Skin and Stress – What Effects Does Stress Have on the Skin

Who doesn’t long for peace and quiet on some days? Everyday life can often be very draining. And everything that is loud and stressful causes our blood pressure and cortisol levels to rise, which often has consequences; including for our skin. Our body then needs a break from stress and constant activity. What effects stress has on the skin, more on this in the following article: Skin and Stress – What Effects Does Stress Have on the Skin.

Relaxation, yes, but somehow there’s no end in sight

The mobile phone, the laptop, the smartwatch, or simply headphones with your favorite music. Wherever we are, our technical companions are never far away. Added to this are street noise, the television, a calendar full of appointments, no time to relax, and somehow there’s no end to the multitude of stimuli. If we are exposed to stress for a longer period, symptoms such as exhaustion, lack of concentration, and fatigue are the result, and this also affects our body and our skin. The reactions are individual, meaning some people react more sensitively to stress than others. What exactly the specific stress triggers are can also be individual. For some, an open-plan office with colleagues is enough, for others, it drives their motivation. It is crucial to find out what exactly the causes or skin-stress symptoms are, and what helps, otherwise the consequences can be severe.

The Consequences of Too Much Stress – What Effects Does Stress Have on the Skin

One appointment follows the next, and somehow there’s never enough time. In such situations, the body draws on existing energy reserves and activates its survival program to cope with the stress. These include:

• an elevated cortisol level for protection

The stress hormone cortisol is initially important for the natural functions of our body. However, physical and psychological stress can lead to an increased production of the hormone. Permanent stress therefore means a continuous production of cortisol. Precisely this overproduction can cause lasting damage. Symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, or elevated blood pressure become noticeable, among other things.

• the skin rash as a clear indicator

Weakened immune defenses and a weakened skin barrier are also side effects of increased cortisol secretion. Our skin shows emotions through blushing or fear and is simultaneously a mirror for the current level of stress. In cases of increased stress, the skin becomes more susceptible to external influences, and its natural regenerative capacity is also impaired. Especially those affected by dry and sensitive skin often suffer from the consequences. Flaky skin, redness, or even skin rashes can become visible. In the worst case, the body reacts with manifestations such as neurodermatitis.

• or pimples on the face and body

People with impure skin, in particular, then suffer from secondary effects such as stress pimples. Sebum production is stimulated by increased hormone secretion, creating a perfect breeding ground for impure skin. Pimples and blackheads, but also inflammatory skin changes such as acne, can develop on this basis and further exacerbate stress.

• but also psychological problems with often severe secondary effects

If skin problems or rashes arise due to stress, it usually increases the pressure to conform to today’s beauty ideals. Because only a clear and good-looking appearance is often considered a sign of cleanliness and good care. This often results in discomfort in one’s own skin or dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Not infrequently, this further promotes psychological problems. Especially when areas of the face are affected, i.e., visible to everyone else, this is perceived as very unpleasant; this applies to pimples, rashes, acne, or cold sores. But not only the skin promotes psychological effects; constant stress can also reduce the quality of life. A spiral of years of overwork and stress can be the cause of, among other things, depression and anxiety disorders.

Mindfulness Methods and Against Stress

Then it’s time to quickly get out of the hamster wheel and into a more balanced daily routine. Many affected people wish for this, and the rule is not to wait, but to start immediately. It doesn’t always have to be a complete overhaul of the daily schedule. A first step towards mindfulness and listening to your body can already help, and these three initial tips are part of that:

1. Reduce stress potential, i.e., slow down the daily routine and reduce stress factors. In everyday working life, this is of course not always so easy, as demands cannot be minimized so simply. But perhaps the work can also be divided differently or realized with further help. It is often assumed that everything is fine if employees say nothing, so it is important to be courageous in such situations. Above all, this step should not be perceived as an individual sign of weakness.
2. However, if the stress potential cannot be reduced, it is still possible to plan regular breaks and exercise. Spending your lunch break in the park, for example, provides fresh air, exercise at the same time, and creates new energy for further work. Perhaps it will bring a small change to daily routines, but only for the good of each individual. And for those for whom a walk is not suitable, they should take a look at the sports and relaxation offers in the company; it is often surprising what is offered here.
3. Because only a relaxed mind and body can function healthily. This also applies to the often-present mental hamster wheel. If tasks are still running through your head in the evening, sleep is out of the question. Yet, a sufficient and healthy sleep rhythm is crucial for both mental and physical health.
4. An evening ritual before falling asleep can also help reduce stress. Whether it’s a facial massage or a regular relaxing skincare routine in the evening. Gentle skincare products should always be used to avoid further irritating or burdening the skin.

Further information and tips from our experts on the topic of skin stress symptoms can be found here in the Skin Journal.

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