79% of the global population experiences some degree of stress - it's something many of us have learned to live with. But stress can lead to a slew of psychological and physical side effects, from fatigue and irritability to headaches and acne.
Remember - your skin is an outward reflection of how you feel inside. So it makes sense that stress and inner turmoil could manifest as pimples and breakouts.
So, keep reading, and we'll tell you more about the close-knit relationship between stress and adult acne.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, stress can contribute to acne, just like acne can contribute to stress. Stress is a contributing factor to acne, not a direct cause.
- Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when sebaceous glands are clogged by dead skin cells, bacteria, and excess oils.
- Stress signals to your body to produce certain hormones that can increase sebum production. This, in turn, can clog pores and cause acne.
- Things like stress management, relaxation practices, and skincare treatments can all help with stress and acne.
See Related: 5 Benefits of Macadamia Oil for Your Skin
What Is Acne? An Overview of This Skin Condition
It's a myth that puberty-prone teenagers are the sole victims of acne. Even women in their 40s or 50s can get a pimple or two every now and again. In fact, 25% of women over the age of 40 still experience some form of acne.
But what exactly is acne? What causes it?
Acne is a very common skin condition that occurs when sebaceous glands become blocked with dead skin cells, excess oils, and bacteria. This can result in blocked hair follicles and inflammation, often developing into blackheads and whiteheads. Acne can be a combination of blackheads, whiteheads, and, in more severe cases, infected nodules.
Let's go over some of the underlying reasons why acne can occur.
What Are the Underlying Causes of Acne?
You're likely reading this article to find out if acne can be caused by stress. But there are numerous reasons why acne can show up, and they often don't act alone. There may be 2 or 3 causes for your pesky pimples and bothersome blackheads.
Genetics and hormones often play a big part. Your diet and lifestyle (including stress!) can also factor into your skin health. Your particular skin type, certain medications, or hair follicle anatomy can also lead to acne. For example, if you have dry skin or oily skin, you may also have acne-prone skin!
Bonus: What Is an Antioxidant Serum, and What Does It Do?
What About Stress?
You could be undergoing a big move, facing a promotion at work, or experiencing changes in your family life. And that mental strain can manifest in physical ways. If you're under a lot of stress, you may have noticed that your skin has been feeling the pressure.
Maybe you've noticed deepening dark circles under your eyes, more fine lines and wrinkles on your face, or the budding appearance of blemishes and pimples.
But it's not just your skin that can feel the negative effects of your stress. Studies show that chronic or unmanaged stress can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, a compromised immune system, and issues with digestion and gut health.
How Does Stress Lead to Acne?
But what about acne specifically? How does stress translate into an increase in acne breakouts?
There are several mechanisms involved in this relationship. It can be broken down into three parts:
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Increase in stress hormones. Stress causes your body to produce more androgen hormones, which then stimulate oil glands and hair follicles. This leads to an increase in oil production.
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Inflammation and oil production: When your oil glands are stimulated, they produce more oil. We've already covered that excess oils can clog pores and lead to acne and inflammation.
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A compromised skin barrier. Your skin barrier is your body's first line of defense. And when that barrier is compromised or damaged, it can make it easier for pores to clog and acne to develop. Emotional stress can have an adverse effect on your skin's antimicrobial defenses.
There have been a number of studies performed on the physical effects of stress, the development of acne, and the complex relationship between stress and acne.
For example, a study from 2020 showed that there is no set one-way relationship between stress and acne. Stress can lead to acne, just like acne can lead to stress. Often, this can create a damaging cycle. Researchers found that those who suffered from acne can experience social withdrawal and loneliness.
Treating Acne and Relieving Stress: Effective Methods
There are a few ways to treat and prevent stress acne. We'll cover a few of the most effective and natural, from skincare practices to stress-management techniques.
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Topical acne treatments: Skincare products and acne treatments are a go-to choice when battling pimples and acne breakouts. Active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid are often used, but can be harsh on sensitive skin (clean ingredients and natural botanicals may be preferential, in this case).
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Oil-free or non-comedogenic skincare: Our Sweet Black Tea and Ginger Oil-Free Moisturizer is a great place to start - oil-free, all-natural, and hydrating for your skin, ideal for mild acne to severe acne.
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Relaxation techniques: If stress triggers your acne, then you should do your due diligence to manage your stress levels! Relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can also calm your mind and rebalance your physical state. Try a refreshing beverage like jamu to unwind and relax.
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Visit your healthcare provider: A healthcare provider or mental health professional can help you manage stress and treat acne if the above methods don't provide you with suitable benefits.
Of course, this list isn't exhaustive. You can also try things like over-the-counter medications, chemical peels, light therapies, or lifestyle changes.
Keep Reading: Why Am I Still Breaking Out With a Good Skincare Routine?
People Also Ask
Is Hormonal Acne the Same as Stress Acne?
Hormonal acne and stress acne may both be acne, but they can manifest in unique ways. For example, hormonal acne will often show up around the chin and jawline, while stress acne can appear as a combination of pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.
Does Sleep Clear Acne?
Stress may not "clear" acne, but it can help! That's why it's called "beauty sleep" - when you sleep, your body and skin are able to reset and regenerate. This enhances your skin's natural ability to remove acne breakouts and heal scars.
How to Deal With the Mental Side of Acne?
Acne isn't just a physical condition - it can impact your mental health. Take time to practice self-care, seek help if needed, and realize you're not the only one. 50% of adults aged 20 to 40 have acne.
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