We all see the TV commercials and advertisements, where some of the most beautiful people we’ve ever seen — who “supposedly” have skin problems — have radiant, glowing skin. Where are the breakouts, uneven skin tones and even chronic problems like eczema or rosacea? This is a perfect example of why we’ve been taught to hate our skin. Even the people talking about their skin challenges have nearly perfect skin! It makes it a little difficult to look in the mirror, doesn’t it?

The simple truth is that everyone can learn how to love the skin they’re in. But first, it’s both helpful and important to understand why it’s been pounded into our heads for so long that our skin just isn’t good enough. Let’s try to understand why.

 

Your Face Is Your First Impression

If you grew up in a normal, everyday household, you may have heard a time or two that a clean, smiling face can help you make your best first impression. Sure, everyone responds to a big smile at a meeting, a high-school reunion or when having lunch with friends. But, what does a “clean” face actually mean?

Of course, to overcome the most common skincare challenges, we all know that we have to observe the rule of the big three:

1. Clean
2. Tone
3. Moisturize 

But unfortunately, many people have confused the idea of cleanliness with a perfect, blemish-free complexion. Yet, we all know that if we’re suffering from some skin problems, no amount of scrubbing and exfoliating can help — at least, not consistently. 

So, when you look into the mirror and see a couple of pimples or a patch of dry skin, you may automatically feel ashamed. Will people think I’m dirty? Does it look like I haven’t washed my face all week? What will people think?

These thoughts happen at any age. It’s not just teenagers who experience these skin-related challenges and feelings of self-doubt. As we start to grow older and our bodies and skin both begin to change, that doesn’t mean that we say goodbye to pimples and blackheads forever. In fact, it often means that we learn to cope with a series of other skincare challenges, starting with fine lines and wrinkles.

The bottom line is that, due to years of negative thoughts, our skin can cause us to feel ashamed. However, we’re all dealing with challenges — even those models in the magazines. 

And while keeping your face “clean” is definitely an important ritual, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll never have the occasional breakout or even more significant challenges. After all, we’re all human.

 

Your Skin Is What Makes You Beautiful

It looks like we have a whole lot of reprogramming to do here, doesn’t it? Well, so many people — primarily women — feel as if the foundation of their beauty relies on their skin. If you haven’t figure this out already, that type of outlook can be exhausting! 

No one’s skin is blemish-free every day, so you can’t ride this emotional roller coaster, especially when stress can actually make your skin conditions worse! Many women judge whether or not they’ll have a good day by their skin when they wake up in the morning. Not only is this unhealthy, but it’s definitely no way to live.

Instead, you need to have a revolution from within! To turn around the relationship that you have with your skin, you can’t constantly judge it, or even be angry with it. After all, it’s not “turning against you,” and it’s not a punishment for eating too much chocolate. 

While your skin reacts negatively to numerous harmful lifestyle factors, and can definitely “act up” when you aren’t washing your face every morning and night, this isn’t in retribution. Create a balance with your skin — one that doesn’t affect how you feel the entire day, or make you angry when you look in the mirror. You are NOT your skincare challenges.

 

Your Face Is the First Thing to Go

As we grow older, we know that eventually we’re going to begin to show some signs of aging. And while we’d all like to keep our bodies from our 20s, a study shows that women really worry about their faces and how they may begin to wrinkle or shoe fine lines. In fact, these percentages of women regularly worry about their faces and skin aging:

• Under 25 – 28%
• 25-34 – 42%
• 35-45 – 54% 

But, when women hit 55, the percentage begins to decrease. So, what does that tell us? 

With the sage transformation also comes wisdom, and women grow to understand that growing older is a natural process, but they can still have healthy, beautiful skin — as long as they care for it. It isn’t “the end.”

 

Turn the Tables

Once you can begin to understand why we’ve been taught to hate our skin, then the faster you can begin to provide a healthier balance, filled with nurturing skincare and image-positive thoughts. It’s never too late to turn the tables on your skin, and to appreciate it for the all-important organ that it is.

 

 

When it comes to taking care of your skin, age really is just a number. While there may be certain techniques and regimens that target aging skin, there are still skincare musts for all ages. 

You see, when it comes to developing a skincare plan that works for your individual needs, there are certain basics that every person should adhere to, regardless of your age or skin tone. And do you know what the best part is? You can start taking better care of your skin at any age. Are you react to learn more?

