How Your skin shows that You are stressed

This is a sensitive topic for most because the leading causes and effects of stress is no laughing matter.

What causes stress?

There are a million number of factors that could provoke it. These are emotional problems, sickness, pregnancy, work, family, exams...Stress may also lead to or develop into mental disabilities like anxiety and depression.

A condition called Cushing's syndrome is caused by increased steroid hormone production, usually due to a brain tumor. It can also be caused by a long period of glucocorticoid intake.

What happens when the Body is undergoing stress

The Brain sends signals to the Body and hormones are released, hormones such as glucocorticoids. They are also known as Steroid Hormones.

The Body always tries to be in balance, and in doing so, may cause more harm.

So, here are some actions of stress hormones. Most of these outcomes happen over a period of time, not immediately.

1. Fragile skin

   The skin becomes thin and friable. The veins(green) can be easily seen and it is more likely to get damaged by injury.



2. Darkened skin

   Some degree of hyperpigmentation may be seen in some areas of the body


3. 
   

   Eye bags and dark circles

   
   This is one of the most evident results of stress. They surface due to lack of sleep, which leads to wearing out of the delicate skin around the eyes.



4. High blood sugar level and High blood fat level

5. Weight gain and weight loss

   There is weight loss on the legs and arms and weight gain on the face and stomach. The body shape is nicknamed 'Lemon-on-sticks'.



6. Breakouts (Acne, pimples)

   This is most likely connected to the high sugar and fat level in the blood. Another reason maybe improper diet. Some people eat more junk when they are stressed. Stress is one of the Modifiable factors that determine one's skin type. 
   
   Breakouts usually reflect early in stress.

7. Dry skin

   When one is undergoing stress, chances are they don't take proper care of themselves. This includes hydration and diet. Where there is an inadequate intake of water. one becomes hydrated. Dehydration can reflect in the form of dry and cracked lips, dry skin, reduced skin elasticity.

8. Decreased immunity, increased risk for infections

   The body, when stressed, has low immunity. The ability to fight off germs reduces. Therefore, there is an increased risk of infections, allergies, sensitivities, etc.

How can stress be tackled?

1. Figure out what is the cause. Is it exams? Your new Boss? Financial issues? loss of a loved one?


2. Some pass with time, they are periodic. An example of this is the exams.


3. Situations such as sickness, depression, anxiety can be for a long period


4. Having kids is amazing, as well as tasking experience. Take a break, even if it is in the form of shopping groceries. Furthermore, take the full opportunity when You have a helping hand.
   

The bottom line is to find what relaxes YOU.

• It may be an escape, say an outing with friends or just a stroll.


• In cases of Depression; Accepting it and talking about it, keeping busy and having company helps


• Talk to someone. that person may be a family or a stranger. There are groups, both online and community that share their experiences and give help. You are never alone in Your problem.


• Exercise often- Yoga and meditation is a great way to relax the nerves


• Think positively; that all things pass with time. Also, they don't last forever


• Give Yourself a treat;  spa, dinner, trip, movie. Change of environment goes a long way.

Most importantly. Take care of Your physical and mental health. Stay hydrated, eat well, stay positive and get help where and when necessary.

How do You deal with stress?

Thanks for reading

Yours in the flawless skin journey, Nafisah NK