Stress can have a significant impact on our overall health, including the health and appearance of our skin. Cortisol, the hormone that spikes whenever we are stressed, can lead to skin breakouts, dryness, inflammation, and other problems. Fortunately, there are effective ingredients and treatments that can help remedy the effects of stress on the skin. In this article, we’ll explore some of these top ingredients and treatments that can help you maintain healthy and radiant skin, even during stressful times.
Dealing with Redness and Rosacea
Scaling Back Your Routine
For those prone to redness or rosacea, it’s essential to scale back your skincare routine and focus on simple, hard-working solutions. Begin by eliminating any products that may cause irritation, such as harsh exfoliants or fragrances. You should also consider incorporating a retinoid into your routine, as retinol increases the rate of cell turnover in the skin, making it great for normalizing the equilibrium of skin that’s prone to acne or rosacea.
Emollient Moisturizers
Adding an emollient moisturizer into your lineup can help protect your skin’s barrier and reduce redness. Look for a facial cream that’s not too heavy or rich, one that will bring back the barrier protection of your skin. Products that contain ingredients like ceramides can be particularly helpful in maintaining your skin’s natural barrier.
Professional Help
If your redness turns into hives or extreme irritation, consider using a hydrocortisone cream, but also get professional help. Always consult with your doctor or dermatologist, as bumps or rashes may indicate an underlying issue that requires expert attention.
Treating Breakouts and Acne
Clarifying Cleansers
Acne and oily skin are common side effects of stress. For immediate relief, dermatologists recommend using a clarifying cleanser twice a day and avoiding over-exfoliation. A gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that contains ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
Topical Treatments
In addition to a clarifying cleanser, consider incorporating a topical acne treatment into your routine. Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur can help combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Balancing Oil Production
When stressed, our skin tends to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Incorporating products that help balance oil production, such as niacinamide or zinc, can help keep your skin clear and healthy.
Natural Ingredients for Stressed Skin
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a popular natural ingredient that can help nourish, refresh, and rejuvenate stressed skin. Rich in vitamins, amino acids, and enzymes, aloe vera can help soothe irritation, increase collagen production, and even lighten dark spots and patches. Aloe vera can be applied topically as a gel or consumed as a juice for an inside-out approach to skincare.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is good for stressed skin because it contains antioxidants that help to remove all problems associated with skin stress. Ashwagandha has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect and heal the skin from various forms of infections, damages, and reactions. It can also control the overproduction of melanin in the skin to treat hyperpigmentation and fight inflammatory skin allergies by repressing C-reactive protein levels. Additionally, ashwagandha can control excessive sebum production, thus preventing the formation of different types of acne, and help to fight signs of skin aging.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are good for stressed skin because they help decrease trans-epidermal water loss, which protects the skin from infections with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These fatty acids can be obtained through diet or by using plant oils that are rich in essential fatty acids. They can maintain healthy cell balance, reduce inflammation, and prevent visible signs of aging, improving skin texture, regulating oil production, and protecting against environmental damage. Argan oil, Rosehip Oil, Grapeseed Oil, for instance, are rich in linoleic acid, which is highly beneficial for the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.
Hemp Oil
Hemp oil is good for stressed skin because it contains compounds with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and oil-reducing properties that may help improve acne vulgaris. Hemp seed oil is a useful addition to a skincare routine as it contains phytonutrients that control acne and inflammation, making it good for both oily and dry skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a good remedy for inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, and it can help regulate oil secretion, treat acne-causing bacteria, and reduce inflammation, thus preventing the formation of comedones. Additionally, the balanced content of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids in hemp seed oil can help improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis when included in one’s diet.
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is good for stressed skin due to its powerful skincare properties, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and humectant properties. It has the ability to hydrate and soothe the skin and is particularly useful for those with eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Additionally, Manuka honey can help balance the skin’s pH level, which can help with inflamed, blotchy skin, redness, or stress. It also has exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and even out skin tone. The antioxidant properties of Manuka honey help neutralize free radicals and promote the growth of collagen skin cells, which can result in firmer and more youthful-looking skin. Overall, Manuka honey is a potent skincare ingredient that can help stressed skin in multiple ways.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its skin-healing properties. Curcumin, the primary bioactive component in turmeric, can help nourish and hydrate stressed skin while speeding up the recovery process. Incorporating turmeric into your diet or using it topically in a face mask can help improve the health and appearance of your skin.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is known for its ability to improve skin elasticity and even out skin tone. Its oil extract contains antioxidants that help maintain the structure of skin cells, reduce dryness, and replenish moisture in stressed skin. Sandalwood’s antiseptic properties can also aid in the care and healing of wounds. Sandalwood can be used in various forms, such as powder, oil, or hydrosol.
Shiitake
Shiitake mushrooms contain antioxidants that help to remove problems associated with skin stress. They also have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties that protect and heal the skin. Additionally, Shiitake mushrooms have high levels of copper, selenium, beta-glucans, vitamin D, complex B vitamins, and other key vitamins and minerals. These nutrients help to control overproduction of melanin to treat hyperpigmentation, fight inflammatory skin allergies, control excessive sebum production to prevent acne and help fight signs of skin aging. Overall, incorporating shiitake mushrooms into a skincare routine can be beneficial for stressed skin.
Sunflower Seed Oil
Cold-pressed sunflower seed oil is an antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps with premature aging and wrinkles. It contains vitamin E and linoleic acid, which help your skin retain moisture and protect against bacteria and germs. Sunflower seed oil is highly absorbent and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for various skin types.
Rose
Rose is a flower rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. Rose oil is popular for tackling dry skin, while its astringent properties make it an excellent combatant of acne, redness, and inflammation. Rosehip seed oil and rosewater are also beneficial for skincare, as they contain skin-friendly anti-aging properties and a variety of vitamins that help minimize wrinkles and fine lines.
Reviva’s Revitalizing Skin Care Products
Reviva Labs offers a range of revitalizing skincare products that can help soothe and treat stressed skin. These products contain high-quality, effective ingredients that target various skin concerns, such as redness, breakouts, dryness, and inflammation. By incorporating Reviva’s revitalizing skincare products into your routine, you can effectively combat the effects of stress on your skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Stress and Skin Health
Balanced Diet
A healthy diet is essential for maintaining healthy skin, especially during stressful times. Ensure you’re consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide your skin with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and resilient.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve circulation, which can have a positive impact on your skin’s overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, as it allows your skin to repair and regenerate during the night. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to ensure your skin has the rest it needs to stay healthy and radiant.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day to maintain proper hydration.
Meditation and Stress Management
Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, can help reduce stress levels and promote overall wellbeing, including skin health.
By incorporating these top ingredients, treatments, and lifestyle tips into your routine, you can effectively manage the effects of stress on your skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. Remember, a balanced approach to skincare and overall wellness is the key to keeping your skin looking and feeling its best, even during the most stressful times.
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