1. Stop Seeing Your Skin as the Enemy

While we’d all enjoy saying — truthfully — that we really love the skin we’re in, it’s not too helpful to tell a big old white lie! In fact, coming to terms with our own bodies, our skin and our personal goals is something that many of us have had to work really hard toward achieving. So, let’s not ruin the work that you’ve already put it now!

But, the simple matter is that many of us look in the mirror and often hate what we see. Whether it be an unexpected breakout or a pimple right in the middle of your forehead, it’s there. And, sadly, it makes you feel bad about yourself for the entire day. Do you have a big meeting? Are you speaking in front of the PTA board? Do you have a romantic dinner planned? Well, now it feels as if your skin is going to be to blame if things go awry.

However, if you’ve grown to understand your skin, and really listen when it’s trying to give you a hint, then you know it’s not “out to get you.” Like every other organ of your body (and yes, your skin is an organ!), it just likes to stay balanced. If you can begin by changing your mindset when it comes to your skin, you’ll find that the next steps will often come quite naturally.

 

2. Avoid Stress Like the Plague

Sometimes, we all find ourselves in situations where stress seems unavoidable. Perhaps you have a big deadline coming up at work, or your in-laws are coming over — for the second time this month. Whatever the situation, you allow it to take control… and BAM! You have a nice little breakout on your hands. (Well, it’s really on your face, but you get the idea.)

When I tell you that stress can wreak absolute havoc on your skin, it isn’t an understatement or an exaggeration. Stress can make you physically ill, so isn’t it safe to say that it could be responsible for a patch of pimples?

So, how do you avoid stress, but still live a busy, hectic, successful life? Just as you changed the way you look at your skin, you can also choose to change your attitude toward stress. 

As the late, great Walt Disney once said, “Why worry? If you’ve done the very best you can, worrying won’t make it any better.” While we can’t always adapt a fantasy-world attitude in all situations, on this one, it’s a perfect fit!

 

3. Drop the Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices

Everyone has that one vice that may be difficult to stop turning back to, especially if you’re stressed. (Do you see how this all works together?) But, when you’re racking up the poor choices like the bonus points on your Macy’s card, then it may be time to take a good, hard look at your decision-making process.

Point blank, lifestyle choices can lead to unhealthy skin. This can include:

• Not protecting your skin from the damaging rays of the sun
• Smoking — whether it be cigarettes or other options
• Not getting the proper amount of sleep
• Lack of hydration
• Skipping out on your skincare regimen
• Stress (Yep, we mentioned it one more time!)

Additionally, pay attention to when you experience breakouts. You can even keep a journal! You may actually be able to pinpoint the exact culprit.

 

4. Never Miss the Big Three

Somewhere along the line, a dangerous rumor was spread that you just need to start taking care of your skin when it shows signs of aging. After all, that would be quite convenient, wouldn’t it?

However, by now, you’ve probably learned that some skin damage and effects of aging may be improved, but it can’t just be erased. That is, unless you’re willing to consider plastic surgery. And, that doesn’t sound like too much fun, does it? Also, it might really dig into that vacation fund!

When you look at how to build your skincare regimen, don’t look at it as “having” to use specific products A, B and C. That’s not how this works. What’s singularly more important is, as you may have guessed, developing the routine and sticking to it. 

In other words, never miss skincare’s Big Three, which includes:

• Cleaning
• Toning
• Moisturizing

It’s imperative to wash your face every night with a gentle cleanser — with no exceptions! Makeup that remains on your face overnight will most likely clog your pores, and can also lead to more wrinkles and fine lines. 

Now, you may not have guessed it, but using a toner may even be more important than washing your face. Why? Toner can help lower the skin’s pH level, as well as balance and calm it.

Finally, your choice of moisturizer steps in to create a replenished environment for your skin. Many opt to use a different moisturizer for around the eyes, which both hydrates and tones. For your entire face, make a selection that promotes elasticity, clarity and an even texture. This is definitely a skincare must!

 

In a Nutshell

You may have noticed a pretty obvious theme in what you’ve been reading. While we can take every positive action under the sun, if we don’t change our attitudes, then we’ll usually end up right back at the drawing board, where we hate our skin.

Before you begin buying new eye creams and doing that morning meditation, first learn how to understand your skin, your stress levels and even why you opt for the choices you make. Once you can create that balance, it will make every decision that follows that much easier. 

Isn’t that a beautiful plan?

 

In this day and age, it seems that we’re always in this imaginary “competition” with models in ads or other celebrities that we see on television. In this mythical world, where common skincare challenges don’t seem to exist, it can be difficult to look in the mirror and see a blemish — any type of blemish — no matter how small or how noticeable.

