During the holiday season we are supposed to be happy and jolly even though we have to go to work every day, take care of our family and household, attend holiday parties, shop until you drop for holiday presents, wrap all the presents, send out holiday cards, bake cookies….All while managing the finances to make sure you can survive until the new year. It’s hard to be jolly and stay in the festive mood to give. Most of us call this time of year STRESSFUL. Sometimes I feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done.

Unfortunately, stress does a lot more than just make you cranky. It can actually wreck havoc on your skin. Stress can exacerbate problems you already have with your skin and even create more problems you haven’t experienced in the past. Stress causes the formation of the “stress hormones” adrenaline, cortisol and DHEA, which induce a range of physiological responses intended to help you survive the stress you are going through. Even though these hormones can help you through this hard time they do come with several side effects. You can experience increased oil production, reduced immune system response and increased inflammation. Symptoms can be mild to severe and can include acne flare ups, hives, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and cold sores.

There are several things you can do to reduce the effects of stress such as meditation, regular exercise, massages and making sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Maintaining a healthy diet can also help the effects of stress on your body and skin by giving it the nutrients it needs to stay strong and vibrant. Getting adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can be beneficial as it has anti-inflammatory properties among many other health benefits. Don’t like fish? You can get your omega-3 fatty acids in pill form, which can be purchased at any vitamin supplement retailer.

Have you taken the steps needed to reduce the amount of stress in your life, but you’re still fighting the effects of stress on your skin? Don’t worry; I can help you put your best face forward. Call me today for your free consultation and skin analysis and you will be on your way to healthier looking skin!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!