Does stress cause acne? What is this itchy skin rash? Yes, the stress skin rash, breakouts, and dry winter skin can emerge this time of year—but don’t let that ruin a great start to a New Year. Although the shift to winter weather and stress can indeed impact your skin, you can check in with your dermatologist, and modify your winter skincare routine to prevent stress damage. Together, we can help you sail glowingly for the New Year!
How Does Stress Affects Your Skin?
Increased stress can lead to various skin issues such as acne break- outs, dullness, and increased skin sensitivity. Stress can trigger the release of cortisol, a hormone that increases oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Then there are the dry winter skin and itchy skin rash problems that can flare up because of stress and dry, cold weather. The winter stress skin rash is real.
Signs of Stress on the Skin: Dry Skin in Winter
If you experience a stress skin rash you are not alone, especially here in Northeast Ohio where the weather can get so cold and dry. A whopping 50 million Americans deal with some form of acne. Does stress cause acne? Not directly, but it sure can worsen or increase the frequency of acne breakouts. In other words, it’s incredibly com- mon to have some sort of skin condition that can worsen by winter weather combined with stress.
TAKE ACTION: MANAGING STRESS FOR HEALTHIER SKIN
The good news is lowering your stress levels, updating your win- ter skincare routine, and working with your dermatologist can turn itchy, red, rashy winter skin into smooth, radiant, comfortable skin:
1. Prevent an Itchy Skin Rash: Protect Your Skin Barrier
The most important thing, of course, is protecting your skin barrier through your winter skincare routine. Focus on using gentle, hydrating cleansers, applying lipid-rich moisturizers, and ceramides, and incorporating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin into your skincare routine. Remember to wear an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day too, even throughout the winter. Also, add a vitamin C serum to your morning routine.
2. De-Stress Your Skincare Routine with Your Dermatologist
Consistent skincare routines and regular visits to a dermatology clinician also play a key role in maintaining healthy skin. Partnering with a dermatologist can help minimize stress-induced skin problems. Your dermatologist understands what products can scientifically work to protect, nourish, and revive your skin. They can also evaluate your individual skin needs and conditions, and make recommendations that streamline your skincare routine. Even if you’ve never been to Apex before, we can get you the right diagnosis and right treatment plan so you can feel better, quicker!
Now is the time to schedule any skin treatments for the New Year glow-ups you need too. Here is one of our Physcian Assistanct, Rachel McKernan’s top recommendations for in-office skin refresher treatments:
1. Hydrating Facial Mask
2. Chemical Peels
3. Microneedling and Laser Treatments
4. Ask Your Dermatologist for a Winter-Appropriate Sunscreen
As the seasons change and stress levels increase, it’s important to enlist your dermatologist’s help in updating any skincare routine issues. Catching changes early will help our skin heal better!
Book an appointment at one of Apex Skin Dermatology 14 locations closest to you, and get ready to shine with fresh, smooth, glowing skin in the New Year!