However, your connection with your skin can mean a lot more than just whether or not you have breakouts or flareups. And the sooner you begin to realize that, the quicker you can begin to “love the skin you’re in.” 

Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you get started!

Pay Attention to Your Diet 

If you’ve ever heard the expression “you are what you eat,” it’s much more than just an old adage. In fact, it can greatly affect the relationship that you have with your skin.

You see, the lifestyle choices that you make every day can often be the differentiating factor between whether you’ll have healthy, glowing skin, or if you’ll be plagued with a dull, dry or oily complexion. So, what kind of diet should you follow to love the skin you’re in?

For starters, do your best to “eat clean.” What this means is eating fresh foods that are not processed or contain additives. Sticking to a diet that restricts dairy and sugar, but is high in unsaturated fats and fresh vegetables, will also do the trick.

However, for specific skincare needs, you can also try the following.

To tighten your skin – Foods rich in Vitamin C have actually been shown to help tighten the skin, especially oranges. They also contain collagen, which can help slow the skin’s aging process.

To help clear your skin from blemishes – According to Healthline, there is a whole list of foods that can help keep your skin clear, including:

• Tomatoes
• Brown rice
• Turkey
• Blueberries
• Spinach
• Carrots
• Sweet potatoes

 

Go a Little More Natural

By now, you probably already know that makeup can clog your pores, which can then lead to breakouts and all sorts of other skin challenges. But, learning to love your skin means that you love the way your skin looks — naturally. 

Now, this doesn’t mean that you must choose to never wear makeup, but start looking at makeup as a way to accentuate your particular skin, rather than cover it up.

If you work from home or have lazy Sunday afternoons, give your face a “makeup break,” and instead, pamper it with an all-natural face mask, or splurge on that moisturizer that you’ve had your eye on for a while now.

 

Steer Clear of Stress

When you’re making a real effort to pamper your skin, one of the most important things you can do is avoid stress — quite like the plague that it is. Of course, there are always situations where moments of stress can’t be avoided. However, if you can minimize it as much as possible, then you’re on the right path.

Worrying about your skin can cause stress, and stress can cause skin breakouts. So, as you can see, it’s a bit of a vicious circle. Try to surround yourself with people who are positive and give you plenty of reasons to love yourself — including your skin. If you follower influencers on any of your social media platforms, be sure to take tips from those who are body — and skin — positive. Never hate your skin again!

 

Stop Poking and Picking At Your Skin

We saved this one for last because, unbelievably, it’s actually the most difficult habit to overcome when it comes to your skin. When you see a pimple or a blackhead, your first instinct is probably to start squeezing and popping, even though it’s causing damage to your skin. However, avoiding this at all costs is a skincare must!

The lengths that people will go to when they don’t like their particular skin tone is too extreme, especially when they actually consider bleaching their faces. And, to the other extreme, many bronzers can be harmful to your skin and, you guessed it, can severely clog your pores. We all know where that leads now, don’t we?

Instead, treat any skin blemishes with all-natural solutions, whenever necessary. Using harsh skincare products with questionable ingredients is also not a good idea. Sometimes, all your skin needs is to be washed with warm water and a gentle cleanser, patted dry, and topped off with a good moisturizer. Easy, right?

 

In Closing

As mentioned, understanding how to love the skin you’re in requires that you completely revolutionize — from within. Take a step each day to appreciate the uniqueness of your skin, whether it be your freckles or the radiant flush you may experience when you’re happy. Chances are that these are all things your loved ones have already noticed. Now it’s your turn!

 

 

 As you go about your daily life, you may not always give that much thought to your skin — until something happens that causes you to take notice. This can include any type of unhealthy skin condition or common skincare challenges. They can range from a severe sunburn to skin challenges like rosacea, eczema and more. It can also include the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. As long as your skin radiates a beautiful glow, you may neglect the care that it needs to retain that image. This also means you may start to avoid lifestyle choices that can lead to unhealthy skin.

However, having beautiful skin is more about just appearances. Lifestyle choices can greatly determine whether you have healthy skin. They can also be a factor in how you feel about the “skin you’re in.”

Let’s take a look at five factors that can lead to some common skin challenges. That way, you can begin to build a better relationship with your body and how you care for it.

1. Poor Sun Protection

Okay, so it’s the 21st century, and whether or not the sun damages your skin is no longer a mystery. In fact, the chances are good that you know someone who is even battling skin cancer at this exact moment. After all, over 5 million new cases are diagnosed every year.

