9 replies to this topic

[~jess~]

Like most people, my acne flares up when I get stressed. I'm currently studying for six uni exams which will take place in the next two weeks, and my stress levels are pretty high at the moment and on the rise. No matter what I do to relax, given the amount of pressure I am under at the moment it impossible for me not to get stressed . Is there anything I can do to make my pending break out less severe?

[~jess~]

*Bump

[mister_l]

It's pretty hard to control and predict. I, for one, also break out sick like when I'm stressed....even a week or so after the stressful period is over, I continue to get random spots.

I think the only way to help lessen the effects of stress on skin is to just try to relax. Exercising may also help, as it helps relieve tension from stress. Massages help stimulate blood circulation and relieve tension. Also, if you ever get the chance, try getting a face massage; it feels heavenly. Massaging on the face boosts circulation of blood can help rid of toxinsin your blood (and pressure) on your face, both which could contribute to breakouts.

[~jess~]

Thanks for the advice

[willow569]

Deep breathing is a good stress release too. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed (or when you need a break from studying!), just close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths - concentrate on holding the breath in, and then slowly letting it out.

I agree that exercise is great too. Or do something that makes you laugh - (watch a favorite comedy, talk to a friend that makes you laugh), laughter is an incredibly good stress reliever.

Get enough sleep (I know that's hard when you are studying for exams!), go for walks, make sure to take breaks, etc.

Also, do not neglect your skin care routine. If you are using any topicals, make sure you continue to use them, since your skin is vulnerable to breaking out during stressful times.

Good luck!!

[~jess~]

Thanks Willow. I'll definately try the breathing exercises, thats a good idea. Topicals irritate my skin so all I do these days is cleanse and moisturise, so that kind leaves me with no defence against hormonal changes if you get my drift. I've got my period coming up this week to, so I'm expecting the worst!

[miss.chaNel]

EXCERCISE.

when i get sressed i run,run, run and run some more.

[Cyph31]

deep breathing may help but in the end you have to sit there for hours intently studying information and organizing it in your mind, and doing that while taking controlled deep breaths all the time is not going to happen (unless you are some god at concentration)

just say screw it for 2 weeks and get good exam marks

there are times in your life where being under immense pressure yields great results even though you probably lose a few months of your life in the process (premature aging)

the best thing you can do for yourself is keep your diet as healthy as possible during stressful times, like reducing all carb sources and increasing protein to give you a slow-burning energy source for many hours

[willow569]

deep breathing may help but in the end you have to sit there for hours intently studying information and organizing it in your mind, and doing that while taking controlled deep breaths all the time is not going to happen (unless you are some god at concentration)

just say screw it for 2 weeks and get good exam marks

there are times in your life where being under immense pressure yields great results even though you probably lose a few months of your life in the process (premature aging)

You don't take deep breaths all the time. You do it for a few minutes when you are taking a break from studying. Even a few minutes of doing this calms you down, lowers your stress levels and lowers your heart rate and blood pressure.

[AndyD]

Like most people, my acne flares up when I get stressed. I'm currently studying for six uni exams which will take place in the next two weeks, and my stress levels are pretty high at the moment and on the rise. No matter what I do to relax, given the amount of pressure I am under at the moment it impossible for me not to get stressed . Is there anything I can do to make my pending break out less severe?

Hmm.....acne sucks but exams are like a permanent record type thing. When I had exams, failing out-weighed acne. Its only for 2 weeks of your life, don't think anyone is going to notice during exam time anyway. Focus on the exams, pass it so you never have to get stressed about it again and then deal with the acne because re-taking is a real drag..........