Even the slightest change in the hormone levels of the body can lead to a number of negative effects. With time, these symptoms can worsen if left unattended. But in many cases, even simple changes made in everyday lifestyle have proven useful in resolving a number of skin-related issues in women.
Let’s look at 5 tried and tested ways to help control hormone-related skin issues in women.
Consume clean, plant-based nutrition: What we eat has a direct impact on overall wellness including skin health. Hence it is important to nourish skin from the inside with clean, plant based foods that are high in essential macro and micronutrients. Experts across the globe recommend avoiding processed foods as they cause more harm than good to the skin and overall health. Eating clean foods that are devoid of harmful chemicals and artificial ingredients can help rejuvenate skin from the inside. Such foods are also helpful in combating hormonal disorders like PCOS which could be the root cause of skin concerns like acne. It is recommended that you consume lots of greens, wholefoods and plant-based nutrition on a daily basis to combat skin concerns like acne. Also start lessening your daily sugar and salt intake if you want to stay clear of skin-complications, metabolic diseases, and insulin resistance. Excess sugar and salt in your diet can lead to a number of undesirable hormone responses that can harm your skin and overall health.
Sleep well: A good night’s sleep can do wonders to your skin health. A sound sleep can help maintain hormonal balance in the body. Inadequate sleep can also lead to an increase in cortisol levels that creates inflammation and reduces skin glow. Hence ensure you get 6-8 hours of sleep every night.
Relax your mind: There is a direct relation between surging stress levels and the quality of skin health in women. Researchers opine that even low levels of stress can lead to an undesirable hormonal response. This is mainly because stress can increase adrenaline and cortisol levels in the body. If these hormonal levels escalate, it can cause negative outcomes in the body like skin-issues, obesity, mood swings, and even heart issues. Therefore, it is best to curb those rising stress levels at the earliest by seeking professional help. You can even do simple things such as listening to music or taking a walk. All you need is the intent to relax and rest assured; relax you will!
30-min exercise: Start exercising if you haven’t already. It not only restricts overeating but also alleviates hormonal escalations. Various studies show that exercising 30-minutes daily can be beneficial in decreasing the risk of skin-based problems, insulin resistance, metabolic syndromes, and type-2 diabetes. You can take a brisk walk or do yoga or even do high intensity training depending upon your interest. What’s important is to be consistent and make these physical activities a part of your daily routine.
Hydrate your body: Drink lots of water daily. Experts recommend consuming 2-3 liters everyday to cleanse your system and flush out toxins. You can also have healthy drinks such as green tea or matcha tea, filled with antioxidants and compounds that enhance skin health, metabolism and helps reduce fasting insulin levels.
Switch to clean beauty: While you nourish your body with the right nutrients and take care of stress levels, it is also important to take a look at skin care products that you apply on your skin. Using clean beauty products i.e skin care products without harmful chemicals like parabens, heavy metals, sulphates etc can help heal the skin and enhance its appearance. According to certain studies by NCBI, chemicals like Parabens can affect hormone Estrogen. Hence it is best to stay clear of beauty products with such harsh chemicals. Ensure that you also use sunscreen regardless of the season to avoid any direct bright blue electronic lights such as the one emanating from cell phones or computer screens. It has been scientifically established that intermittent or long-term exposure to any bright artificial lighting can confound the body which in turn leads to the suppression of the hormone melatonin. This can cause a number of complications. It is recommended that you avoid any kind of direct artificial lighting to preserve the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
Hormone: Related ailments may seem to be a troublesome affair as they can take a toll on your skin and overall well-being. But it’s not impossible to overcome them. Following a clean and holistic lifestyle with the aforementioned steps can prove most beneficial. Start your journey towards holistic wellness and see your skin health improve gradually.
With inputs from Aarti Gill, Co-founder, OZiva.
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