Now, these aren’t scare tactics, but just basic facts about how you need to care for your skin. Even running errands out in the sun all day can cause sun damage to your exposed skin. This is why many are opting to use foundation or moisturizers with an SPF.

And when it comes to having a beach day, always wear a wide-brimmed hat. Remember, your scalp is also made of skin, and it can burn easily in the direct sunlight. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that you wear an SPF 30, which should block around 97% of the sun’s rays. If you really don’t want to take any chances, there are even swimsuits and other pieces of clothing made from fabric that blocks harmful UV rays.

 

2. Smoking

There are numerous reasons that smoking is bad for your overall health. But, when it comes to your skin, it’s the nicotine that really creates the worst problems. Nicotine can inhibit the flow of oxygen and blood — even to the skin. When this happens, the skin doesn’t receive the nutrients and the oxygen that it needs to stay healthy.

And you’ve probably heard about all of those other toxic chemicals in tobacco-related products, right? Well, those can be problematic, too. They can reduce the collagen and elasticity in the skin, leading to a less-than-youthful appearance. Smoking is definitely one of the primary lifestyle choices that leads to unhealthy skin. So, taking steps to stop smoking as soon as possible is a good skincare must!

 

3. Stress

We all know by now that stress can cause all sorts of health problems. They can range from high blood pressure to strokes and heart disease. But, stress isn’t exactly great for your skin, either. Plain and simple — stress can wreak havoc on your skin. It can manifest in the form of unexpected breakouts and flare ups of any skin disorder that you may battle. 

Stress can increase inflammation, cause hormonal changes and release little spikes in adrenaline. These are all factors that can be terrible for your skin. Plus, you may even pick up stressful habits that can impact the condition of your skin. This can include rubbing your face and transferring oil and other debris.

4. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Our bodies (and our minds) need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every day to function. Many even suggest an ample 8-10. If you find that you’re barely scraping by on 5 hours of sleep, then you may be creating a cycle that will have serious ramifications for your entire body — your skin included.

It’s important to understand that, when you aren’t suffering from sleep deprivation, your body secretes certain hormones that can ensure it produces enough collagen. This will keep the skin healthy and supple. However, if your body is lacking the proper requirements for healthy sleep, then it can produce too much cortisol. This can lead to serious breakouts and inflammation.

 

5. Lack of Hydration

For some reason, many people find it difficult to get in those 8 glasses of water every day. Yet, not being properly hydrated can create problematic situations for many different body parts and processes. And you guessed it, that also includes your skin!

Not drinking enough water can make your skin dry and flaky. It may also present a dull appearance. Some people also experience itchiness and discoloration. And since water helps flush out toxins from the entire body, it definitely makes sense that being dehydrated (or close to it) can also create acne breakouts and other blemishes.

 

6. Neglecting Your Skincare Regimen

We all lead very busy lives, so it’s understandable that spending 10 minutes in front of the mirror at the end of a long day may not be that appealing. However, to combat breakouts, premature aging and inflammation, the extra effort is totally worth it.

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser of your choice, and be sure to remove all remnants of the day’s makeup. Pat your face dry and top it all off with a hydrating moisturizer. Also, add any other specialty products that you like to use.

If you’re in a rush, you can always use a facial wipe. However, actually taking the time to wash your face is always preferred. Just always be sure to try any new products on a small section of skin to make sure that you don’t have an adverse reaction.

Taking care of your skin is an investment, and not one to be taken lightly. Often, a change has to come as a revolution from within, as you decide that the appearance — and the health — of your skin is important to you.

No one has perfect skin. But, the way in which we care for our skin can greatly reduce the chances of breakouts, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven textures and more serious, chronic skin conditions. Make the conscious decision to make caring for your skin a priority today. Avoid those lifestyle choices that can lead to unhealthy skin for good!

 

 

 

 

Most people, regardless of age, geographic location or other lifestyle factors, experience some form of skincare challenges — even if only on a temporary basis. They can be very dramatic, creating a situation where a professional is definitely needed. Or, sometimes it may just take a little self love to identify some of the most common skincare challenges.

In your busy, everyday life, stress can impact your skin, as well as a thousand choices that you make regarding product usage and your skincare regimen. However, learning to find solutions to the most common skin-related stumbling blocks is a great way to get back on track.

Let’s get started!

1. Breakouts

According to Medscape, approximately 50 million Americans experience some level of acne on a somewhat regular basis. And if you’re thinking these numbers rest solely in the range of adolescence, then you’re absolutely wrong. In fact, some people who never had acne as a teenager may begin to see breakouts during adulthood.

