpected acne breakout before an important work presentation, you know what we’re referring to. Living a stress-free life may seem like a utopian dream, but understanding the impact of stress on the skin and body can help you and how to dial back its effects with our expert-approved guide. Renowned dermatologist Dr Harshna Bijlani and therapist at The Mood Space, Mehek Rohira, shed light on the impact of stress on the skin and body.
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This is how stress shows up on your face
The key to understanding how stress affects your skin lies in appreciating the mind-skin connection, believes Dr Bijlani. “What you feel on the inside always reflects on the outside,” she proclaims, adding, “Stress suppresses the effectiveness of the immune system, and since the skin is a part of this system, it becomes susceptible to damages.” The toll that stress exacts on your skin can show up in a myriad of ways. Here are the signs to watch out for along with Dr Bijlani’s tried-and-tested advice for dealing with stressed skin:
1. Acne
Stress can cause an increase in the hormone cortisol, which can elevate oil production and inflammation that then causes breakouts. Look for active ingredients, such as niacinamide and salicylic acid, to serve as anti-inflammatory agents that soothe irritated skin and regulate sebum production.
2. Eczema and psoriasis
Stress can intensify existing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, causing flare-ups and worsening symptoms. Hydration is the key to relieving dry and itchy skin, which makes hyaluronic acid and other occlusives, like heavy creams or balms, essential for locking in moisture. Topical anti-inflammatory medications, oral medications like corticosteroids and in-clinic procedures like LED light therapy can also be beneficial in treating these skin conditions.
3. Wrinkles
Chronic stress can accelerate ageing by breaking down collagen and elastin resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. While tools like gua shas and the derma roller can boost collagen and offer temporary relief, in-clinic procedures like laser treatments, PRF face treatment, Ultherapy, peels, and Volite can be considered when it comes to treating age-related skin concerns.
4. Dull and dry skin
Stress also impacts the skin’s barrier function, leading to dehydration, flaky skin and a dull tinge to the complexion. Dehydrated, dry, dull skin can be repaired with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture and keeps the skin hydrated. Niacinamide chips in by soothing dry and dehydrated skin alongside regular clean-ups and facials that exfoliate dead skin and give a youthful glow.
5. Under-eye bags
Sleep deprivation caused by stress can increase puffiness and accelerate formation of under-eye bags with the loss of skin elasticity. Topical under-eye creams or serums that contain hyaluronic acid, retinol and vitamin C can be beneficial in reducing fine lines near the eyes and lightening the under-eye pockets. For in-clinic help, request your dermatologist for treatments like Ultherapy and dermal fillers to restore the volume under the eyes and erase the appearance of dark circles.
This is how stress impacts your body
“While we often assume that the mind and body are two separate entities, it is far from the truth. Emotions are felt not only mentally but also physically,” explains Rohira. “Stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response with an increase in heart rate, quickened breathing and tightening of the muscles. While this response is meant to be protective, constant exposure to stress takes its toll on the body,” she adds. This includes changes in your appetite and sleeping patterns along with an overall decrease in immunity. When aggravated, the effects of long-term stress can lead to dysregulation of blood pressure, blood sugar, sex drive and even the menstrual cycle, she cautions.
How to combat stress-related problems in your everyday life
While there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for stress management, Rohira believes that certain lifestyle changes are pertinent for coping with mental overwhelm. She recommends activities such as walking, dancing and yoga that can positively impact your mood. Getting the right amount of sleep and nourishing your body with wholesome food can also go a long way in combating stress.
“Little things like spending time amidst nature, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking short breaks between work can also help. Try to consciously make time for leisure activities and connecting with loved ones to help you stay grounded in the present moment. Giving your mind and body the nourishment that it needs, whether physically or mentally, is the core element to managing stress,” she signs off.
