There are many ways mental health can impact our physical health, but did you know stress can even affect how our skin looks and feels? Dermatologists assert that it is accurate.
Dermatologist Dr. Afton Cobb says she sees patients all the time who notice “the triggering factor that made their skin condition worse was stress in their lives.”
“It is remarkable how much tension impacts our entire body, but our skin is particularly susceptible,” she asserts.
What is the mechanism by which this occurs? It pertains to hormones.
“When you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones that have a tremendous impact on your entire body, including your skin,” says dermatologist Dr. Samer Jaber of Washington Square Dermatology in New York.
He asserts that cortisol is one of the primary hormones released, which can lead to the worsening of acne and the increase in oil gland secretion, resulting in clogged pores.
Your epidermis barrier may also be influenced by stress.
“Dry skin and flares of dermatitis or psoriasis may occur when the skin barrier is compromised,” he elaborates.
Cobb also notes that research has demonstrated that tension can exacerbate atopic dermatitis, which is another term for eczema. It’s a chronic condition with symptoms including itchy, dry, red patches on the skin.
Stress hormones can also impact how our skin ages by breaking down collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to decreased skin elasticity.
“This has the potential to exacerbate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and accelerate the aging process of the epidermis,” Jaber asserts.
Is hair loss a result of stress?
It’s not just your skin; chronic or severe stress can impact your hair too.
“Stress can trigger autoimmune patches of hair loss called alopecia areata and cause diffuse hair shedding called telogen effluvium,” Jaber says. “There was also a study in mice that showed chronic stress may accelerate the greying of hair.”
Cobb also notes that scalp itch may be a symptom of anxiety, depression, or tension.
How to prevent skin issues associated with stress
Jaber says the best way to treat your skin to prevent the damage of stress is to first have a simple, regular skin care routine.
“Ensure that you are consistent,” he advises. “Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, use a sunscreen regularly and make sure to keep your skin moisturized.”
Next, the tension itself must be managed to enhance skin conditions.
“You may not always be able to eliminate this stress from your life, but you can surely sway your response to it,” Cobb asserts. “Occasionally, we will discuss the possibility of facilitating communication with a therapist, ensuring that they have a supportive network, and attempting to mitigate the distressing etiology, if feasible.”
This can assist in the prevention of a cycle of stress-induced skin issues, such as acne flares, which may result in skin picking for individuals who are agitated or anxious, further exacerbating the situation.
In addition to enhancing overall health, lifestyle modifications can also alleviate tension and enhance skin health.
“Stress can also be alleviated by regular exercise, excellent nutrition, meditation, and spending time with friends or loved ones,” Jaber notes. “If necessary, do not hesitate to seek professional treatment from a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist.”
