Erase stress from your face with these natural remedies

Unless you just returned from some kind of retreat, you're likely wearing your stress on your face — like the rest of us. And while stress is a common occurrence in our lives, it's not so fun when people tell you that you look stressed or tired. So natural beauty expert and certified aromatherapist Sandy Gold stopped by The Goods to help identify the culprits behind those tell-tale signs of stress — and show us how to erase them — because there's no need to advertise it all over your face.

The issue: Dry skin

When we're really stressed, our bodies release stress hormones which can negatively affect our skin in many ways, such as how our skin holds onto moisture. And dry skin can also lead to a loss of luminosity, making you look even more stressed out.

Solution: Erase it by exfoliating

We've all heard of dry body brushing, but it also works wonders on your face. But don't use the same brush! The brush for your face is similar to your body brush, but much less harsh and is made specifically for the delicate skin on the face, with ultra-fine, soft bristles. It helps to increase circulation and purify the skin as well as exfoliate and remove the outer layer of dull, dry skin cells leaving the appearance of skin noticeably softer, smoother and brighter. And it's all natural, no exfoliating product needed. Plus it's super easy to do and takes less than a minute — no excuses!

How to use a dry brush

Use a dry brush on clean skin only! This way you're not opening your pores and then clogging them back up with makeup. Gently brush dry skin in small circular motions in an upward and outward motion. Start from your chin and move up and out toward your hairline on one side of the face, and then move to the other side of the face, using light gentle strokes. It should feel relaxing, like a gentle facial massage. Repeat twice a week for best results to see softer, smoother and even brighter skin.

The issue: Breakouts

Stress can increase the skin's oil production which can lead to breakouts — which is is the last thing you need when you're already feeling run down.

Solution: Erase it with a probiotic face mask

Not just for smoothies anymore, kefir is a fermented milk drink that is loaded with probiotics. Research and evidence is growing for the use of probiotics in the treatment of acne not just internally, but also topically as a face mask to help calm skin inflammation and fight bad bacteria naturally. Plus, cold kefir from the fridge feels soothing on the skin. All you'll need is kefir, cotton balls and a bowl.

How to make a mask

1. In a bowl mix 2 tbsp of plain kefir (unflavoured, unsweetened).

2. Dip a large cotton ball into the kefir and apply to clean skin.

3. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Wash and rinse off.

The issue: Fine lines & wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles are often called "worry lines" because they're associated with stress.

Solution: Erase them by using a facial serum

A facial serum can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Serum's are packed full of beneficial ingredients that are made up of smaller molecules, which are specifically designed to penetrate deeply into the skin in ways an everyday moisturizer can't. They're like a moisturizer with a multi-vitamin for your skin. Serums are often used to help target specific skin care concerns to give your skin a smoother, firmer texture, increase moisture levels and even reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And, because they penetrate deeply into the skin, it's extra important to look for a serum that uses organic ingredients that will feed the skin healthy nutrients.

The main ingredient to look for in a serum is rosehip seed oil. It's been nicknamed the "anti-aging" oil. Rosehip seed oil comes from the seeds of rose bushes and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6) that deeply hydrate, nourish and protect the skin, as well as minimize the appearance of age spots, fine lines and wrinkles. It's also a natural source of Vitamin A and C. It's not an essential oil, so it can be used undiluted and alone, directly on the skin or combined with other ingredients in a serum.

How to apply a serum

Serums won't work as well if used incorrectly. For best results, make sure to apply at night when your skin has time to heal and repair. And only apply to clean skin that has just been freshly washed and rinsed with warm water. The increased blood flow in warm skin enhances the penetration and effects of the serum ingredients. Less is more — serums are highly concentrated, so a small pea-sized amount is all you need. Gently press the serum into the skin so that you are literally pressing the ingredients into the skin rather than slathering it on like a typical cream.