Stress and anxiety can take a toll on your complexion.

In times of stress your body also directs your blood away from your face or the surface of your skin to travel to the heart, head and muscles. This lack of blood flow can make the skin clammy and also result in a pale complexion.

Stress and anxiety can take a toll on your complexion. When we are experiencing bad stress our blood pressure rises, digestive system slows down, heart rate goes up, immune system goes down, muscles become tense and we become insomniacs.

No wonder stress can age us.  Our skin is one clear place that shows the effects of continuous stress. The body releases a stress hormone called cortisol to patch and repair any weak spots in the body in times of distress, but the cortisol levels peak during extended periods of stress.  The cortisol can actually break down the collagen in your skin, the protein which allows skin to retain its strength and elasticity and look youthful.

Stress also induces wrinkles.  Skin cells are modified in their most basic levels to accommodate stress reaction processes and they begin to shrivel up, which can create fine lines over time.

Stress is also thought to play a part in skin conditions like rosacea, acne and psoriasis. When your stress levels are already high try to avoid intake of medicines or creams with cortisol, or related compounds, as your body is already overloaded with the hormone.

Massage and stimulate the face on your skin to rejuvenate blood flow. Use a well-formulated moisturizer like, our Ultra Rich Hydrating Creme to plump up fine lines and wrinkles and boost elasticity. Use treatment creams with antioxidants such as Vitamin C to reduce free radical damage and stimulate collagen production for firm skin.

Just 25 minutes per day of mindful meditation, and for three consecutive days, alleviates psychological stress according to new research from Carnegie Mellon University.

Exercise is a well proven stress remedy and increases blood flow which helps nourish and oxygenate the skin cells and helps remove waste products and free radicals, leaving the skin looking rejuvenated and with a healthy glow.

Reducing stress may also result in reducing inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, acne and psoriasis according to latest research by the American Academy of Dermatology.