Staying hydrated can help keep your skin healthy.

Stress can affect our bodies in a number of ways, including causing problems for our skin.

If you have been feeling particularly stressed, you may have noticed changes in your skin, such as dryness and breakouts.

The experts at Epaderm have explained how stress can affect your skin and what you can do about it.

“When we feel stressed our body releases more of the hormones adrenaline and cortisol which affect different functions such as blood flow to your skin,” they say. “The skin can appear spotty, wrinkly, baggy and dull when under pressure but can also appear dry. As a result, people sweat more and lose moisture of the skin. Although stress can cause dry skin it can also aggravate existing skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.”

The experts add that stress-affected skin can also affect people mentally, with hurtful comments about their appearance causing frustration and anxiety.

A simple guide to de-stressing your skin:

Prioritise self-care

First and foremost, you need to prioritise taking care of yourself, both physically and mentally.

“Getting adequate sleep, exercise and a healthy diet can improve overall well-being which will be reflected with healthier skin,” the experts share.

Hydrate

Hydration is key when it comes to keeping your skin healthy and happy.

“Stress-induced dry skin can be due to a lack of moisture caused by hormones,” they state. “By increasing our water intake, our skin will become more hydrated.”

Moisturise regularly

Moisturising your skin every day will help reduce the risk of your skin becoming dry or oily.

“Incorporating moisturising regularly into your skincare routine is a simple step that can help combat dehydrated skin,” the experts recommend. “With no fragrances, SLS or steroids, Epaderm Cream is great for everyday use. If your skin needs more intense hydration, Epaderm recommends their Ointment which provides practical relief during flare-ups.”

Be prepared for flare-ups

If you’ve struggled with skin problems in the past, don’t be discouraged if it happens again.

“Being proactive in managing stress-induced eczema flare-ups is very important as stress can happen anywhere and at any time,” they advise.

Ask for help when you need it

If you are experiencing problems with your skin, it could be helpful to talk to a professional, such as a doctor.

“This is just as important for skin health as it is for mental health,” the experts explain. “If the effects of stress on your skin are getting too much for you to handle, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about the treatments available.”