How Stress Ages Your Skin – Our First Podcast Episode with Smita and Haran Rasalingam

We’re delighted to introduce Luna Microcare’s brand-new podcast series: a space where beauty meets science, and skincare meets emotional wellbeing. In this debut episode, join Smita—founder of Smita London and a celebrated skin expert—and her husband Haran Rasalingam, psychotherapist and founder of Thought Bubble Psychotherapy, as they dive deep into a vital and timely topic: how stress visibly affects the skin.

This powerful conversation merges dermatological science with psychological insight, revealing how deeply interconnected our emotions are with our skin health. Stress isn’t just a feeling—it’s a physiological cascade that leaves a lasting mark. From hormonal shifts like cortisol spikes to poor lifestyle habits triggered by emotional strain, stress ages our skin in more ways than we often realise.

Key highlights include the role of cortisol, the impact of oxidative stress and free radicals, how sleep and diet influence skin ageing, and why emotional care is essential for skin vitality. These themes are expertly discussed by Smita and Haran, whose shared insights make for an enlightening, heartwarming listen.

Why Stress and Skin Are Deeply Connected

Stress isn’t just something we feel internally—it shows up on our faces. In our fast-paced, high-pressure world, understanding the link between mental health and skincare is more important than ever. Stress triggers a cascade of biological processes that compromise skin health. It can weaken the skin barrier, increase inflammation, and accelerate collagen loss.

Our emotional state affects our hormones, diet, and sleep habits—all of which have profound effects on the skin. When we are stressed:

• Cortisol levels rise, increasing skin sensitivity and oiliness.
• Free radicals surge, causing oxidative stress and DNA damage.
• The skin barrier becomes compromised, leading to dryness and breakouts.
• Collagen production slows, leading to fine lines and loss of elasticity.
• Gut health is disrupted, affecting nutrient absorption and increasing skin inflammation.
• Sleep deprivation limits cellular repair and regeneration overnight.

Highlights from the Episode

3.1 What Cortisol Does to the Skin

“When we’re stressed, our cortisol levels spike – which puts the skin into fight-or-flight mode.” – Smita (03:20)

Cortisol is a stress hormone with a powerful impact on skin function. Elevated cortisol levels reduce the skin’s ability to regenerate and repair, increasing inflammation and decreasing skin thickness over time. Chronically high cortisol impairs circulation and hydration, leaving the skin dull and depleted.

3.2 Free Radicals, Oxidative Stress & Collagen Breakdown

“You’ll have more baddies than goodies – and that’s what damages the skin barrier.” – Smita (04:30)

Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and the antioxidants that neutralize them. This imbalance damages skin cells, collagen, and elastin. It leads to collagen breakdown, elasticity loss, and premature ageing.

3.3 Stress and Behaviour: A Therapist’s View

3.4 Sugar, Sleep and the Skin

“If you’re not sleeping, your skin isn’t repairing.” – Smita

Lack of sleep contributes to increased sugar cravings, which leads to glycation—a process where sugar molecules bind to collagen, weakening its structure. Smita also highlights the gut-skin connection and gives tips for better nutrition and sleep.

When Beauty Meets Therapy

“Clients lie on the bed and tell you everything – it’s deeply emotional.” – Smita

This episode highlights how deeply intertwined skin and soul really are. For both Smita and Haran, their work involves emotional healing. A skincare session can become a form of therapy. Emotional stress, when unresolved, will show up on the skin—making this a two-way street of healing.

Supporting Stressed Skin: Luna Microcare’s Approach

At Luna Microcare, we understand how stress impacts the skin barrier. Our approach is rooted in science and self-care. Designed to reduce inflammation and restore skin resilience, our products are ideal for sensitive, stressed skin.

Our Skin Recovery Patches are designed to protect and soothe skin showing signs of stress and fatigue. These targeted patches help to repair the skin barrier, reduce redness, and infuse hydration where it’s needed most.

Watch the Full Episode

This conversation between Smita and Haran is full of practical insights and heartfelt reflections. Watch the full episode to explore how the skin mirrors emotional states, and discover ways to care for both your inner and outer self.

To continue your journey:

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