What You Need to Know about Stress and Your Skin
If you’ve ever had a pimple or a cold sore show up right before a job interview or a big date, you already know that stress can affect your skin. After all, the signs of stress can be physical as well as mental, and they can appear anywhere on your body.
Many skin conditions result from chemical and hormonal changes caused by stress, including rashes, hives, and pimples. For example, your body produces more cortisol when tense, making your skin oilier and prone to acne.
While stress is an unavoidable part of life, you can reduce the impact it has on your comfort and appearance.
Try these tips for treating and preventing stress-related skin symptoms:
Treating Stress-Related Skin Symptoms
1. Understand the interactions. Stress can directly cause what’s going on with your skin and slow down healing regardless of what caused your symptoms. Plus, skin troubles can cause more stress, creating an unfortunate cycle.
2. Cleanse carefully. Scrubbing too hard can damage the skin more. Wash gently, and be sure to select products for your skin type.
3. Relieve itching. Resist the urge to scratch. Keeping your hands off your skin helps prevent scarring and reduce the risk of spreading any infection. Antihistamines and cold compresses are safer ways to soothe itching and burning.
4. Talk with your doctor. Call your doctor for an appointment if your symptoms don’t clear within a few days. That way, you can rule out potentially severe causes like allergies.
5. See a specialist. Suppose your doctor cannot eliminate your symptoms with treatments such as antibiotics and prescription antihistamines. In that case, they may refer you to a dermatologist, and they can provide further tests and treatments.
6. Take your time. Skin conditions often need a while to heal fully. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and continue taking medication as prescribed, even if your skin looks better.
Preventing Stress-Related Skin Symptoms
1. Exercise regularly. There are many ways to deal with stress constructively, and physical activity is a great option. Plan workouts you’ll look forward to, like dance classes or playing tennis.
2. Sleep well. Proper rest is also essential. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Go to bed and rise on a consistent schedule.
3. Eat a balanced diet. Your skin needs nourishment just like the rest of your body. Avoid crash diets and too much processed food. Consume at least 7 servings of vegetables and fruits daily, along with adequate protein and healthy fats.
4. Talk it out. It helps to have someone you can confide in. Call a friend when you need validation and support. Consider seeing a therapist if it helps you deal with recurring issues.
5. Limit alcohol and caffeine. Cocktails and fancy coffee drinks can be tempting when you’re under pressure. Unfortunately, alcohol and caffeine can also aggravate skin conditions. Drink in moderation or substitute water and herbal teas instead.
6. Practice relaxation techniques. Experiment with methods that encourage refreshment and recovery until you find what works. Start a daily meditation practice or take a warm bath when you return home from work.
7. Keep a journal. Writing about your feelings may also be helpful. A journal can help track how your emotions may affect your skin.
Rough days at the office and visits from your in-laws don’t have to take a toll on your epidermis. Protect your skin with regular maintenance, appropriate medical care, and a healthy dose of stress management.
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