Is our skin a reflection of our pace of life?
It is said that the face is the mirror to the soul. Once you learn about the number of connections between the skin and the nervous system you can understand this old proverb.
This relationship is as old as time and is based on a common embryological origin: both systems form part of the same layer, which gives them a connection that lasts into adulthood. Therefore the nervous system and the skin are closely connected in a physiological way.
But… do changes to our pace of life really affect our skin? The answer is yes, and even happens from when we are born without us noticing. Many of the most frequent skin diseases, such as dermatitis, psoriasis or acne have exacerbations that are related to changes in emotional situations.
This enemy called stress…
We already know that life has moments where we feel a great emotional burden from different types of problems and that this affects our body and our relationships. But we should be aware that this can also have internal consequences. Psychological stress visibly alters our internal homeostasis which can be reflected in a deterioration of our skin.
This happens because stress causes a state of hormonal activation that, if it persists with time, can change the electrolyte balance in our skin, specifically in areas such as the face, hands and neck. But why? It should be noted that these areas have a large amount of somatosensory receptors. The existing relationship between nerve endings creates a hormonal and immunological storm that prepares the body for action. This physiological preparation for action catches up with our skin. It causes more vasodilation and the skin reddens, sweats, and as a consequence becomes dehydrated. Additionally our immune system activates and releases some molecules called cytokines, such as histamine, which are necessary for tissue processes, but could produce allergic reactions and cause itching, stinging or peeling.
As we can see, there is a relationship between the nervous system, the immune system and the skin. Even though these initial reactions are beneficial, their persistence causes effects such as stress or anxiety. It is at such times when a hormonal overload can cause an emotional block in our complex brain networks. And this happens because the central nervous system sends thousands of neuropeptides and neurotransmittors that repeatedly and excessively transmit stimuli to the skin. This means that external signs such as facial flaccidity and premature aging show and that there is an increase in susceptibility to skin diseases due to the increase in tissue inflammation.
Advice
- Our skin shows off our internal state of wellbeing, even if we don’t want it to. Therefore, it is necessary to look after it with greater care when we are immersed in times of discomfort, stress or if we are finding it difficult to cope in our daily lives.
- We advise you to do gentle exercise, because natural endorphins will counteract the effects of stress. Other therapeutical treatments, with the same effects, can include meditation or yoga, which help us to control and settle our emotions.
- A varied diet, with abundant vitamins and minerals, is of course linked with fluid intake and together they make sure that our skin doesn’t suffer today what life has prepared for us for tomorrow.
- And above all, relax, take time for yourself and enjoy the company of your loved ones.
