The Effect of Relaxation on Your Skin

Relaxing is important for several reasons, but the biggest are your mental and skin health. Stress-related depression and anxiety can contribute to accelerated aging. As you may have noticed, when you are stressed, acne might pop up or redness and irritation. Cells that produce sebum, your skin's natural oils, have receptors for stress hormones. This may also be why many get a shiny face when stressed before a big presentation or project. Stress can also contribute to rashes and even hives. Because of this reaction, you may forget your skincare routine for a while, and make the issue worse.

Relaxing and reducing stress is possible using a few techniques. This can include something as simple as deep breathing or reading a book. You can also try:

- Meditating (guided, mantra, freeform)

- Writing down feelings/ideas/worries

- Take a walk (seriously, a five minute walk can make a huge difference)

- Practice gratitude (through writing, praying, etc.)

- Take a vacation or a stay-cation

It is also important to watch what you eat and when you eat. If you go for a tub of ice cream when you are stressed, you are not doing yourself a favor. When you are stressed, first drink some water and take a moment. Are you actually hunger or stress eating? Eating mindfully and healthy can improve your current mood.

All of these practices will better you mentally and physically. As an anti-aging skincare necessity, sleep and relaxation main advantages to the skin are aiding in reduced stress levels, cell regrowth, hormone production and regulation, and a more relaxed disposition.