The Link Between Stress and Skin

Ah, the leisurely and laid-back vibes of August. There’s little to worry about… wait, when is the next pickup for the kids from camp? Who accidentally left the garden hose running all day long? Unexpected demands for our energy can crop up at any time, yet the repercussions of persistent stress may linger on our skin for far longer. Understand how stress impacts your complexion and learn how to present your most radiant self this summer with these useful tips.

Our adrenal glands produce hormones such as adrenaline (which prepares us for immediate threats, triggering our “fight or flight” response) and cortisol (which is linked to enduring anxiety, such as that stemming from work deadlines, parenting responsibilities, or traffic delays). These hormones can significantly affect our appearance.

Issue #1: Dark circles around the eyes

Dark circles can turn a beautiful visage into a haunting one. A study investigating the causes and prevalence of dark circles identified insufficient sleep and stress as contributing factors.

Toronto naturopath Dr. Nayumi Saiki elucidates the relationship between stress and sleep: “Under normal circumstances, cortisol levels dip during sleep and rise shortly after waking. However, stress can disrupt this balance, leading to irregular sleep patterns.”

Remedy:

Research indicates that a nightly cup of chamomile tea can help alleviate exhaustion and improve sleep quality. Chamomile is known for its calming effects, making it an excellent choice for soothing frazzled nerves. Additionally, cooled chamomile teabags can be placed on fatigued eyes to diminish puffiness.

Issue #2: Skin damage

The relationship between stress and skin is direct and very pronounced. Stress can exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis, trigger collagen breakdown, and has been associated with the development of wrinkles and delayed healing of wounds.

Remedy:

Vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen and the repair of skin. When shopping, consider incorporating the following Vitamin C-rich foods into your diet:

• kiwis
• oranges
• red peppers
• lemons

“Lemon is a great source of Vitamin C, and don’t forget, the peel is where a lot of the power lies!” asserts holistic nutritionist Carley Simandl. She suggests blending a whole organic lemon into your next smoothie for a potent skin-boosting drink.

For topical application, indulge your skin with high-antioxidant oils such as rosehip. Simandl recommends mixing one drop of helichrysum or frankincense essential oil with five drops of rosehip oil. “These oils are considered precious for skin healing and contain brightening elements beneficial for dull skin,” she adds. Always conduct a sensitivity test with essential oils before application and ensure they are properly diluted.

Issue #3: Hair thinning

Experiencing thinning hair can cause anyone to feel insecure. Levels of cortisol are known to impact hair follicles, and excessive hair loss on a daily basis may be linked to thyroid disorders.

Remedy:

Supporting thyroid health is essential for robust hair growth and managing stress and is aided by minerals like zinc and iodine. Foods rich in zinc include seafood and pumpkin seeds, while incorporating a sea vegetable such as kelp adds iodine to your diet.