Life is increasingly stressful for young Kiwi women as they juggle finances, career ambitions, and relationships, according to research released today, and it is starting to show on their skin.

The Neutrogena® One Less Stress Survey* conducted on campus at Auckland University, Canterbury University and online throughout May 2010, has revealed that the everyday stress felt by NZ women aged 18 - 25 is manifesting itself in breakouts.

With 77% of One Less Stress Survey participants stating work and studies as a major stressor, 60% of young women surveyed reported feeling depressed, insecure or self conscious when they have pimples or acne, kick starting a vicious ‘stress cycle’ resulting in even more spots and increased stress levels.

Based on these results, an improvement in general skin condition would lead to a reduction in stressors, so Neutrogena® has launched the NEW Oil-Free Acne Stress Control™ to help prevent pimples and acne before it emerges, leaving women with one less stress to deal with in their everyday lives.

Australian Dermatologist, Dr John Sullivan, explains that stress exacerbates any disease or illness and acne is no exception.

“Many people associate acne flares with periods of increased emotional and/or physical stress. Not only do female ovarian hormones affect the hair follicle where pimples form, so do a number of other hormones and signals produced by other organs, including a number which increase in response to emotional or physical stress,” said Sullivan.
“Emotional eating of high GI food can also be a contributing factor as can a stress induced disturbance in a female’s normal menstrual cycle. Thus an acne control program should include everyday skin care incorporating preventive measures to reduce or prevent the visible signs of acne.”

Despite 92% of young women admitting to sobbing profusely when stressed or turning to an unhealthy lifestyle to combat stress, it’s positive to see that many of those surveyed are also indulging in more calming ways to alleviate the tension in their lives – with 53% choosing to listen to music and 59% turning to friends during the tough times.

To celebrate the importance of finding new ways to de-stress, Neutrogena One Less Stress is giving away 150 tickets to an exclusive Auckland event taking place in August to help put the worries of Kiwi women behind them, and more stress relieving music into them. For more information and to be into win, go to http://www.facebook.com/Neutrogena-One-Less-Stress-NZ.