The correlation between impaired skin health and chronic stress is heavily documented, particularity in relation to stress' impact on inflammatory conditions like dermatitis and rosacea. As much as we'd like to say "reduce your stress in order to improve your skin" - we know that just isn't possible and is generally outside of our control. So, what does stress actually do to our skin and what can we do to treat it?

 

Psychological stress increases the number of destructive free radicals produced in the body. How do we treat free radicals? Antioxidants! Make sure you're incorporating antioxidants in both your diet and your skincare routine to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

 

Do you get angry, inflamed breakouts when you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious and stressed? If so, your acne is likely stress related. Stress can trigger many different reactions in our bodies, including increasing testosterone and insulin levels. As a result of this excess testosterone production, our skin’s sebum becomes thicker and waxier contributing to more congestion, breakouts and oilier skin and hair. 

 

Have you noticed your pimples take longer to heal during times of heightened stress? Stress impairs our skin's ability to heal and repair itself.  There are several agents shown to improve our skin's capacity to heal such as Zinc and Vitamin E. These can be applied topically through skincare, as well as boosted through the diet. Oysters, red meat, poultry, whole grains and cereals offer great doses of zinc, and you'll find vitamin E in almonds, sunflower seeds/oil, peanuts, hazelnuts and avocado.

 

Healthy skin one minute and impaired the next? Commonly seen in clinic, our Therapists will pivot and adapt treatment plans to address an impaired barrier function. Ease off those active ingredients and exfoliating agents until your skin re-strengthens and signs of sensitivity begin to clear. Introduce essential fatty acids (EFAs) into your routine; they’re known for their barrier-repairing capabilities. You can include these in your skincare routine in the form of jojoba, Rosehip or squalene oils. You can also boost them in your diet through fish, flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds, sunflower and olive oils.

 

The PRIN Lymphatic Facial is the perfect treatment to refresh and strengthen the skin and barrier function. By applying pressure to the skin, capillaries can dilate allowing for fresh blood and oxygen to flow through. This helps bring new nutrients to feed, nourish and strengthen our skin.  Our other go-to treatment for compromised skin is LED; an incredible modality for when skin is suffering from stress.  The powerful wavelengths travel into the skin to reduce inflammation and recharge the skin. Studies have also shown that particular colours from LED can lower cortisol levels and create a strong sense of relaxation.