What are several ways I can reduce the signs of stressed-out skin?
Stress can negatively impact your skin, causing everything from dryness to redness to acne. Gil Yosipovitch, M.D., a clinical professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University, tells Prevention that when it comes to acne, stress causes a chain reaction, boosting inflammation, which then leads to blemishes. To treat breakouts, look for formulas with salicylic acid, which helps to slough off dead skin cells, or benzoyl peroxide, which kills blemish-causing bacteria. To help with dryness, David Goldberg, M.D., director of laser research at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, tells the magazine that it’s best to use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas because their lower pH levels don’t cause further dryness or inflammation. To relieve redness, look for products with anti-inflammatory ingredients. In general, traditional methods of stress relief are critical to skin care, too. That includes participating in physical activity several times a week, getting sufficient sleep and using heal