Stress And Skin Diseases - Breaking The Vicious Cycle

Chronic stress triggers skin issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, creating a vicious cycle. Managing stress through relaxation, skincare, and a healthy lifestyle can help break this connection.

{By: Dr. Simrat Sandhu}

Stress is a major factor that can trigger and worsen skin diseases, and these diseases also reflect a person’s general health.

To examine the consequences of stress on the skin, dermatological disorders such as hair loss, psoriasis, and even acne should be considered, as well as understanding the impact stress has on one's health.

 Impact Of Stress On Skin 

1. Oil Production Raise

Sebaceous glands are stimulated to an increased degree with the emission of cortisol which results in heightened oil production. This leads to acne breakouts and skin damage.

2. Weakens Skin Barrier

Moisture retention and skin healing becomes a challenge with chronic stress. The skin further becomes sensitive to irritation and prone to increased itching and dryness.

3. Inflammatory Skin Condition Trigger

Psoriasis, eczema, and even rosacea are known to worsen with stress due to an increase in bodily inflammation.

4. Wound Healing Delay

Healing of the skin is delayed with stress due to the slower natural healing cycle which lengthens the duration of acne scars as well as skin wounds.

Breaking The Skin-Stress Cycle

1. Stress Management Approaches

• Mindfulness And Meditation: It is believed that practices such as meditation, mild yoga exercises, and even deep breathing can help in reducing pre-existing stress.


• Regular Workout Routines: Skin health has been linked with an activity surge as workout routines enhance blood circulation and decrease skin stress hormones. 


• Rest: A good quality of sleep of 7 to 9 hours is essential. Lack of sleep leads to heightened cortisol levels which worsen already inflicted skin conditions. 

2. Changes To Skincare Routine

• Apply soothing ingredients like ceramides, aloe vera and niacinamides to inflammatory areas.


• Do not apply skincare products easily in the attempt to calm stressed skin.


• Apply a moisturiser free of any scent or exfoliative agents to deeply hydrate the skin and reinforce the skin barrier. 

3. Healthy Diet And Drinking Habits

• Consuming a healthy diet containing anti-oxidising agents such as vegetables, fruits and or green tea is beneficial when fighting inflammation caused by stress.


• Keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of water aids in skin hydration as well as detoxing the skin. 

4. Consulting A Professional

If self help methods do not resolve the issue, visiting a dermatologist can prove beneficial in providing the right treatment for the stress related skin issue. In certain scenarios, therapy aimed at managing stress may also be helpful.

Knowing how stress affects skin health is an important part of an adequate skin care routine. Incorporating stress management methods, adopting a skin care schedule, as well as professional help will aid in overcoming the cycle of complex issues leading to healthy clear skin.  

The authored Dr. Simrat Sandhu is a Cosmetic Physician at Cosmetique By Dr. Simrat Sandhu

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]