How Stress Can Affect Your Skin

April is Stress Awareness Month and we wanted to talk about the impact undue stress and anxiety can have on the condition and appearance of our skin, as well as what can be done to lessen the effects.

We all know that when we're stressed, tired or generally feeling low, this can be revealed in our skin. It might be a break out of acne or redness, dry, flaky skin or topical inflammation like Eczema or Psoriasis. When the body experiences stress, its natural regulators can become unbalanced, including the immune system, which can cause physical changes and reactions in the skin.

Along with getting a good night's sleep, staying hydrated and eating a well-balanced diet there are many ingredients and products we stock that could help with skin irritations. 

For eczema-like conditions and irritated, itchy skin, we recommend our best selling Skin Rescue Balm, which contains our signature herb, Marshmallow. Marshmallow root is filled with a substance called "mucilage", a gel-like substance that forms a protective layer over the affected skin, sealing in moisture. Skin Rescue Balm also contains other natural skin-conditioning ingredients such as Comfrey (to repair cracked skin), Chickweed (to help itching) and Helychrysum oil (to soothe inflammation). Applied to the affected area, this balm forms a soothing protective barrier to help ease the dryness and irritation.

Psoriasis is a complex condition that can be triggered during emotional stress. Our Oregon Grape Balm contains the root of wild-crafted Oregon Grape, a naturally soothing herb, ideal for easing psoriasis. With Chickweed and Calendula, these organic ingredients provide an effective balm for sufferers of psoriasis-prone skin.

Many woman experience adult acne and, unfortunately, hormone imbalance, dehydration and stress are common triggers for this condition. Many cleansers contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that strips away natural oils, causing excess sebum which, in turn, can result in acne. Our Chamomile Cleanser isn't a foaming face wash so doesn't contain SLS: it simply and gently washes away skin impurities. Containing the herb Chamomile, with its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps unblock pores, making it one of the best herbal extracts for acne. Chamomile can improve blood circulation in skin tissue and can calm even the most sensitive of skins.   

For other types of skin remedies shop our full range today.