Stress, Skin, and the Mind-Body Connection

Stress is something everyone experiences it at some point in their lives. We often think of stress and how it affects our mental state, however, stress can affect your entire body, including the health of your hair, skin, and nails.

When we experience stress, our skin can show signs of fatigue and may promote acne, redness, or discomfort. But research shows that not all stress is bad for us. Some forms of stress may benefit our health – including the skin.

In fact, there is such thing as "positive stress." This is the brief stress we feel when we care about the task at hand, such as a zoom meeting with colleagues or helping our kids get ready for school. Studies have shown that positive stress can release oxytocin (aka the love hormone), which counters the effects of too much breakout-causing cortisol as well as neuropeptides that lead to itchiness. One study has also suggested that positivity may be correlated to faster skin barrier recovery, or the skin's ability to heal.

Stress, Skin, and the Mind-Body Connection
The skin contains a plethora of nerve endings that are in constant contact with the brain. This is why fear can lead to goosebumps, excitement can lead to sweat and embarrassment can lead to hot, flushed cheeks.

While it's not possible to think your way to healthy skin, it can help to channel stress in healthier ways, which can have positive effects on your whole body – including your skin.

How to Stress Positive
Our Dermalogica Estheticians believe in "stressing positive," or embracing stress as an opportunity that leads to a positive outcome. Here are a few skin-healthy ways to stress positive:

Practice mindfulness.
Be aware of what you can and can't control. If you are feeling "stressed out," take a quick moment to shift focus to what you can control. Your skin may thank you.

Open your eyes.
Your eye area is often the first to show signs of stress. When you're about to take on a challenging task, give your eye area a quick massage with a hydrating product like Stress Positive Eye Lift by Dermalogica This can help energize your skin and reduce visible signs of fatigue.

Breathe deeply.
Chronically stressed people often take frequent shallow breaths without realizing it. This can make anxiety worse. Remind yourself to breathe deeply and slowly. Try misting an aromatherapeutic product like UltraCalming™ Mist beforehand to refresh your senses and hydrate your skin.

We create highly customized regimens and services for every individual because we know that no two skin conditions are the same. Our products work best when they are recommended by a professional skin therapist for your unique skin. Whatever your lifestyle, background or environment, rest assured that Dermalogica will work for you.