Now, the recurrence of acne among women is much more prevalent than with men, which may make it much easier to see why acne can often occur and be so problematic. Most acne in adults is a result of clogged pores and varying levels of inflammation — all things that can arise when makeup is not removed at night, or the skin is otherwise not properly cared for on a daily basis.

When you think about acne, this can include having pimples, blackheads and other pustules. And while the best treatment for any skin-related challenge is to become more healthy overall, remember:

• Not to pick at your skin blemishes
• Watch how the foods that you eat affect your skin, especially sweets
• Avoid stress and dehydration
• Wash your face every morning and night
• Stay away from thick, heavy makeup that doesn’t allow your skin to breathe

 

2. Rosacea

Many times, rosacea can be confused with acne, due to one of its similar symptoms of pimple-like bumps. However, many people suffering from rosacea can also experience redness on the nose and the cheeks (almost like a “flushing”) and dilated veins.

As with acne, more women than men do find rosacea to be a challenge, but the cause is more of a mystery. While many find that it may be hereditary, daily lifestyle and environmental metrics may also be the culprit. Additionally, it does typically occur in women with more mature skin.

While a good skincare regimen is always encouraged, hygiene has not been identified as a cause of rosacea. However, if you want to attempt to limit your flare ups, try to avoid:

• Being outside in extreme temperatures
• Spicy foods
• Alcoholic beverages
• Sunlight
• Medications that can dilate the blood vessels

 

3. Eczema

Sometimes also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema can be an uncomfortable skin condition that can usually lead to redness and chronic itching. Many people may also experience thick, almost-scaly, cracked skin, along with swelling and raised bumps. It also prevents yet another one of the most common skincare challenges, and keeps many people from truly loving their skin.

Eczema usually appears for the first time during childhood. However, it can come and go in the form of flare ups, lasting on into adulthood.

While eczema has no actual cure, there are a few tips that can help decrease or lessen its symptoms. Be sure to:

• Use a good moisturizer twice daily — at least
• Find out what triggers your eczema, such as stress, allergies or products
• Avoid long showers or baths with hot water
• Stop using harsh soaps that can dry out your skin
• Pat your skin dry to avoid irritations

 

4. Uneven Skin Texture

If you’ve ever experienced any degree of an uneven skin texture, then you’ll easily relate to this description. When your skin is uneven, the texture can feel bumpy and dry, and your pores can either appear too large or basically nonexistent. Your skin may also feel rough, and it can completely lose its healthy glow, which is also one of the most common skincare challenges.

Uneven skin texture can be caused by numerous things, but it primarily originates as a buildup of dry or dead skin cells. Smoking and aging may also be factors, along with too much sun exposure.

Thankfully, having an uneven skin texture doesn’t have to be a chronic problem. Instead, it can be improved by:

• Gently exfoliating to remove dry skin and dead cells
• Increasing your vitamin C intake for skin that is darker in color (hyperpigmentation)
• Using plenty of sunscreen to help with enlarged pores and sun spots
• Hydrating both your body and your skin
• Getting enough sleep

 

5. Excessively Oily Skin

Scientifically speaking, oily skin is the result of the body creating too much sebum, which comes from the sebaceous glands. When produced in the right amount, sebum actually makes your hair have the silky, shiny effect, as well as keep your skin properly moisturized. But when there’s too much, it can manifest in shiny, oily skin that is far from that “slightly dewy” or matte look that you may be hoping to achieve. 

Just like dry skin, which, as we’ve mentioned, can be a symptom of eczema and uneven skin texture, excessively oily skin can be a temporary challenge or something more chronic. Some battle problems with too much oil their entire lives (often resulting in acne breakouts), while it may also simply be due to environmental factors.

But, if you’re rather tired of the constant blotting for oil and excess moisture, and “powdering your nose,” there are a few steps you can take.

• Never skip washing your face and carefully patting it dry
• Drink plenty of water to decrease the oil in your glands
• Use skincare products that are oil-free
• Stop touching your face out of habit or stress
• Always use an SPF 30 when you’ll be outdoors — even if just running errands

The more you begin to learn about “the skin you’re in,” the less often you will experience feelings of hopelessness, or even being “mad” at your skin and its challenges. As you start to make better lifestyle choices and treat your skin like the amazing, protective organ that it is, you’ll certainly begin to see a difference in its appearance — and how you feel about it. Additionally, you can also avoid some of the most common skincare challenges, and follow the basic skincare musts. 

