How Stress Impacts Skin Health

The skin is the body's largest organ and often acts as a window into the health of the rest of the body. Stress has been known to affect the skin in several ways, including worsening acne, eczema, and other dermatological conditions. In this post, we'll explore how stress can impact the skin and why it's important to manage stress for skin health.

How Stress Affects the Skin

Acne

When under stress, glands produce more oil, which can worsen acne. Stress causes the body to produce more hormones, including cortisol and androgens, which can stimulate oil glands and hair follicles. Too much oil can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

Eczema

When experiencing chronic stress, your body releases high levels of cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," which can weaken the immune system and trigger inflammation in the body. This rise in inflammation also affects the skin, making eczema symptoms worse.

Other Dermatological Conditions

Stress may lead to heightened inflammation, delayed wound healing, and worsened skin or neuroinflammatory conditions, including:

• Alopecia areata
• Atopic dermatitis
• Chronic spontaneous urticaria
• Contact dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea

Why Is Stress Management Important for Skin Health?

Stress is a normal and common physical, mental, and emotional response to a difficult event. However, managing it is important in order to lead a healthier life.

On top of aggravating aging, hair loss, and skin symptoms, long-term stress can lead to insomnia, weight gain, high blood pressure, mental health disorders, and many other serious health conditions.

Improving skin health starts with taking care of yourself both physically and mentally by drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and practicing relaxation techniques to help manage stress.

The Best Ways To Protect Skin Health in Dallas, TX

At Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas, TX, our team of expert dermatologists is committed to enhancing the health and appearance of our patients' hair, skin, nails, and scalp. We are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of clinical dermatologic conditions, including hair diseases, skin damage, pigmentation issues, allergies, infections, and specific skin cancers.

If you are experiencing stress-related rashes, acne, eczema, psoriasis, or another dermatologic condition that is impacting your comfort, confidence, or health, our skilled dermatology team is here to provide the top-notch, caring support, diagnosis, and treatment you are looking for.

Schedule an appointment with us today by calling (972) 661-2729.