Thank you to Dianna W for asking how stress can affect your skin
There is now scientific proof that links stress and negative emotions to skin problems. It even has its own field of expertise called pyschodermatology.
In 2001 there was a study done on 27 students to see if stress had an effect on the skin. To cut a long story short they found that it did. During the stressful exam period the skins barrier was dry and damaged making it more susceptible to skin problems such as rashes, dermatitis eczema, and psoriasis.
Here are 5 more skin problems linked to stress and negative emotions.
1. Acne
When you are stressed your body creates cortisol which causes and increase in sebum (oil) production. Too much sebum leads to a nasty breakout. Research has also shown that relaxation can reduce breakouts.
2. Cold Sores
Stress suppresses your immune system dropping its defences against immunity related skin problems such as cold sores, warts, eczema and psoriasis.
3. Frown Lines
Negative emotions and being serious all the time stops us from smiling. Constant frowning will cause frown lines and most of the time we don’t even realise we are doing it (I know I am guilty of this one).
4. Dry Skin
During stressful times your skin’s lipids evaporate. You can think of lipids as being the mortar in the “bricks and mortar” of your skin. When your lipids evaporate, your skin cells shrink which leaves your skin dry and flaky
5. Dull Complexion
We don’t just have to worry about cortisol. Stress also releases adrenalin and not in a good way (like after a sky dive). Adrenalin slows down blood flow to the skin which deprives it of oxygen and robs it of nutrients. This leaves your skin looking grey, sallow and sluggish. For a healthy glow you need good circulation.
To top it all off when you are feeling down you are more likely to skip your skincare routine which compounds all of the other negative effects that stress is already having on your skin.
So how do I turn that frown upside down?
To kick cortisol to the curb and keep your skin glowing, try doing something you enjoy which will reduce stress by taking your mind of things (even if it’s only for a little while).
You could try going for walk, exercise, painting, watch a funny movie (it has been way too long since we have made time to go to the movies!), get a massage, do yoga or even meditate.
Did you know that Google now teaches their staff to meditate and allows them to practice in working hours because it makes everyone happier and increases performance?
In our opinion Tracy has the best solution. She relaxes while taking care of her skin. Recently she told us that the Cloud 9 Deep Cleansing Balm was ‘almost meditative to use’. 
