Is Stress Affecting Your Skin?
Have you ever noticed that when you are stressed, you break out more? This is because stress causes a chemical response in your body that makes skin more sensitive and reactive. It can also make it harder for skin problems to heal.
Stress can also:
- Worsen skin problems such as; psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema. Stress can also cause hives and other types of skin rashes and trigger a flare-up of fever blisters.
- Interfere with daily skin care. If you are stressed, you might skimp on your skin care, which can aggravate skin problems.
- Skin problems can also be stressful. Some people are so embarrassed by their skin that they keep to themselves, which adds more stress, worsening the problem.
Reduce the Effects of Stress on Your Skin
Although it’s impossible to avoid stress completely, there are ways to handle it better. Try these approaches:
- Get regular exercise, even if it’s just a walk around the block. It’s good for your skin and the rest of your body.
- Don’t neglect your skin. Take care of your skin, even if you’re tired or stressed.
- Take time for yourself to do something you enjoy, even if you only have ten minutes.
- Get enough sleep. Seven to eight hours each night is ideal.
- Say no. It’s OK to set limits and boundaries to lower your stress.
- Practice stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or visual imagery.
- Talk to someone. Seek support from a friend or a professional therapist