How does stress impact the skin?

Stress is a common experience in today's fast-paced world, and its effects extend beyond mental health to impact various aspects of physical well-being, including the skin.

In this informative article, leading consultant dermatologist Dr Christina Leitner explores how stress can affect the skin and what measures can be taken to mitigate its impact.

What is stress?

Stress is the body's natural response to challenges or threats, triggering a cascade of physiological changes aimed at preparing the body to deal with perceived danger or adversity. While short-term stress can be adaptive and help individuals cope with immediate threats, chronic or prolonged stress can have detrimental effects on health, including the skin.

How does stress affect the skin?

Stress can influence the skin in several ways:

Worsening of existing skin conditions: For individuals with pre-existing skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, stress can exacerbate symptoms and lead to flare-ups. Stress-induced changes in hormone levels and immune function may contribute to increased inflammation and skin sensitivity.

Impaired skin barrier function: Chronic stress can compromise the skin's natural barrier function, leading to increased water loss and susceptibility to environmental irritants and allergens. This can result in dryness, redness, and heightened sensitivity.

Delayed wound healing: Stress has been shown to impair the body's ability to heal wounds and injuries. High levels of stress hormones such as cortisol can interfere with the inflammatory response and collagen production, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of infection.

Accelerated skin ageing: Chronic stress may contribute to premature ageing of the skin by inducing inflammation in the skin via various pathways that may accelerate skin ageing. However, there is currently no firm evidence that the impact on the immune system directly translates into the clinical classic appearance of skin ageing such as wrinkling, fine lines and mid-facial sagging. Loss of elasticity of the skin via impact on its barrier function can certainly lead to dry, wrinkled and aged appearance of the skin.

Coping strategies for managing stress and protecting the skin

While it may not be possible to eliminate stress entirely, there are several strategies that individuals can employ to manage stress and minimise its impact on the skin:

Stress reduction techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can help alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm.

Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce stress levels, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Exercise also promotes blood circulation, which can benefit the skin by delivering oxygen and nutrients to its cells.

Healthy lifestyle choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular hydration can support skin health and resilience. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and caffeine can also help mitigate the effects of stress on the skin.

Skincare routine: Establishing a consistent skincare routine tailored to your skin type can help protect the skin from environmental stressors and maintain its barrier function. This may include gentle cleansing, moisturising, and using sunscreen daily to protect against UV radiation.

Seeking professional help

If stress is significantly impacting your skin health or overall well-being, it may be beneficial to seek professional help from a dermatologist and/or mental health professional. They can provide tailored recommendations and treatment options to address specific skin concerns and manage stress-related symptoms effectively.

While stress is an inevitable part of life, its impact on the skin can be managed through stress reduction techniques, healthy lifestyle choices, and appropriate skincare practices. By prioritising self-care and seeking professional support when needed, individuals can minimise the adverse effects of stress on their skin and promote overall health and well-being.

If you experience a skin condition exacerbated by stress, and would like to know how to manage it, arrange a consultation via Dr Leitner’s Top Doctors profile.