What's worse then feeling incredibly stressed? That stress showing up on your face! Unfortunately our skin tends to act as a mirror of our emotions. When we are going through an emotional upheaval breakouts and premature aging can give it away on our face. Understanding the effect stress has on our skin and learning what you can do to fight it will lead to healthier looking skin.

Effects of stress on the skin:
-Being stressed puts an added strain on the nervous system this leads to our immunity been compromised and this means the skin has greater difficulty healing. This means conditions like Acne, Rosacea and eczema are intensified.
-When we get stressed our body releases the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone increases the production of oil, which in turn can cause oily skin and breakouts.
-When we are stressed the free radicals in our body increase. Free radicals are responsible for the physical signs of aging.
-People have a tendency to frown and screw their face up when stressed. Repetition of muscle contractions leads to permanent lines on the face.
-Stress causes the skin's barrier defenses to be compromised leading to water loss which can result in dryness and a decreased healing ability.
-When we are stressed our body does not absorb the nutrients we consume as effectively. This means our skin can miss out on adequate nourishment.

Physical symptoms of stresses skin:
-Increased oil production
-Acne
-Premature wrinkling
-Dryness
-Itchiness
-Increased sensitivity
-Redness
-Dullness
-Clogged pores

What to do about stresses skin:
-Be aware of your facial expressions, try not to frown and screw up the muscles in your face.
-Exercise-exercise increases blood flow and oxygen in the body. This helps distribute vital nutrients to the skin.
-Limit alcohol and caffeine-both act as stimulates which excite the body rather then relax it.
-Quit smoking
-Get adequate sleep-it's not called beauty sleep for nothing.
-Get some sunlight-sunlight exposure is the key ingredient to the production of vitamin D. Vitamin D promotes healthy skin.
-Include some relaxations exercises in your routine. Meditation and breathing exercises will help you relax your facial muscles.

Nutrition:
It is important to provide your body with the right nutrients to help promote healthy skin. Foods to include:
-Garlic-has antiseptic and antibacterial properties which help keep skin clear.
-Increase your intake of Vitamin C foods. Vitamin C assists the production of collagen and helps fight infection. Good sources include; oranges, grapefruit, lemons, blackcurrants and blackberries.
-Eat foods rich in Omega 3 oils. Omega 3's contain potent antioxidants which help with the skin's health. Good sources include; oily fish such as salmon, walnuts and flaxseed oil.
-Include sources of Vitamin A like green leafy vegetables and carrots. Vitamin A can reduce the production of sebum, which is the oil that lubricates the skin and is often in excess in acne sufferers.
-Drink Green Tea-this tea is rich in anti-inflammatory properties.
-Drink plenty of water
-Eat lots of berries-they are rich in phytochemicals which are protective to skin cells. Blueberries, Cranberries and Raspberries are all good choices.

Supplements and herbs:
Most of us are guilty of not getting all the right vitamins and minerals in our diet on a daily basis therefore it is suggested that you also consider some supplements or herbal remedies. Some of the most beneficial to skin include:
-Zinc-taking 30mg of zinc daily can help prevent scarring and aids the skin's restorative abilities.
-Vitamin E-has antioxidant properties that assist with skin healing.
-Detoxifying herbs-it can be beneficial to perform an internal body cleanse. Toxic matter can get stuck in the intestines and can affect the skins appearance. Detoxifying herbs include; Echinacea, Burdock, Dandelion, red clover and blue flag.

Take time for yourself. Every day can’t be a holiday. But do try to schedule 15 to 30 minutes a day just for you. Read a book, practice meditation, go for a walk. Whatever you want to do to take a moment for yourself and regroup. Life is stressful but there’s no need for it to show. So take a deep breath, smell the roses and check with your dermatologist if stress seems to be playing havoc with your skin.