This might be a tough one but it’s definitely important! Stress plays a leading roll in our skin. 
When we get stressed out, a hormone called cortisol is released. Cortisol is sometimes referred to as the “stress” hormone. Both high and low levels of cortisol can affect your skin. Sugar levels increase and of course that can cause all kinds of internal issues within the body, but for the purpose of this blog, I’ll stick to the skin.
So, you get stressed, cortisol is released in a slow steady stream, causing excessive dryness, oiliness, wrinkles, acne, you get the picture. On the surface a process called glycation happens, which is a stress reaction on the skin, damaging collagen. Basically, it hardens, thus increasing the effects of premature aging and other issues.
Cortisol can cause dryness. It decreases the production of hyaluronic acid which is a property in our lipid barrier that binds moisture to our skin. As we age, our production of this acid already is greatly compromised and we don’t need any assistance in that department!
Stressed out! During renovation, painting away!
Stress messes with our complexion. I know this all too well. When stressed, adrenaline flow increases. Now, that can be awesome if you’re in the woods, running from a bear, but not in our daily life! Adrenaline decrease blood flow to the surface of your skin which in turn deprives your skin of healthy nutrients and precious oxygen. I’ve shared with many of you about how reactive my skin is. When we were renovating the spa I felt the pressure to get it up and running A.S.A.P. I think I would wake up daily with a new lump on my face. Finding balance is getting easier so now they’re farther and fewer between but I’m also taking steps in learning how to properly manage it too. Stress that is.
Sleep plays a big role in limiting cortisol. Getting 7-8 hours is more important than you’d think. The reason is that when we are dreaming, new 
collagen is being formed and our skin is repairing the damage of the day.
Exercise helps greatly! When we are moving blood flow is increased and anytime we have blood stimulation there is oxygen flow. The nutrients and oxygen increase means less toxins, alive, radiant, healthy skin!
Meditate, rest, and relaxation. Taking a break or timeout throughout the day when you have the opportunity. Even 10-15 minutes to just sit quietly, try to clear your mind and think of nothing will help in controlling stress. One better than that is pop a face mask on, lie down on your bed, and just breathe. I realize we don’t always have time for that but I do know that when we are taken care of, we can give back to others so much more!