 

We’ve all had those days when we experience skin breakouts, causing us to feel ashamed, and often resorting to thick concealers and other solutions that can clog our pores and make our skin challenges even worse. So, first of all, know that you’re not alone. This can happen to anyone — of any age or walk of life. Why? Well, stress can wreak havoc on your skin!

When we think about stress, it’s usually regarding the mental and spiritual toll that it can have on our lives. However, it’s important to keep in mind that stress can also create outbreaks, or worsen a number of skincare challenges, including:

• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Eczema
• Hives

But, how does stress manifest in such a way that it affects your skin, the body’s largest organ? Let’s have a closer look at five of the most common ways.

 

1. Connection of the Mind and Skin

As mentioned, the first thing that pops into the mind when you’re having a breakout, probably isn’t why you’ve been anxious or stressed out lately. Can your skin challenges actually seem more psychologically, rather than medically, based? Is there really a connection of the mind and skin?

Well, the blanket answer is that not everyone experiences stress in the same ways, and not all skin challenges are caused by the same factors. However, the skin and the mind have the type of relationship that most people can’t possibly imagine.

Since the skin wraps around the body’s organs, the nerve endings that connect to the skin can play a big part in emotions manifesting through the skin. Just as stress can cause other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or stomach-related problems, it can also be the root of temporary, unexpected breakouts, or even longer bouts of unhealthy skin.

 

2. Spikes in Adrenaline

To learn a little more about what happens in your body when you’re feeling especially stressed, think about the fight-or-flight response. Our minds begin to prepare a way to combat the feelings or, if that doesn’t work, a way to escape them. When this happens, you experience spikes in adrenaline, and with this rise, you begin to sweat more. 

Surely, we’ve all experienced that heavy perspiration when we think we’ve lost our keys in the grocery store, or we remember an important task that is now embarrassingly late. This is the body’s way of cooling itself down, quite like the steam that flows from an overheated car engine.

Yet, when this happens, we can become dehydrated, often never even realizing it. In this way, the skin can become dry, creating a trigger for a number of skin conditions. This can be especially prevalent in more mature skin.

 

3. Increased Inflammation

We touched briefly on how stress can affect the stomach — the gut, in particular. Did you know that being stressed can actually slow down your digestion? It can, creating a chain of events to follow, ending in increased inflammation.

One of the first things to occur is the growth of unhealthy bacteria. In essence, this basically disrupts the often-precarious balance of the gut, as stress makes digestion more and more of a challenge. This also explains why your stomach can hurt when you’re particularly anxious or worried. (No, it’s not all “in your mind!”)

As digestion is slowed, the gut can begin to leak, causing inflammation. And, as the inflammation increases, it can trigger noticeable skin conditions.

 

4. Hormonal Changes

When you experience stress, the body begins to prepare to combat those situations. It sends a signal to the brain to begin producing more cortisol, which in turn provides energy (in the form of glucose) for that fight-or-flight reaction that we’ve already discussed, resulting in temporary hormonal changes.

More energy sounds great, right? However, one drawback is that these hormones can cause the glands to produce more oil, which can block the pores. And, we all know what follows when we have pore blockages!

Plus, no one really wants the appearance of oily skin. That’s just one more reason not to allow stress to wreak havoc on your skin!

 

5. Stress-Reducing Habits

It seems that every person who experiences some level of stress may pick up little stress-reducing habits that will help them to calm down. Some of these are harmless, but others can inflict harm upon the body — most specifically the skin.

Have you ever been frustrated, and rubbed your face vigorously to try to regain your composure? Have you ever seen anyone scratching their head, trying to contemplate an answer to a problem?

These are both ways that we may try to calm our minds, but they can affect our skin in a similar way that lifestyle choices make an impact. Remember, when you touch your face, the oil and dirt on your hands will transfer, clogging the pores or causing irritations. Even scratching your head can damage the skin, sometimes ending in abrasions. It’s a skincare must to avoid touching your skin!

So, the bottom line is that we need to learn that “being mad” at your skin is no way to achieve positive results. Since we know that stress can cause problematic skin issues, this can create a circle of challenges. Stress affects the skin, which, in turn, can make you even more stressed. There has to be a better way, right?

Well, it’s definitely time for a revolution from within! Now that you know more about how stress can wreak havoc on your skin, you can begin to work at the root of the problem. Find the best way — for your particular needs — to manage your stress levels. Then, simply wait for your skin to adjust and begin to heal — from the inside out. It really can be that beautiful!