April is the official month of stress awareness. It is a recognised month that focuses on bringing attention to the negative impacts of stress and providing advice for managing stress in everyday life. Managing stress is an important element of keeping ourselves healthy, both physically and mentally. And there are many things a person can do to help manage stress or ‘de-stress’. So, since stress is such a big topic this month, we thought it would be a good idea to contribute to the discussion around stress management and wellbeing, offering some small beauty wellness tips that will not only support the process of de-stressing but reduce signs of stress on your skin.

The effects of stress on your body

Signs of stress appear in a wide range of ways, and depending on your skin type, hair type, and more, you may notice a variety of changes to your skin, body, and hair during periods of increased stress.

Some common signs of stress that you may notice include:

• Hair loss or hair thinning
• Acne breakouts
• Dry skin
• The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin rashes and hives
• Flare ups of certain skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema

We would always recommend speaking to a doctor or medical professional if you are struggling with stress and any health related concerns. However, some of the wellness tips below are small steps you can take that will not only allow you to pamper yourself but also treat some of the minor side effects of stress on your skin and hair.

Treat your skin to some essential hydration

Treat your skin to some nourishment and hydration. Not only is dry skin a common side effect of stress, but dehydrated skin can lead to premature ageing and sometimes irritation. Plus, pampering your skin and spending time practising a thorough skincare routine in the evening is a great way to give yourself some time to relax and unwind after a busy day.

For ultra hydration and skin pampering, we would suggest using a rich moisturiser at night. Some of our favourites for nourishing the skin include moisturisers from Clinique, such as their Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion (50ml) which is well known for providing 8 hours of hydration. This product can be used day and night, and is ideal for dry and very dry skin types.

Give yourself some ‘me time’ with a relaxing bath

Taking some time to yourself once a day or a few times a week is the ideal way to unwind and relax. Allowing you to gather your thoughts and ease any feelings of anxiety or worry. Running a warm bath provides a great solution for relaxing and calming your body. Not only does the warmth of the water encourage relaxation, it will also support easing muscle tension and any aches and pains you may be experiencing as a result of your busy lifestyle.

To support your relaxation time, why not introduce some luxurious bath and body products to your bath routine? At Perfume Direct we sell a range of bath and body gift sets, including the Style & Grace Kind Blockbuster Pamper Gift Set which includes everything you would need to truly enjoy a pampered bath.

Create a peaceful environment for improved sleep

One of the best ways you can support your body to de-stress is to get more sleep. As we sleep our bodies enter a restoration process, promoting better physical and mental health. According to medical experts, adults require between 7-9 hours of sleep per night, to feel well-rested. For those who struggle to sleep, you may notice feelings of stress are more common, which is why finding solutions to optimise your sleep schedule is important.

One of the most effective ways to induce sleep and to better your night of sleep is to create an environment that your body and mind can truly relax in. Staying away from your phone before bed and removing other sources of light and distraction is a good place to start. You then may wish to introduce scents and temperatures that will become a part of your bedtime routine. At Perfume Direct we stock a range of candles that are the perfect accompaniment to your bedtime routine or bath. These candles, including the Eau Lovely Dublin Eau So Grateful Candle (With Moonstone Crystals) are a great addition to a relaxing evening, perfect for helping create an environment that supports your body and mind as you relax and unwind ready for a quality night’s sleep.