If you’re like me, you’re perpetually stressed. Maybe it’s your state of mind or your busy schedule. Whatever the cause, this feeling can definitely take a toll on your skin. With this in mind, we’ve got your back with some of the best ingredients for acne and stressed skin. But before we give you all the deets, let’s quickly go over the concerns you could be facing right this minute.
What Does Stressed Skin Look Like?
- Your skin might look very dry, dull, and lifeless: Several issues can happen when your skin barrier – aka protective shield – is compromised. With too much cortisol going on, levels of moisture and oil production rapidly decrease/slow down.
- Your skin might look extra greasy: Does your skin feel like it’s covered with the leftover drip of a gigantic fast food meal? That’s because excess levels of stress hormones can cause your sebaceous glands to go into overdrive, leading to oilier skin and – zits galore.
- Your pre-existing skin conditions might start raging again: If you have eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or acne, stress might trigger flare-ups or worsen the condition. All thanks to capital “I” Inflammation.
- You might see some scars: Sometimes, we can’t help but pick at our skin, especially when we’re feeling overwhelmed. This habit can make your skin bleed or develop scars.
If you’re curious about knowing more, we have an in-depth article that you can read here!
Ingredients to Look For!
Squalane
What is it: Squalane is actually the byproduct of its unstable teen cousin – squalene – after hydrogenation. This process makes the oil last longer and an overall better ingredient to be incorporated into your skincare. Nowadays, it can be sourced from a slew of plant-based ingredients, such as sugar cane, rice bran, wheat germ, olives, and amaranth seeds.
Why it’s great: The oil is the perfect mix of fatty acids and lipids to keep the skin well-nourished and barrier-protected. Much like our natural sebum, it works wonderfully to seal in all that hydration and moisture. Additionally, it’s rich in antioxidants, giving it the power to reverse UV damage, balance oil production, reduce signs of aging, and fight hyperpigmentation. Even if you have sensitive skin, this ingredient is the one for you!
Product Recommendations
Ceramides
What is it: You can think of ceramides as the waxy glue that holds our skin together. The waxy substance is made up of fatty oils, lipids, and cholesterol that all play a role in maintaining a healthy barrier. In terms of skincare, there are 9 types, and they’re typically located further down the ingredient’s list. Even so, they work just as great as the other three!
Why it’s great: You can count on ceramides to keep the moisture in and the skin-emies out! Ceramide and collagen levels decrease as you age. For this reason, your skin will start thinning and fine lines will become more prominent. Also, they’re much lower in those with inflammatory skin conditions. So, if you start incorporating this star ingredient, you can be sure your skin will stay protected, moisturized, and youthful for days!
Product Recommendations
Niacinamide
What is it: Otherwise known as vitamin B3, niacin, and nicotinamide, it’s a water-soluble vitamin that’s commonly found in products, from cleansers to face masks. Plus, it works well with other heavy hitters and hydrating agents while being effective and non-irritating for all skin types.
Why it’s great: What can niacinamide do? Better question, what can’t it do? Not only does it work well to fade discoloration, but it also helps strengthen your skin barrier. Wait, there’s more! It increases collagen production, improves skin elasticity, regulates oil production, reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, kills acne-causing bacteria, fights free radical damage, and even calms redness. Talk about a skincare bestie right here!
Product Recommendations
Snail Mucin
What is it: The sticky and slimy mucus/secretion is rich in allantoin, manganese, copper peptides, collagen, elastin, as well as hyaluronic acid. It’s long been used for medicinal purposes, for instance, for healing wounds and soothing irritation. Now, this beauty secret has become quite popular, especially within the Asian skincare industry.
Why it’s great: Don’t let snail mucin gross you out because it’s actually quite moisturizing, hydrating, and plumping. Plus, it contains glycolic acid to exfoliate and lighten dark spots naturally. At the same time, it’s super calming for anyone with acne-prone skin!
Product Recommendations
Full Video:
Shop all our curated faves on the Beauty Within Shop: https://beautywithin.com
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more information and product recommendations: youtube.com/c/BeautyWithin
