Stress is an unavoidable reality of modern life; however, prolonged exposure can aggravate certain skin conditions, including neuroinflammatory diseases like psoriasis, eczema and vitiligo. Chronic stress may aggravate existing skin conditions while contributing to new ones by aggravating existing ones.
Stress has an adverse effect on skin due to hormone release by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, nerves, and skin cells.
1. Increased Oil Production
Cortisol production increases as does skin oiliness as this stress hormone restricts immunity, increases inflammation and accelerates aging by breaking down collagen and elastin resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, it stimulates sebaceous glands to produce more oil which clogs pores leading to breakouts; furthermore it triggers flare-ups of psoriasis among those predisposed.
Manage these symptoms through skincare, lifestyle changes and professional treatments. Avoiding sugary and processed snacks while increasing consumption of healthy fats from fish and flaxseeds is one way to balance oils and reduce inflammation. Drinking plenty of water also contributes to better skin health by keeping it hydrated; keeping hydration levels optimal will decrease excess shine while preventing overproduction of oil.
2. Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural body response designed to clear away harmful bacteria, damaged cells and debris in tissues. Unfortunately, chronic stress can increase inflammation in skin conditions like psoriasis while simultaneously initiating new ones like rosacea.
This inflammatory response weakens skin’s barrier function and leaves it more susceptible to allergens, irritants and environmental pollutants, slowing wound healing time. Scarring can take longer to fade and cuts heal more slowly as well. A diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may help lower systemic inflammation; seeking emotional and mental health support is also invaluable in managing stress levels – together with effective skincare measures, these measures will keep skin looking and feeling its best!
3. Decreased Barrier Function
Skin is one of the body’s largest organs and serves an integral function as both an immediate stress detector and mediator of psychological responses to stress. Furthermore, it plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis between external environments and internal tissues.
Stress produces cortisol which in turn stimulates sebaceous glands to produce more oil, leading to excess production that clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Touching one’s face or forgoing skincare routines further exacerbates this situation resulting in dryness and irritation on their faces.
Stressful conditions, like eczema and dermatitis, can worsen when under pressure, creating flare-ups that further compound stress. Achieve adequate restful sleep while eating nutritious, antioxidant-rich food will be effective in mitigating anxiety; additionally it’s wise to seek professional advice if necessary for mental health concerns.
4. Increased Sensitivity
More people report having sensitive skin, with more reporting it on a daily basis than ever before.1 This type of sensitivities is usually due to generalised stress reactions rather than specific allergies or reactions against individual substances.
Stressful situations can contribute to red, itchy and flaky skin as well as dryness, while it may even trigger rashes or hives in vulnerable people, and cause reactions against products or ingredients which previously caused no problems.
Stress management and healthy habits for skin health are of utmost importance, which is why consulting a dermatologist who understands both can assist you in making necessary changes that suit you personally.
5. Inflammatory Conditions
Stress has the power to worsen neuroinflammatory conditions such as psoriasis (red, flaky plaques), eczema, dermatitis and alopecia areata, among others. Therefore, mental health interventions designed to promote mood improvement, coping skills and quality of life should be employed when managing these skin diseases.
Stress causes our bodies to go into survival mode, producing cortisol as a key stress hormone and thus altering immune function by increasing inflammation and decreasing antimicrobial activity.
Stress can cause inflammation that leads to weakened barriers and increased moisture loss, leaving skin dry, flaky and more susceptible to conditions like psoriasis and eczema as well as premature ageing and dull complexions. Reducing stress levels by eating a nutritious diet and managing stress effectively are ways to promote positive skin health results.
