Scientists have shown that stress can impact your skin and appearance as well as your physical and mental health.
Little wonder, then, that many Brits are feeling the pandemic experience is starting to show. Research by the Mental Health Foundation showed that nearly 3 in 4 (74% of UK) have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
How Stress Affects Body and Skin
Stress is the body’s reaction to threat or pressure, usually mental or emotional.
The hypothalamus in the brain triggers release of hormones which prepare the body to deal with stress in the same way as it would with danger – nature’s ‘fight or flight’ response.
However, raised stress hormone levels on a regular basis can cause adverse impact to your skin, causing imbalances that result in skin problems and affect your appearance as well as your wellbeing.
1. Acne Flare Ups
Many people suffer an acne flare up when stressed. The face has more cell receptors for hormones than any other part of your body and therefore is susceptible to hormone spikes which cause surges in glucose sent to the skin. This results in excess sebum production, spots and inflammation. The hormone cortisol also affects the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, causing skin to look dull as it lacks important vitamins and minerals.
2. Dark Circles / Eye Bags
Stress can cause significant disturbance to sleep patterns, which tends to result in eyebags that can be dark and/or puffy.
In addition, sleep deprivation increases signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Lines & Wrinkles
Stress causes changes to the proteins in your skin and reduces its elasticity. This loss of elasticity can contribute to wrinkle formation.
Stress may also lead to repeated furrowing of your brow that may also contribute to the formation of wrinkles.
4. Poor Skin Condition
Stress doesn’t always cause oiliness and acne – for some clients, it can leave the skin looking dry.
When the skin’s barrier is not functioning optimally, then the skin can lose hydration and suppleness, causing fine lines and wrinkles to look more pronounced. The skin can also be prone to patches of rough texture.
5. Skin Complaints
Stress can make you more susceptible to a range of skin complaints, as the skin is more vulnerable and the body’s immunity can be impacted too. Issues may include inflammation, Rosacea and Eczema or psoriasis.
Skin Treatments For Stress-Related Issues
Many clients are struggling with skin problems at the moment. Normally we can help with clinic-based treatments that work to boost the condition of the skin and stimulate recovery and healing. While the clinic is closed during lockdown, we are unable to offer face to face treatments.
However, there is plenty of evidence that carefully chosen, intensive skincare regimes could help. Even though Mulberry House Clinic remains closed for treatments, we are able to help clients with advice and skincare products, including prescription-only items designed for advanced treatments.
Skin Consultations Via Skype
Mulberry House Clinic is offering remote consultations with Dr John Tanqueray.
- Consultation via Skype
- Tailor-made regimes for acne, rosacea, pigmentation and anti-ageing
- Top brand prescription skin care products available
- Cosmeceutical products despatched by post
- Skype follow-up appointments to review and adjust your skin care according to results
To book a Skype consultation, please call 01604 702630 or email info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with vast experience of the industry. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who works closely with leading manufacturers to remain at the forefront of the medical aesthetics.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
