Social Distancing, Stress and Your Skin

Social distancing inevitably means that we're spending more time indoors and that move can negatively affect your skin. Stress and skin is a delicate relationship after all. Even for those who are healthy, staying home to reduce the spread of coronavirus is a big change in environment and routine, both of which can impact your skin. A change in diet, activity and air can result in facial breakouts, dryness and other negative reactions.

To combat those issues, there are simple tips you can use to practice good skin care by revising your daily routine, and using what you already have available in your home. However, if you find that your skin is getting worse or if it is significantly adding to your stress, I recommend that you book a virtual consult so we can create a more customized plan to address your concerns.

4 EASY WAYS TO REVISE YOUR DAILY ROUTINE FOR BETTER SKINCARE DURING SOCIAL DISTANCING

STRESS AND SKIN TIP 1:  REDUCE STRESS

Social distancing poses a challenge to mental health, as it isolates people who may become lonely when separated from family and friends. While addressing mental health in this time is an issue in itself, depression, anxiety and stress can cause facial breakouts and premature aging. Taking care of your mental health first is a good way to begin your skin care practices.

STRESS AND SKIN TIP 2: EAT HEALTHY AND STAY HYDRATED

With restaurants closed and grocery stores picked over, it may feel hard to maintain a balanced diet but that's one of the best ways to help your skin. If you can, try cooking meals with ingredients like fatty fish, green vegetables, blueberries, pumpkin seeds and walnuts – and avoid dairy. This is also the perfect time to work on your hydration and get into the habit of drinking more water.

SKINCARE TIP 3: PRIORITIZE SLEEP

Sleep is an important part of skin care. During sleep, the body goes into a regenerative and constructive mode, where it also makes collagen. Even though your work schedule may change if you're now working from home, you should make sure to get enough rest for the benefit of your skin.

SKINCARE TIP 4:  AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

Face-touching has been repeatedly warned against for spreading coronavirus, but it can also spread dirt, oil, and bacteria to your face, which can clog pores.