Whenever I travel, obviously I plan to look my very best when I get to the destination! And every time, my skin has other plans and looks just tired - dull, pale with a mild outbreak of eczema. I used to blamed it on the dry air in the plane, the weather or the different food. Once I get home and settled into my routine, my skin starts to clear up and glow again. I got really curious, actually why does my skin behave like that during all of my trips?
The researcher in me had to do some research and I believe my founding are totally worth sharing!
Why does you skin rebel when you're stressed out? That’s no coincidence. When life gets hectic, your body cranks up the production of cortisol, the infamous stress hormone.
While cortisol is handy in a pinch, too much of it can send your skin into overdrive - hello, oily skin, clogged pores, and those annoying breakouts!
Stress can also spark inflammation, making issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis even worse.
But it’s not just about the occasional zit. Chronic stress messes with your skin’s ability to heal and renew itself. This can leave your complexion looking tired, dry, and dull. Even more frustrating, stress can speed up the aging process by breaking down collagen and elastin, the major proteins that keep your skin looking firm and smooth.
So, what’s the antidote? Relaxation! Whether it’s a short a meditation, a bit of yoga, deep breathing, or just getting a good night’s sleep, taking time to unwind can work wonders for your skin.
These practices help keep cortisol in check, reduce inflammation, and boost blood flow to your skin. More circulation means more oxygen and nutrients for your skin cells, giving you that healthy, glowing look we all crave.
Other easy advice would be to stay hydrated, stick to your usual skincare products as much as possible to avoid unexpected reactions, and incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like berries and fish into your diet.
During stressful times, nourish your skin from the inside out with healthy snacks like almonds and fruit. Also try to limit alcohol and caffeine to avoid dehydration (I know, not always easy when you are traveling for fun! :)
And also don’t forget, regular facial massages can strongly enhance blood flow in your skin.
In short, by taking a bit of extra care of your mind and your body, you’re also taking care of your skin - giving it the chance to look and feel its best, even during stressful times.
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