These uncertain times can wreak havoc on our internal and external health. The body and skin react to stress in different ways. Here are four ways that stress can affect the health and appearance of your skin and what you can do to combat it. 

Stress can cause the skin to dry out. Stress causes the body to release the fight or flight chemicals, adrenaline, and cortisol. The release of adrenaline causes the body to sweat, which can dry out the skin and cause dermatitis. The result can include dry, flaky, itchy skin or skin that is red and swollen.

Treatment:

• Drink plenty of water. Water helps replenish fluids lost in the body. Remember to drink extra if you are exercising, drinking caffeine or are outside in the heat.
• Rejuvenate your skin with medical-grade skincare products. We offer innovative solutions to address a variety of skin concerns at our office. 

Stress can cause inflammation. A high level of stress can affect gut bacteria, which allows for an overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria. According to a 2014 study, multiple neuroinflammatory conditions can be triggered by stress such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and acne.

Treatment:

• Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation. 
• Go for long walks outside. Be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV radiation.
• Eat healthily. Avoid overprocessed foods and artificial sweeteners. 
• For long-term skin concerns, consider treatments such as eMatrix Sublative Skin Resurfacing or Neo Clear by Aerolase for acne. Chemical peels and dermaplaning can also be very effective treatments for removing dead skin cells to reveal healthier, more vibrant skin. 

Stress can cause increased oil production. Increased oil production can lead to acne breakouts, oily hair, and seborrheic dermatitis. 

Treatment:

• Exercise. Go for a run or swim. Go for a long walk or hike at a local park. Go for a walk along the beach. Exercise is an excellent form of natural medicine for the treatment of stress. Commit to getting at least 30-minutes of exercise each day, preferably outdoors. 
• Topical treatments that contain salicylic acid can be very helpful in unclogging and cleansing the skin. We offer some excellent skincare products. Give us a call and find out how we can help yours. 
• Our chemical peels are available in a variety of strengths allowing us to customize a treatment specific to the unique needs of our clients. 
• Dermaplaning is another great option for reducing the appearance of acne, improving skin tone and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. In dermaplaning, the dull top layer of skin is gently removed, revealing healthy skin below.

Stress can cause the skin to become thinner and more sensitive. The chemical cortisol can cause the breakdown of dermal proteins, resulting in skin that is weaker and more prone to damage. Weak, thin skin can also increase the risk of infection, bruise easily and can slow the ability to heal.  Treatment:

• Eat a healthy diet that primarily includes fruit and vegetables. The antioxidants in these foods will help strengthen and heal the skin.
• Hydrate the skin internally and externally. Drink plenty of water and use ultra-moisturizing skin care products that will protect the skin while also improve its ability to heal and prevent wounds. 
• Vitamins and supplements can fill nutritional gaps to improve health. An IV with vitamins is a great way to get 100% absorption. Give us a call to schedule.