As a country, we are slowly returning to our normal way of life. With businesses reopening, the vaccine roll out in full swing and even talk of a staycation in the summer there is a lot to celebrate. But post-pandemic anxiety is a very real thing; if you feel overwhelmed by plans to meet friends, attend appointments, or return to work you are not alone. Covid-19 has taken a lot from us all; jobs, housing, missed milestones, and of course, grieving the loss of loved ones.

Even those of us who have been very lucky, have had our sense of safety infiltrated by the risk of the virus and have faced never seen before challenges over the last year. It is important to show ourselves the empathy and patience we would show a close friend at this time and don't feel pressured to do everything all at once.

What are the effects of stress?

Many of us have experienced a stress response in our bodies during the pandemic. Being in a constant state of apprehension can manifest in numerous ways in the body like gastrointestinal symptoms or increased anxiety. A lot of nerve endings are connected to the skin, so as emotions are played out neurologically, they can also be expressed through the skin.

How does stress affect the skin?

Many people have experienced breakouts, the worsening of acne and other inflammatory skin diseases. When you are tense, your body releases the stress hormone cortisol, which may increase the skin's oil production, making you prone to breakouts. If you suffer from chronic stress you may feel the effects more.
Although stress does not cause acne directly, it can make it worse and can prolong a breakout and make the skin harder to heal. If you're under a lot of emotional stress, psychological stress or physical stress, using relaxation techniques may help speed up the healing of your acne. Many skin issues can be improved with a solid skin care routine and stressed skin is no different.
Whether you are tackling dull skin, dry skin or inflammatory conditions, the key to healthy skin is to set a daily routine to tackle skin conditions and combat the effect of oxidative stress on the skin.

 

For Acne Breakouts

In order to banish breakouts, it's important to tackle the overproduction of oil and clear the pores of blockages. Here are some of my top products to treat breakouts and flareups of acne.

 

Acnaut 3 Step Kit

Acnaut 3 Step Kit is an all-in-one solution for those suffering from mild and moderate to severe acne pustules on the face, back and neck. Suitable for oily skin which is prone to frequent bacterial infections and breakouts. Acnaut Active Lotion for oily and blemish prone skin is to be used as an on-the-spot treatment or as a toner on affected areas. The Acnaut Soap with lactic and salicylic acid will gently wash and clear the pores of oily and blemish-prone skin and the Acnaut Hydro Active Cream is an ideal moisturiser for daily hydrating care without clogging pores.

Trilogy Clarifying Cleansing Gel

For those suffering from breakouts, a solid cleansing routine will help combat the severity and occurrence of blemishes. The trilogy clarifying gel is an excellent option for those suffering from flaking or dehydration along with the breakouts. Thanks to Grape Seed, Jojoba and Rosehip Oils, you'll benefit from a rich concentration of omegas to thoroughly nourish. However, the pores will be cleared effectively and skin tone improved with a mild astringent, Witch Hazel and Salicylic Acid, which is derived from Willow Bark, and helps to resurface and exfoliate to improve texture.

La Roche-Posay Serozinc Face Toner Mist

Specifically formulated for oily, blemish-prone skin, this is a soothing and purifying toning mist with immediate anti-shine and pore tightening benefits. Use after cleansing and throughout the day to mattify skin and keep it feeling fresh. Skin feels clean all day even when wearing a face covering, simply spray onto the skin prior to wearing the face covering.

Acnaut Active Lotion

Acnaut active lotion is my go-to treatment for those suffering from painful, pus filled spots on the face or body. It is also an excellent product to treat and prevent blackheads. A dual-purpose product it can also be used on ingrown hairs and as a toner for oily skin types. As a treatment toner use twice a day, apply the lotion with a cotton pad on cleansed skin all over the face, avoiding eye contour area. In case of single breakouts apply the lotion 2-3 times a day only on the affected spots.

For Dry Skin

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Light Blend

For those of us suffering from the effects of wearing face coverings the skin may feel tender, irritated and inflamed. It may appear dry while also having breakouts of blemishes. A light facial oil can really help with bringing the skin back to full health. The Trilogy light blend rosehip oil is easily absorbed and is light, yet deeply nourishing. Essential fatty acids from rosehip and cranberry moisturise and repair skin, jojoba helps to clarify and soften and grapeseed, regulates the skin's own oil production. While Antioxidant lycopene from tomato provides protection against free radical damage.

Nuxe Reve De Miel Comfort Cream

This rich face cream with Honey, Propolis and Precious Oils provides intense nourishing, soothes and repairs the skin while protecting it from external aggressions. For those suffering from dryness on the skin surface, this is a comforting moisturiser that is suitable for use at night or in the morning under SPF.

For Atopic Skin Flare Ups

For those suffering from common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea, stress levels can have a real impact on how the skin disease can flare. As cortisol levels spike the skin may respond in a stress rash, sensitive skin can become irritated and blood flow to the area increases. For atopic skin my top SOS products are as follows:

Bioderma Atoderm SOS Spray

This handy aerosol spray soothes itching in 60 seconds for 6 hours of efficacy. The fine mist is cooling and soothing on the skin and can be used in conjunction with the regular emollient routine. Spray on and leave to dry for instant relief.

La Roche Posay Tolariane Ultra Dermallergo Serum

This wonder product is perfect to calm inflammation, irritation and redness. It is excellent for use alongside hyaluronic acids locking in moisture for up to 48 hours and minimising the look and feel of dryness and coarseness.

If you are suffering from signs of stress in the skin, a flare up of a skin condition or breakouts in the skin get in touch with us here in Meaghers for more information on the best treatment for you.

help@meaghers.ie

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