Effects Of Stress On Your Skin

By Author: Vara Veda
Total Articles: 7
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• Inflammation
• Dry Skin
• Acne
• Wrinkles
• Rashes
Today, stress has become a part of our life. From matters in our personal life to occupational reasons or just other factors that are beyond our control, we all feel the burden of stress. But when the level of stress becomes more than what we can handle, it starts to harm our body. It reduces our physical wellbeing, clouds our judgment, changes our behavior, and even at times becomes a cause for a mental breakdown.
While it is important to take care of our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing, it is also important to protect our skin from the problems arising out of stress. Yes, stress harms our skin by making it more sensitive and reactive. The symptoms can be seen all over our body, but they are usually ignored or considered as something else. The truth is, when we are under stress, an imbalance occurs in our Doshas – Vata Pitta, or Kapha, which leads to inflammation that may escalate or cause skin concerns of various kinds. Let’s take a look at a few of the negative effects stress can have on our skin and some Ayurveda ...
... ingredients that can help cure it.
Triggers Inflammation
Stress has a way of making our body feel it is under attack. When this happens, our body reacts, and by doing so, it creates inflammatory markers or inflammatory cells to help treat the attack. Because of this, an excess of inflammatory cells builds up in our body, causing acne or flare-up of preexisting skin conditions.
A possible solution – Aloe Vera:
Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin while the Vitamin B12 from it can help calm and nourish the dry areas. It can help reduce skin temperature and provide overall relief from irritation and inflammation. Aloe Vera is equivalent to skin’s pH which makes it easy for quick absorption and rejuvenation. In the Ayurvedic view, Aloe Vera heals Pitta Dosha by reducing skin irritation with its natural cooling properties, thus helping with the prevention of acne and red bumps.
Causes Dry Skin
When we start to feel stressed, our body feels the pressure. It then reacts to the situation and tries to cool itself down. To make this happen our body increases the adrenaline, which in turn, activates the sweat glands, and we start to sweat excessively. This causes our body to dehydrate, leaving our skin dry.
A possible solution – Sesame Oil:
Used in over 40% of the Ayurvedic treatments, Sesame oil or Til oil contains vitamin E which helps hydrate and moisturize the skin. It is also very effective when it comes to repairing damaged cells by improving blood circulation. It is popularly known for balancing the Vata Dosha which keeps the skin soft and toned. Upon regular usage of this oil, we will notice glowing and radiant skin as blood circulation of the body improves. Due to its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the oil is widely used for Ayurvedic massage.
Stress Acne Breakout
To help our body cope up with a stressful environment, a set of hormones is produced by our brain to keep our body prepared. Because of this, the Sebaceous gland in our skin starts getting active, which triggers an excess level of oil. This causes the pores to block, and acne breaks out on the skin.
A possible solution - Sandalwood:
Considered to be one of the most sacred ingredients of Ayurveda, Sandalwood or Chandan is packed with rare tri-dosha benefits, balancing all Pitta, Kapha and Vata Doshas. The cooling and calming effects of Sandalwood helps soothe various skin conditions, moisturizes, tonifies, purifies and release skin stress. The astringent and anti-bacterial properties of Sandalwood keep the oiliness to a minimum and also help in fighting acne and breakouts.
Wrinkles and Premature Ageing
When we experience an excessive amount of stress, our body starts to pump more blood into our heart and lungs. This leaves our skin with an inadequate amount of blood, and this is one of the reasons for wrinkles and early signs of ageing which form on our face and neck
A possible solution – Oats:
Natural Oat Kernel extract which is clinically proven to nourish and rejuvenate skin from the effects of stress. Oat Kernel extract is believed to be beneficial for various skin problems. In Ayurveda, the Oat Kernel extract is known to pacify the negative impacts of Pitta Dosha. It helps to strengthen the barrier on the skin, providing protection and helping in the formation of new skin cells. Oat beta-glucan derived from oat kernels was identified as a deep hydrating agent, capable of reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity and accelerating tissue healing. Oat peptides were also found to give thin film barrier protection, stimulate collagen and reduce skin roughness. More collagen can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin. Oat ingredients have a good capability to heal and repair damaged skin from signs of ageing, chemical irritants (soaps, chemical peels, and dyes) and environmental factors (UV exposure, allergens). They also help maintain good skin health by controlling skin hydration, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.
Stress Rash and Redness
Our skin is constantly exposed to various environmental factors that cause micro damages. When we are stressed, our skin’s ability to repair itself is reduced. The skin may itch or cause a tingling sensation. These rashes can be seen on our face, neck, or arms, varying from small dots to large clusters.
A possible solution – Chamomile:
An Ayurvedic herb known for relaxation, Chamomile boasts of powerful anti-inflammatory properties that rejuvenate, help soothe the skin, reducing redness and blemishes. It does wonders for the skin with its skin - softening moisturizing and soothing properties.
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and is useful for treating inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, eczema and as an antipruritic adjunct in the treatment and prevention of skin disorders. Chamomile also helps fade unwanted dark spots and under-eye circles. This plant has softening moisturizing and skin-soothing properties. It also contains antiseptic benefits which help with soothing, treating minor wounds and helping fight skin dryness.
The stress factor in life may not be under our control, how to deal with it is up to us. It’s necessary to maintain a healthy mind and body for a happy life. And one of the most important signs of a healthy body is healthy and glowing skin. Traditional, natural remedies have always proven to be very effective when it comes to providing good skincare, especially to those triggered by stress. With the right amount of care and attention, you can have younger-looking glowing skin, free from the negative effects caused by stress.