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