Skin Stressors!
Just like the rest of the organs in our body, the skin can display signs of stress. Lifestyle choices, and daily environmental exposures all affect the way our body performs. Here are some of the most common skin stressors and what you can do to help counteract the damage with skin loving nutrients and protection.
Sun Exposure
The #1 skin damager! UVA and UVB light causes DNA damage in skin cells, oxidative stress, photo-aging and even skin cancer. It “eats up” our collagen and elastin fibers and limits the skin’s ability to provide cell turnover and barrier function.
Air Pollution
Almost impossible to avoid, air pollutants lead to oxidative stress, inflammation and exacerbate chronic conditions such as acne, rashes, hives, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. For some, exposure to secondhand smoke, excessive car exhaust, even agricultural pollutants can contribute to premature skin aging and even skin cancer.
Extreme Temperatures
Living in the Valley, we are definitely exposed to excessive heat during our hot, dry summers, however cold temperatures can equally dehydrate skin, directly impacting the way the barrier & microbiome function. This can trigger skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and can even affect the way our skin does or does not produce oil.
Smoking & Diet
Lifestyle choices directly impact the way our bodies function. Smoking contains toxins that constrict blood flow, reduce oxygen and greatly accelerate the aging process. Nicotine has even been linked to uneven hyperpigmentation & melasma. What you choose to eat, not eat, drink or not drink, exposure to tobacco all contribute to long term negative symptoms within our skin. Inadequate hydration and an unbalanced diet causes inflammation, dry, itchy skin and exacerbates conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. The gut directly impacts how our bodily systems function and our skin reflects it all!
Solutions!!
Given the inevitability of environmental stress exposure, it is important to choose skincare products that are going to give you the biggest bang for your buck! There is no FDA oversight for cosmetics and skincare in the U.S., so much of what is available is hype, ineffective or just plain consumer rip-offs. There are 6 main ingredients that show consistent, long standing dermatology research support. They aid skin’s microbiome & boost the barrier, as well as encourage cell turnover abilities and protect skin from excessive damage & premature aging. Next time you are skincare shopping, consider adding some of these skin-loving ingredients into your home routine.
Alphahydroxy & Betahydroxy Acids (AHAs & BHAs)
These exfoliators, such as glycolic, lactic, & salicylic, as well as enzymes, like papain and bromelain are extremely effective at removing dead skin cells from the surface, exposing healthy, new active cells.
Vitamin C
L Ascorbic Acid is hands down one of the best antioxidants for protecting the skin from damaging free radicals & premature aging.
Hyaluronic Acid
A protein found in the body, this humectant can hold 1000 times its molecular weight in water!
Niacinamide
A form of Niacin - Vitamin B3, a water soluable, skin-loving ingredient that strengthens skin cell walls. It makes them more resilient and able to ward off the bad stuff!
Retinoids
Derived from Vitamin A, this is a must for stimulating the production and pushing forward of new skin cells, diminishing fine lines, sun damage, rough, dry patches and acne causing bacteria.
SPF 30+
Dermatology experts all agree: sun protection is essential for healthy, glowing skin and aging gracefully. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Choose SPF 30 or higher for daily use; higher SPF for prolonged outdoor exposure & apply generously to all exposed areas 15–30 minutes before going outside.
Catherine M. Puckett, LE, MEd. March 2026