research
7 min read

When Stress Shows Up on Your Skin: Science & Solutions

Understand the cortisol connection and learn three-step strategies to soothe flare-ups quickly.

MM

Melissa Metz

LPN, Advanced Aesthetics Nurse & Stress-Resilience Coach

Key Takeaways

  • Takeaway1

    Cortisol spikes increase sebum up to 60% and slow wound healing.

  • Takeaway2

    Breathwork, movement, and mindset practices reduce hormonal impact.

  • Takeaway3

    Use gentle, anti-inflammatory skincare during high-stress windows.

  • Takeaway4

    LED therapy and Ritual facials reset the nervous system quickly.

  • Takeaway5

    Consistency beats quick fixes—make stress care part of your routine.

What Stress Does to Your Skin

Cortisol directs resources away from skin repair, triggering breakouts, redness, and dehydration. Stress also affects sleep and digestion, compounding the problem. Knowing this empowers you to intervene before flare-ups escalate.

Calm Body, Calm Barrier

Practice 4-7-8 breathing, take movement breaks, and reframe negative thoughts. Keep a gratitude or prayer journal. Drink water with magnesium or electrolytes. These small shifts teach your body to exit fight-or-flight mode, letting skin return to balance.

Skincare & Treatments During Stress

Switch to fragrance-free cleanser, barrier serum, and moisturizer. Avoid harsh exfoliants. Schedule a Ritual facial with LED therapy to soothe inflammation. Use a restorative serum or azelaic acid at night to accelerate healing. We provide text check-ins so you stay consistent even when life is hectic.

Education Impact

Informed Clients, Better Results

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