Stress, Cortisol and Their Impact on Our Skin: How Can Cosmetics Help?
Stress and cortisol: how are they connected?
Stress is psychological or physical tension, or a situation in which a person feels pressure, challenge, or threat, and which can affect their well-being and health.
Cortisol is a steroid hormone (Read more about what steroids are and their role in our skin here.), produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress or low blood sugar; it is often called the “stress hormone” because its release is associated with the stress response.
When we experience stress, our body responds by releasing cortisol. This is a natural response that helps our body cope with stress. However, prolonged or constant stress can cause excessive cortisol production, which can affect skin health.
The effects of cortisol on the skin
Excess cortisol levels can cause:
- Increased sebum production. This can contribute to the development of acne or other skin problems.
- Breakdown of skin collagen. Cortisol can reduce collagen production, which can make the skin thinner and more prone to wrinkles. Collagen is very important for maintaining the skin’s vitality and elasticity, so to learn more about collagen, its benefits, functions, and sources, read here.
- Dehydration. Cortisol can disrupt the skin barrier function, causing the skin to become dry and more sensitive.
- Inflammatory processes. Cortisol can promote inflammatory responses in skin cells.
The role of cosmetics in reducing cortisol’s effects on the skin
Many skincare products can help reduce the effects of stress on the skin:
- Moisturizers. These products can help restore the skin barrier function and maintain skin hydration.
- Products with antioxidants. Vitamin C, E, ferulic acid, and other substances can combat the effects of free radicals caused by stress.
- Soothing ingredients. Ingredients such as chamomile extract, aloe vera, and others can help calm the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Products that promote collagen production. Peptides, retinol, and other ingredients can help stimulate collagen production in the skin.
- Sun protection products. Sun exposure can further damage skin that is already affected by stress, so it is recommended to use high-SPF sun protection.
Recommendations
To get the most out of cosmetic products and reduce the effects of stress on the skin, it is also important to pay attention to lifestyle: nutrition, adequate sleep, physical activity, and meditation or other calming practices. It is also recommended to consult a dermatologist or skin therapist to choose the most suitable products for your skin’s needs.
Although stress and the associated increase in cortisol levels can have negative consequences for our skin, properly selected cosmetics can help restore the skin’s health and radiance. It is important to choose high-quality products that contain ingredients that help reduce the effects of stress on the skin.
