Sept/Oct Blog: How Stress Shows Up on Your Skin — And What You Can Do About It
- Angela Green
- Sep 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 26
We all know stress affects our mood, sleep, and energy. But did you know it also shows up on your skin? When life feels heavy — from work deadlines, family responsibilities, or simply the daily hustle — your skin often tells the story before you even say a word. At Angela Green Skin Care, I believe that taking care of your skin is also about taking care of your whole self.
The Science of Stress + Skin
Stress triggers the release of cortisol (your body’s stress hormone). While cortisol is helpful in small doses, constant stress can create inflammation, imbalance, and even accelerate aging in the skin.
Common ways stress shows up on your skin:
Breakouts & Acne → Increased oil production + inflammation.
Dryness & Dullness → Cortisol weakens the skin barrier, making it harder to hold onto moisture.
Redness & Sensitivity → Stress-induced inflammation can trigger rosacea and flare-ups.
Fine Lines & Premature Aging → Elevated stress hormones break down collagen + elasticity.
Dark Circles & Puffiness → Lack of quality sleep leads to sluggish circulation around the eyes.
Stress + Skin Connection in Everyday Life
Think of these moments:
You’ve had a sleepless night → the next morning, your eye area is dark and shadowy.
A big work deadline or family stress → suddenly, a breakout appears.
Long-term stress → you notice your skin is uneven, textured with dark spots.
Inconsistent eating and lack of water → breakouts on the face and body
Your skin is your body’s largest organ — and it’s a mirror of what’s happening internally.
What You Can Do: Skin + Stress Solutions
1. Professional Treatments to Reset the Skin
Deep Cleansing & Hydration Facials → Calm inflammation and restore the skin barrier.
Chemical Peels (gentle) → Break up stress-induced breakouts, smooth texture, and brighten complexion.
Massage during facial → Relaxes both skin + nervous system, lowering cortisol naturally and moving lymphatic fluid.
Book The Treatment Facial to explore Chemical Peel options:
2. At-Home Care Rituals
Use hydrating cleansers + barrier-repair serums
Apply product as a self-massage — press, don’t rub, and breathe deeply.
Light a candle, dim overhead lights and set the mood to relax while completing your nighttime skin care routine to prepare the body to rest.
3. Whole Self-Care Practices
Prioritize quality sleep (skin repairs itself overnight).
Gentle movement (yoga, walking, stretching) to lower stress levels.
Breathwork or short meditations — even 5 minutes a day makes a difference.
Receiving a facial is a form of active rest. The Reset Facial includes lymphatic massage with aromatherapy to treat the skin and the senses
Closing: A Calmer Mind, A Healthier Glow
Your skin and your mind are deeply connected. When stress takes over, your skin will tell the story. The good news? With the right professional care, at-home rituals, and small daily wellness habits, you can calm both your skin and your spirit.
Shop a.dot skin care to create your home care ritual for day and night.
Be well!
Your Esthetician,
Angela Green
Comments