Stress is an unavoidable part of everyday life. While a small amount of it can help keep us focused and motivated, too much stress can lead to a host of health issues, including skin problems. According to a London-based medical aesthetician, stress can manifest itself on the skin in several ways, including breakouts, flare-ups of certain skin conditions, and premature ageing.
Dr Gizem Seymenoglu, a facial aesthetics practitioner, explains:
“Have you ever noticed your skin tends to break out more when you’re stressed out? That’s because stress acne is a very real thing, and it can affect both young and old."
"This happens because the body releases a type of hormone called cortisol when it’s under pressure and overwhelmed. It stimulates the sebum-producing glands in the skin, and the excess sebum (oil) then clogs the pores and causes acne.”
The expert also warns that feeling anxious may make you more likely to pick at your skin, especially when it comes to popping pimples, but doing so will only make matters worse.
“Trying to seek momentary relief by popping a pimple should certainly be avoided because it can cause scarring and even more acne. In this case, it is best to keep pimples out of sight and out of mind by using a pimple patch.”
Besides triggering breakouts, Dr Gizem says that stress can also worsen certain pre-existing skin conditions.
“It is one of the triggers of rosacea, but not just that, stress can also worsen the symptoms of this condition, which include redness, formation of pimple-like bumps and dryness, among others."
"Similarly, this can trigger flare-ups of eczema and psoriasis and worsen their symptoms. Hives or skin rashes are another possibility, which can cause itchiness and form patches on the skin. And all this is likely to do with the inflammatory response caused by stress.”
Worryingly, Dr Gizem added that tension can cause premature ageing of the skin as well:
“Cortisol can negatively affect collagen production in the skin. Also, stress can cause oxidative stress, an imbalance of antioxidants and free radicals in the body, which can age the skin and exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.”
Last but not least, the aesthetician mentions that some people might not feel like investing in a skincare routine when worried or upset, further aggravating the issue.
Since stress is at the centre of it all, Dr Gizem advises dealing with the root cause as well as going to a dermatologist:
“There are several ways to relax at home, including meditation, yoga, journaling, exercising and of course seeking professional help. But it’s also important that if you are experiencing a skin problem, you should get in touch with your skin doctor for a proper treatment plan. While there are a lot of great skincare products out there, they are not the answer to every problem.”
