External and internal daily stressors wreak havoc on our skin, consequently starting the process of our skin's breakdown much more quickly than we would like. Here are a few ways to maintain a calm, clear complexion.
Stress aging…
Anyone who's had a rough week knows the look: puffy eyes, dark fine lines. "We call it stress aging." says Manhattan-based dermatologist and psychiatrist Amy Wechsler, MD. "Daily stressors such as a demanding job, a lack of sleep, and an unhealthy lifestyle can manifest as pallid patches, pimples, and wrinkles, which can add three to six years to your skin."- April Long, ELLE
Stress, digestion, bacteria, inflammation and hormones!...
As dermatologist Whitney Bowen MD, author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin, explains, "Stress slows down digestion, which creates a shift in bacteria that can compromise the integrity of your gut lining. This can cause inflammation throughout the body and lead to acne flare-ups as well as premature aging." Furthermore, the stress hormone cortisol is no friend to skin. "It's infamous for breaking down collagen," Bowen says.
Ways to slow it down...
Thankfully, much of this damage can be slowed down and even stopped by focusing on daily moments of self-care. "When you trigger what's called the relaxation response, it can stop psychological stress from being translated into inflammation," Bowen says. "I have patients download and use the meditation app 'Breathe' and five minutes a day of it can make a world of difference to skin."
Here are a few tips on destressing your skin!
Natural vs. Chemical Skin Care…
Natural skin care uses** topical cremes and lotions made of ingredients available in nature. Chemical skin care stresses the skin causing it to age much faster. They can also be very harmful to your hormones and organs.
Sleeping in your makeup is murder on your pores and complexion...
"Going to bed with makeup on will leave you with clogged pores, since so many makeup products have ingredients like silicones that block the pores. When the pores are blocked, your skin gets bumpy. If you are acne-prone, it can even lead to breakouts. You are effectively damaging skin by neglecting to remove makeup at the end of the day." -Debra Jalman, a New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets
Stay Hydrated!
Not only does stress quickly dehydrate the skin, but skin that is dehydrated is unable to function properly.
Drink plenty of water, as well as herbal teas and water-rich foods. This will keep your skin cells hydrated from within.
Regular movement is a major factor!
When you get your heart rate up, your skin receives a greater amount of oxygen and nutrients. This then gives it an immediate glow, while also allowing your skin cells to function more efficiently.
P.S. Atlantic Sea Kelp, (which is in the Dr. Lucy Gentle Crème Cleanser and Luscious Rose Equalizer Hydrating Masque), is known for aiding in the highly unstable free radicals that plague our bodies inside and out. Free radicals cause the process of aging to speed up as well as the inflammation process that leads to the breakdown of collagen, fine lines, wrinkles and sagging of the skin, uneven skin tones plus UV damage from the sun.
P.P.S.! If you enjoy our French Friday's together, we would love for you to share it with your friends and family!
With love and blessings,
Rebecca
"Happy Mother's Day to the most beautiful angel in heaven."
Dr. Lucy's Mother's Day Special Is Here!
I love and miss my Momma! In honor of Ginny Grace, ALL the Dr. Lucy store products are 15% OFF!
Think of it this way, 15% Off of the Dr. Lucy products could literally get you another product for free!
With that 15% Off you could possibly buy...
A half a tank of gas!
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Love and nurture your God given body inside and out!
Promo code: MOMMA
Expires: May 15th!