Every day, we are exposed to stress factors: constant nervous tension at work and home, lack of sleep, and the negative impact of the external environment (sun, wind, dry air from air conditioning). Experts explain how stress affects the skin and what to do about it.
There are two types of stress: acute and chronic. Moderate acute stress is often eustress, or "good stress," which activates the body's functional reserves, aids adaptation, and eventually eliminates the stress itself. Eustress is usually short-term, allowing the body to activate its "life-saving" systems without depleting them, thus "training" the body. Distress, on the other hand, is "harmful" stress that depletes the body's defenses and disrupts adaptation mechanisms, weakening the body and leading to various diseases.
Constant stress slows down collagen production, which already decreases with age. As a result, the skin loses its firmness, wrinkles appear, and pores stretch. Additionally, the synthesis of hyaluronic acid decreases, meaning the dermis becomes less hydrated, leading to a loss of skin fullness and turgor.
The regeneration of epidermal cells slows down: they do not renew properly, causing dead skin cells to accumulate on the surface and give the skin a dull, rough appearance.
Disruption of the skin barrier, sebum synthesis, and imbalance of various strains of skin microbiota lead to dehydration, dryness, irritation, and breakouts. The stress hormone cortisol also indirectly causes the appearance of dark spots.
Ingredients in Skincare Products That Help Deal with Stress
Skincare products often contain ingredients specifically designed to help the skin cope with the negative effects of stress. Here are some key ingredients to look for.
Adaptogens for Stress-Relief and Skin Health
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, ginseng, and rhodiola can help the skin manage stress by reducing inflammation and balancing stress-related hormones. These ingredients are known for their ability to enhance the body's resilience to stress, which can translate to calmer, more balanced skin. Additionally, Bioelements Crucial Moisture is an excellent moisturizer that deeply hydrates and soothes stressed skin. Its rich, emollient formula helps to restore the skin's natural barrier, providing relief from dryness and irritation caused by stress. This product ensures that your skin remains soft, supple, and resilient even in challenging conditions.
The Power of Antioxidants for Skin Protection
Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. They help to neutralize these damaging molecules, preventing premature aging and promoting a healthier complexion. Obagi Medical Professional-C Serum 20% is a potent antioxidant serum that delivers high concentrations of vitamin C to the skin, effectively combating oxidative stress. This serum not only brightens the skin and evens out skin tone but also enhances collagen production, helping to repair and strengthen the skin's structure. Regular use of this serum can significantly improve the skin's resilience to stress, leaving it looking radiant and youthful.
Niacinamide: A Versatile Solution for Stressed Skin
Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that helps to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness, and improve overall skin texture. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and counteract the effects of stress. PCA Skin Vitamin B3 Brightening Serum harnesses the power of niacinamide to provide comprehensive care for stressed skin. This serum not only enhances the skin's barrier function but also works to brighten and even out skin tone. By reducing redness and calming inflammation, it helps to restore a balanced, healthy appearance to your complexion. Regular use of this serum can significantly improve skin clarity and resilience, making it an essential addition to any skincare routine.
Ceramides: The Key to Restoring Stressed Skin
Ceramides are lipids that help to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier. They protect the skin from environmental stressors and prevent moisture loss, keeping the skin plump and hydrated. Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizer is enriched with ceramides to provide intensive hydration and reinforce the skin's barrier function. This moisturizer is particularly effective for stressed skin, as it locks in moisture and shields the skin from harmful external factors. By enhancing the skin's ability to retain moisture, it ensures that the skin remains supple, smooth, and resilient, even under stressful conditions. Regular use of this moisturizer helps to repair and protect the skin, making it a crucial component of any stress-relief skincare regimen.
Peptides: The Building Blocks for Resilient Skin
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can help to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. They also play a role in repairing the skin barrier and enhancing skin resilience. AnteAGE Serum leverages the power of peptides to rejuvenate and restore stressed skin. This advanced serum promotes collagen synthesis, which helps to firm and smooth the skin, reducing the visible signs of aging. Additionally, its reparative properties strengthen the skin's barrier, enhancing its ability to withstand stress and environmental aggressors. Regular application of AnteAGE Serum revitalizes the skin, leaving it more resilient, youthful, and radiant.
Centella Asiatica: Ultimate Calm for Stressed Skin
Centella asiatica, also known as cica or tiger grass, has potent anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It helps to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote the repair of damaged skin. Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Serum Mask harnesses the soothing power of centella asiatica to provide immediate relief to stressed and sensitive skin. This serum-infused mask delivers a concentrated dose of calming ingredients, effectively reducing inflammation and redness. It also supports the skin's natural healing process, accelerating the repair of damaged tissues. Regular use of this mask leaves the skin feeling refreshed, revitalized, and more resilient against daily stressors.
Aloe Vera: A Soothing Balm for Stressed Skin
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps to calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and provide a cooling effect that can be particularly beneficial for stressed skin. IMAGE Skincare ORMEDIC Balancing Facial Cleanser incorporates aloe vera to gently cleanse while calming and hydrating the skin. This cleanser effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture, making it ideal for sensitive and stressed skin. The soothing properties of aloe vera help to reduce redness and irritation, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and balanced. Regular use of this cleanser ensures your skin remains clean, calm, and perfectly balanced, even during stressful times.
IMAGE Skincare ORMEDIC Balancing Facial Cleanser
Shop Now
Chamomile: A Calming Elixir for Stressed Skin
Chamomile extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe the skin and reduce redness. It's particularly beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin types. Palermo Body Hydrating Facial Toner - Rosewater + Chamomile combines the calming benefits of chamomile with the hydrating properties of rosewater to create a perfect tonic for stressed skin. This toner helps to refresh and balance the skin, reducing inflammation and redness. It provides a gentle, soothing experience, making it ideal for use throughout the day to keep your skin calm and hydrated. Regular use of this toner ensures that your skin remains clear, balanced, and resilient against daily stressors.
Palermo Body Hydrating Facial Toner - Rosewater + Chamomile
Shop Now
Probiotics: Balancing and Purifying Stressed Skin
Probiotics help to balance the skin's microbiome, enhancing its natural defenses and reducing inflammation. They are particularly beneficial for stressed skin, which can become more sensitive and prone to breakouts. IMAGE Skincare I MASK Purifying Probiotic Mask harnesses the power of probiotics to purify and rejuvenate stressed skin. This mask works to detoxify the skin, removing impurities and excess oil while promoting a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. The result is clearer, calmer skin that feels refreshed and revitalized. Regular use of this mask helps to maintain a balanced complexion, enhancing the skin's resilience to stress and environmental aggressors.
IMAGE Skincare I MASK Purifying Probiotic Mask
Shop Now
Incorporating products with these ingredients into your skincare routine can help mitigate the negative effects of stress on your skin, promoting a healthier, more balanced complexion.
