A celebrity dermatologist reveals how stress could be messing with your skin

Stress can have an effect on your physical health, and unfortunately your skin is the most affected by it.
stress effects on skin
All that stress is going to show! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Nikita Bhardwaj Published: 20 Mar 2021, 12:24 pm IST
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If you think that stress only has mental implications then you are highly mistaken. It can actually take a physical toll on your body as well. It has an impact on your organs, eating patterns, and hormones. The most visible effects of stress show up on our skin.

The effects of stress on our skin are such that even after proper hydration and using the best skin care products, the skin continues to look dull. 

Here’s what stress does to your skin

According to the renowned dermatologist, Dr Ajay Rana, stress can increase the chemical response in the body that makes skin more sensitive and reactive. It is the result of excessive stress that delays the healing of wounds. 

“Someone who is under a lot of stress might skip their skincare routine, aggravating their dermal issues,” he said. 

Effects of stress on skin
Stress isn’t good for your skin. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Dr Ajay says that these are the 6 skin problems that are more common amongst those who are experiencing a high level of stress:

1. Dry skin
2. Premature ageing or wrinkles
3. Acne
4. Dandruff
5. Under-eye bags
6. Rashes

He said, “When we feel stressed, our body produces an excess amount of the hormone called cortisol. It basically causes the hypothalamus, a part of the brain, to produce corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). CRH stimulates oil release from sebaceous glands around the hair follicles. Excessive oil production by these glands can clog the pores of the skin and lead to acne.”

Sleep deprivation is also the result of stress that increases the signs of ageing, such as fine lines, reduced elasticity, and uneven pigmentation. Reduction in the elasticity of the skin can contribute to the formation of bags under the eyes. Stress impairs the barrier function of the stratum corneum and affects the skin’s water retention ability.

Unfortunately, stress can also weaken the immune system. A weakened immune system can lead to an imbalance of bacteria in the gut and cause the skin to appear red or even develop a rash.

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Thankfully, there are ways to deal with stress-related skin problems:
  • Practise breathing exercises that can help reduce stress and minimize the chances of developing rashes.
  • Engage in meditation exercises for 10 minutes.
  • Drink a lot of water and eat a well-balanced diet. The body can’t handle stress well if it’s not properly nourished.
  • Try to practice stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or visual imagery.
  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep every day.

So, try to bring down your stress levels and see a positive change in the health of your skin.

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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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