Stress Less

Whew!  This has been the year of stress, fear, and uncertainty.  Luckily, we’re near the end of this sci-fi/horror movie!  Somebody roll the credits please!  December is finally upon us and I don’t know about you but I’m so glad I made it.  This has been one of the most stressful and trying times for the entire nation and it’s taken a toll on our minds, bodies, and particularly our skin. 

When many of us are dealing with stress we tend to eat or gravitate towards comfort foods such as sweets, carbs, and indulge in a drink or two of alcohol just to clear our mind.  Unfortunately, this can do a number on our skin.  Stress eating can clog our pores and clogged pores leads to unwanted breakouts.  Yep, that unwanted pimple or breakout may just be stress acne.  It can either show up on the face or the back.  By no means am I saying that all acne is stress related.  Acne can be hormonal as well.

Have you ever broke out in hives when you’re anxious our dealing with tons of stress?  You may have attributed it to an allergic reaction to a food or what have you but there is something called stress rashes.  Symptoms of stress rashes appear red and swollen all over the body, particularly the face and arms.  Your body isn’t used to and it’s not equipped to handle this foreign feeling going on inside so it freaks out, hence stress rashes.  Out of habit, we feel the need to scratch and rub the irritated areas to bring some sort of relief but this can lead to inflammation.  Luckily, stress related hives tend to not last long.  A calming oat and chamomile soak or maybe finding ways to take our mind off of what’s causing us to stress can possibly help.

With the year we’ve been dealt it’s hard for many of us to escape stress.  The worrying about ourselves and our loves ones, and the fear of not wanting to get sick has weighed heavy on our hearts and minds.  I’m remaining optimistic for what lies ahead.  Stressing about the unknown can wreak havoc on our bodies.  While taking care of your inner body be mindful of your outer body as well.  Your skin is a beautiful thing that comes in an array of magnificent shades.  Remember, I love to see you #glowoff… #NOILYOURSKINWORTH.