Stress can literally show up on the face

By Dr. Ananya Mandal, MDOct 26 2010

According to an Australian stylist stress affects the health as well as appearance. Gregory Landsman, the author of Face and Fitness said that high stress level is immediately visible on a person’s face.

Landsman explained that those with oily skin will experience increased oil secretion and acne while those with dry skin will display signs of stress such as redness or inflammation on the skin. Others may show stress through dull, puffy eyes.

He was supported by Brisbane chiropractor Jocelyn Olsson who said that increased stress will prevent the flow of blood towards digestive organs. She added, “When we are tense, our adrenal glands release ‘stress response’ hormones. Once this response has been activated, the body responds by an increase in heart rate, an increase in blood pressure, muscular stress, and the blood flowing away from the digestive functions toward the muscles.”

Landsman also said that no amount of lighting, makeup or airbrushing can remove traces of stress. He said, “I have worked with faces right around the world and realized ... that we carry stress in our bodies and visibly on our faces.” “Stress has become our face's constant companion and is, unfortunately, one of the major causes of premature ageing,” he added.

Adelaide-based naturopath Christopher Raybould also said that stress can produce allergic reactions and interfere with the body's absorption of nutrients. “Your blood supply goes not to your stomach, it's going to your muscles for the fighting or flight… Your digestive system shuts down. Food will pass undigested into the small intestines…” he explained.

Olsson explained that there are ways to beat stress. One of the methods is deep breathing that activates the parasympathetic response: it increases digestion, slows the heart rate and relaxes muscles. Aromatherapy also promotes deeper breathing and calms the pulse. Tai Chi, yoga or meditation may also help. Art therapy or creative expression can also focus attention away from external pressures. Regular exercise helps in eliminating pent up chemicals and stress hormones. Olsson recommends eating organic food and avoiding processed foods, coffee, cigarettes and sugar to lead a healthier life.