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Pimples, irritations, peeling, redness – over the past year and a half, the number of complaints about increased skin reactivity has increased significantly. There are several reasons for this. But the main one is the increased level of stress and fears for the future.
Previously, the largest number of cosmetic innovations appeared in the anti-aging segment. But the past and present years are breaking records for the release of funds to relieve irritation and the effects of stress. The reason is obvious: the pandemic.
For some, skin reactivity increased after an illness, for others – due to the constant wearing of a mask and rubbing in sanitizers. But experts call stress, an oppressive atmosphere and uncertainty about the future the main culprit for exacerbating skin sensitivity. Why are our experiences so reflected on the skin? She and the nervous system are the closest relatives.
Biology lessons
During intrauterine development, a fertilized egg develops in three directions, which are called leaves. From the ectodermal, bones, muscles and connective tissue are formed. From endodermal – internal organs. And from the mesodermal sheet – the nervous system and skin.
They can be compared to twin sisters, constantly exchanging “telegrams” in separation. That is why negative emotions affect the skin depressingly. Tense nerve endings in it send erratic impulses that disrupt blood circulation, cell function, and sebum secretion.
They can also trigger spontaneous allergic reactions or, conversely, dull self-defense, increase moisture loss, and release pigmentation out of control. Add to this the friction of the mask on the face, which disrupts gas and water exchange. And the very fact that the nose and mouth are covered with a cloth gives rise to an internal feeling of captivity, which exacerbates stress.
Yes, the mask regime in our country is weakening, but there are still enough reasons for increasing skin irritability. And if it is not always possible to get rid of tension and internal fears without outside help, we are quite capable of returning the face to a normal state.
homework
In the past, sensitive skin was equated with dry skin, and products for it came in rich textures. Now manufacturers are recognizing that increased sebum secretion and acne in adults can be the consequences of stress. And they produce soothing drugs in different textures.
The skin acts like a petulant child, using the language it has available to scream about its problems. Even 100 years ago, a Swiss doctor with Russian roots, Nadia Payot, said that skin sensitivity is an increased susceptibility to the effects of physiological and emotional factors.
She also created the first remedy for this problem – Crème No. 2 cream, which remains the brand’s bestseller. And today it has grown into a whole line that solves the problems of irritability of different skin types.
Many brands have rethought the composition of their sedatives, now their main goal is not only momentary stress relief, but also a cumulative-prolonged effect that special complexes provide.
Their goal is to calm the nerve endings and “persuade” them to function normally. For this, targeted neuromolecules are used, soothing plant extracts, such as Centella asiatica, in the so-called Cica creams. As well as mineral complexes based on magnesium and selenium.
Another reason for skin sensitivity is a change in its microbiome. This collection of beneficial microorganisms on the surface of the epidermis maintains its balance and provides protection. With changes in the microflora under the influence of various factors, the skin begins to react painfully even to the usual cosmetics. Therefore, products with pre- and probiotics will also help bring her condition back to normal.
It would seem that the choice of effective means to reduce skin reactivity is great. But many are in no hurry to change their anti-aging cream for them, fearing that the skin will begin to fade faster. Although in reality, stress and internal inflammation age it much faster. And if you return the cells and nerves to a comfortable state, then you will look younger and fresher. And this in itself is an anti-stress.