How does stress affect your skin?

Stress can seriously mess with your skin — it’s not just in your head, it’s on your face too. Here’s how stress shows up on your skin:

1. Triggers breakouts

Stress increases cortisol, a hormone that boosts oil production, clogs pores, and leads to breakouts — especially around the jawline and cheeks.

2. Inflames skin conditions

If you struggle with acne, eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, stress can make flare-ups worse or more frequent.

3. Weakens your skin barrier

Chronic stress depletes your skin’s natural moisture and lipids, leaving it dry, irritated, and more sensitive.

4. Disrupts repair & glow

Stress affects sleep, which is when your skin regenerates. Less rest = dull, tired-looking skin that takes longer to heal.

5. Increases picking or neglect

Stress can cause people to pick at their skin or neglect their routine altogether — which only makes things worse.

What can I do to help improve stress levels?

Improving your stress levels is one of the most underrated ways to support healthy, glowing skin. Here’s how to manage stress with skin in mind:

1. Create a calming skincare routine

• Slow down and make your routine a ritual, not a chore.

• Use soothing ingredients like niacinamide, panthenol, and centella asiatica.

• Massage your cleanser or moisturizer in for a few minutes — it's both skin therapy and self-care.

2. Practice daily nervous system resets

• Deep breathing, meditation, or breathwork for 5–10 minutes a day can reduce cortisol.

• Try box breathing (inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4) to calm your body fast.

3. Move your body — gently

• Walking, stretching, or yoga supports circulation, digestion, and hormone balance, all of which affect your skin.

4. Prioritize quality sleep

• Aim for 7–9 hours. This is when your skin heals, regenerates, and recharges.

• Create a wind-down routine and cut screens 1 hour before bed to support melatonin.

5. Nourish your body

• Eat more omega-3s, antioxidants, and hydration-rich foods to reduce internal inflammation.

• Avoid excess sugar and processed foods, which can spike cortisol and show up on your skin.

6. Book stress-relief treatments

• Facials, massages, or SOQI infrared therapy can help calm both your mind and your skin.

• Even one deep reset per week can make a visible difference.