When we get super stressed, our body takes a major hit. It
responds by releasing hormones that increase breathing and heart rates, and our
muscles get tighter and ready to respond to the perceived danger. Stress
hormones are designed to help you survive a life-threatening situation. Your
blood pressure and energy levels go up and your body turns off functions that
are not essential to your survival, like digestion and reproduction. It is
times when stress piles on that our physiological response doesn’t turn off and
stress levels stay elevated much longer than necessary. During these bouts,
physical symptoms begin to manifest from the inside out.
Aside from the onset of resting bitch face, stress can do a
number on our good looks. Studies show that long-term stress suppresses the
immune system in all organs, including our skin, making us more susceptible to
infections and even disrupting menstrual cycles, which can lead to hormonal
breakouts.
When we’re stressed, our cortisol levels are disrupted,
which can cause acne and exacerbate conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea
and atopic dermatitis. Our skin, hair and nails are of the lowest importance to
our survival. At times of stress, valuable vitamins and minerals are
prioritized for our body’s vital metabolic processes and the production of
stress hormones. Skin is an external barometer of what is happening internally,
and we often see dull skin at times of fatigue and stress. A dull complexion is
the least of our worries we can also expect more lines and wrinkles, too. Consistently
elevated levels of cortisol is catabolic to the body, meaning we are breaking
down and failing to repair tissues, which leads to decreased collagen and
elastin production.
Whether it’s meditation or micro-needling and skincare,
turning off stress and undoing the damage that’s been done are steps one and
two for getting our bodies back on track. The most important thing is to start
with the intention to care for yourself. Phi Cosmeceutical suggests bringing your skin
routine back to the basics and eliminating any products with added fragrance,
colours or dyes. Sometimes products can begin to irritate your skin during
times of stress. We recommend adding a moisturizer that is not too heavy or
rich which will restore the barrier function of your skin. All Phi moisturizers
are an excellent choice to bring back balance as we have added a complex
peptide to each which help to reduce neurogenic irritation to help calm and
soothe your skin.
According to Haemin Sunim, Buddhist teacher and author of
the mindfulness guide. If you only have a few seconds, take a deep breath and
smile. If you only have 10 minutes, walk around and stretch. With half an hour,
you can take time to do things you like, listen to your favourite songs, have a
conversation with a loved one, or just give yourself time to relax. This is
more important than ever at this crazy time we are all experiencing.
Stay safe and stay home
Much love from Phi
