When anxiety spikes, complexion concerns can too, with
breakouts, dryness and wrinkles. We show you how to keep calm when the
pressure’s on.
Acne
The problem
‘The primary
aggravating factor leading to adult acne is chronic stress,’ says Emma Hobson,
education manager at The International Dermal Institute. While periods of
intensity can cause occasional breakouts, it’s continual stress that alters
ours hormone levels and causes an increase in oil production, she explains.
The solution
‘The key to
controlling your breakouts is maintaining clean skin,’ advises Hobson. To keep
spots at bay, she recommends double cleansing in the morning and evening and
using products that contain ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic
acid or zinc to help prevent and reduce inflammation. If shine is concern,
consider a weekly clay-based mask or a mattifyingtoner to absorb any excess
oil. It’s also a good idea to invest in a spot treatment to dry out the
affected area. And although your skin may seem oily, moisturising is still a
crucial step – but stay away from oil-based formulas and opt for
non-comedogenic options, instead.
The buys
1. Olay Shine Control Lathering Cleanser, $13.99
2. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream, $34
3. Chanel Précision Fresh Mattifying Toner, $75
4. Dr. LeWinn’s Puressence Purifying Masque, $34.95
5. Ultraceuticals Ultra Clear Treatment Lotion, $79
6. Galderma Benzac AC Water Based Acne Gel, $16.
Your skin mirrors the processes within your body, so be
sure to eat a balanced diet when you’re under pressure.
Dullness
The problem
During times of
extreme pressure, your body redirects energy from jobs that it considers
non-essential. Unfortunately for your lacklustre complexion, that includes cell
turnover. And when dead skin cells don’t shed regularly, your base can appear
sallow and flat.
The solution
Radiant skin is all
about healthy cell turnover, so exfoliation is key. Choose between a scrub or
chemical formulas (they usually contain salicylic or lactic acid) to help get
your glow back. But be cautious of overdoing it, as this can lead to irritation
– two to three times a week should be sufficient. Follow with a hydrating serum
or mask designed specifically to even out your skin tone and rejuvenate a tired
base. Finish with a brightening moisturiser to help seal in the benefits and
create a dewy, luminescent finish.
The buys
1. Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser, $13.99
2. Giorgio Armani Luminessence Bright Regenerator Concentrate, $165
3. SK-II Skin Rebooster, $130
4. Elizabeth Arden Intervene Radiance Boosting Moisture Cream SPF 15, $90
5. Clean & Clear Morning Burst Skin Brightening Facial Scrub, $10.99
