HEALTH CARE

STRESSED OUT SKIN

Take stock to look your best

As we head into the end of the year, the stress from the past nine months is starting to accumulate. October is a great time to take stock of our stress levels and take necessary steps to get us through the rest of the year feeling and looking good.”

What to look out for: · The stress hormone on the skin. Cortisol can cause increased production of oil by the oil glands. It can increase the sensitivity of the skin, can prolong healing and worsen existing conditions. · Rosacea, psoriasis,

dermatitis and eczema are common conditions

associated with stress. These can cause red patchy areas associated with extreme itchiness, burns and blisters. conditions can cause acne lesions, which can take months to fully heal. · Stress may be the primary

reason for unexplained hair loss for men and women.

When someone is under stress hair can go into the telogen (fall-out) phase. Telogen hair loss problem that can occur up to three months after a stressful event. After the initial hair loss, hair usually grows back in six to nine months. · Nail biting is a common

condition with adults and children when stressed.

Other nail conditions can be brittle nails that break and split easily and nails with ridges.

Try the following tips and ideas to alleviate stress.

Tip 1: During this time of the year we seem to run out of time

all the time. Whatever you do, do not neglect your normal skincare regime. To ensure your skin looks spotless, youthful and refreshed, follow your twice-daily skincare program of cleansing, toning and moisturising. Treat yourself to a deep cleansing facial.

Tip 2: Exercise! Even a small amount of exercise can increase the endorphin levels in the blood and suppress cortisol. Not only are endorphins your feel-good hormone, but exercise will increase the oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which will increase healing in areas where needed. A brisk walk around the shopping mall can also count for exercise but we prefer doing it outdoors in the fresh air!

Tip 3: Take time out to do the things you like and do something

for yourself. Yoga, meditation or just doing your favorite thing like arranging a beautiful production of endorphins and serotonin. Also, ensure that you get enough sleep during the busy times. Proper amounts of sleep are required for normal brain diminish mental alertness, which will prevent you from coping with stress well.

Tip 4: We’ve all heard of the term, “you are what you

eat”. Consuming large amounts sugars during the festive period will not only cause mayhem in the way you handle your stress during these times.

Tip 5: We all should know our

limitations. It is ok to say NO sometimes! Saying no limits your boundaries and prevents you from becoming overloaded at work or being taken advantage of by friends and family. It is also ok to speak to somebody when your stress is getting too much for you, whether it is a professional person or a good friend.

The better you protect yourself, the healthier and better looking you will be.

All Pictures Courtesy of 7 Floor Media