Stress and its Damaging Effects on the Skin

The COVID-19 pandemic will go down in history for creating unprecedented changes in our lives; unmatched and unexpected changes that have caused a great deal of stress and suffering.

As a result, many have noticed unusual changes in their skin since the lockdown began. These skin changes are due to the body’s producing the hormone cortisol, which is its natural response to stress.

Cortisol has wide-ranging effects throughout our body, such as immune suppression, inflammation, drying the skin, as well as excessive oil production. Pimples can occur due to increased testosterone, which is stimulated by the cortisol. The testosterone directly impacts oil glands, leading to blocked pores. We may also notice dry patches and a general lack of lustre complexion. This is all our body’s natural response to the stress we are facing.

It is imperative not to neglect your skincare routine, now more than ever. Drink plenty of water, exercise and be kind to yourself. For example, my favourite activity during lockdown has been gentle yoga!

What Can Livenowskincare Offer

Addressing the effects of stress such as a depleted immune system, aged skin and skin inflammation with the following essential skin ingredients:

• Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) is a multitasking skin vitamin that increased skin immunity and reduces skin inflammation (try Vitamin B3).
• Retinol reduces the production of inflammatory factors produced in the skin in response to stress (try Vitamin A).
• L-ascorbic acid Vitamin C is a natural inflammatory and antioxidant that reduces free radical damage on skin cells which leads to ageing and irritation (try Vitamin C)