Modern Stressors and Their Effects on Skin
Stress is now a nearly constant part of daily life, driven by factors like pollution, UV radiation, blue light, lack of sleep, and pressures from work and relationships. These stressors disrupt skin homeostasis, elevating cortisol levels and compromising the skin’s balance.
For instance, poor sleep affects melatonin levels, while increased cortisol further depletes collagen and blood flow in the skin. This often manifests around the eyes, causing dark circles and a dull, tired complexion that makes skin look older.
Cortisol and Skin
The impact of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, on our skin is more profound than many realise. When cortisol levels are elevated over long periods, it triggers a series of changes in the skin that can accelerate ageing and lead to noticeable skin issues. Here’s a closer look at how cortisol can negatively affect our skin:
-Increased Blood Sugar Levels: Elevated cortisol raises blood sugar, promoting a process known as "glycation". Glycation is an ageing process where sugars bind to proteins in the skin, such as collagen and elastin, which are crucial for keeping skin firm and supple.
As glycated collagen builds up over time, it becomes difficult for the body to break down these modified proteins. This accumulation affects both the skin and internal organs, leading to reduced elasticity, dullness, and other signs of ageing.
This process begins early in life, but visible signs usually start to appear around age 30.
- Protein Breakdown in the Skin: Cortisol has a strong catabolic effect, which means it breaks down proteins in the dermis, accelerating the degradation of essential structural elements within the skin.
- Increased Skin Dryness: Cortisol reduces hyaluronic acid production, a natural skin moisturiser, and increases water loss , resulting in drier skin.
- Fine Lines, Wrinkles, and Thinning Skin: With prolonged cortisol exposure, skin loses elasticity and barrier functionality, making it more prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and a general thinning effect.
Neurocosmetics: Can a Skincare Routine Balance Cortisol?
The emerging field of neurocosmetics offers a promising approach to addressing skin stress by helping to balance cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. Among the active compounds found in plant extracts, phenolics have gained particular attention due to their powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. These compounds work to counteract stress by lowering cortisol production in skin cells and stimulating the release of β-endorphins, our natural ‘feel-good’ hormones.
Embracing Science for Lasting Benefits
Advances in skincare science mean that cosmetics are no longer just about surface beauty; they’re evolving to support holistic wellness by reducing skin stress, balancing cortisol, and promoting overall health. This innovation brings us closer to skincare solutions that benefit not only our skin’s appearance but also our mental and emotional wellbeing, helping us thrive in a stress-filled world.
If you’d like to learn more, explore our app it’s packed with health insights in every format you love, from videos and e-books to easy-to-read articles, all designed to help you feel your best.
As I conclude, know that you are not alone on this path to better health and wellness. Your journey is unique but together we form a community of strength and support.
Let’s thrive together,
Cristina x
Resources:
Chan-Sik Kim , Sok Park ,Junghyun Kim, The role of glycation in the pathogenesis of aging , 2017
Wenge Zheng , Huijuan Li , Yuyo Go , Xi Hui (Felicia) Chan, Research Advances on the Damage Mechanism of Skin Glycation and Related Inhibitors, 2022
Luana Beatriz dos Santos Nascimento , Antonella Gori , Andrea Raffaelli , Phenolic Compounds from Leaves and Flowers of Hibiscus roseus: Potential Skin Cosmetic Applications of an Under-Investigated Species, 2021
