With the current economic recession, you’re probably feeling more stress than usual. And whether you like it or not, this will affect the condition of your skin.

In an article in Financial Times (FT.com), Tatiana Boncompagni reports that unhealthy skin can be rooted to stress, particularly stress caused by the recession. Boncompagni cites the findings of Dr. Amy Weschler, a renowned psychiatrist and dermatologist.

According to Weschler, there has been a rise of incidents related to sallow skin, eye bags, eczema, rosacea, hives and cold sores. All of these skin disorders can be rooted from stress, which causes the body to release increased amounts of free radicals that disrupt healthy skin cells.

Dr. Howard Sobel, a NY-based dermatologist, free radicals attack the skin’s collagen manufacturers, which leads to a breakdown of elastin. This results to reduced skin elasticity, sagging, and wrinkles.

However, one can manage to maintain healthy and radiant skin despite tremendous stress. This involves a few simple practices: (1) eat anti-oxidant rich foods, i.e. blueberries, red beans, etc. (2) take multivitamins daily (3) socializing and exercising—this regulates blood circulation and releases endorphins, and (4) topical procedures, for example—laser treatments to reinvigorate complexion.

It is also recommended that you visit your dermatologist regularly. You can ask him/her to give you a list of recommended anti-oxidants. To top it all off, you should approach things with positive thinking. A heavy economy will be made heavier by a troubled mind. Be optimistic, because your psychological disposition counts.