An increase in stress hormones can create all sorts of changes. Worsened acne can be one, as well as weight gain and an increase in blood pressure. Stress increases the amount of oil your skin secretes, which causes clogged pores, which we all know results in acne.
Even with no research evidence, it’s generally easy to tell that stress can worsen acne. After a stressful day, our skin suffers.
It is necessary to control your stress, not just to improve the overall condition of your skin but to improve your overall well being.
Possible Causes of stress
- Anxiety about an event
- Feeling Overwhelmed
- Smoking/Alcohol/Caffeine
- A Lack of Sleep
- General emotional issues
- Large Workload
- A lifestyle that is too hectic
These are all factors that could cause you to be stressed. It might also be something as trivial as a long queue that could cause you to become stressed. Some people are just not as good at managing stress as others.
If you find that your acne breakouts are related to particular events such as examinations, moving to a new place or any sort of significant event, then it’s likely that your breakouts are stress related, or at least effected by how stressed you are.
So we know that stress may increase the oiliness of your skin and worsen your acne, but how could we minimize this stress?
Well it’s easier said than done, but the first thing you need to do is recognize that you're stressed. This is the most crucial part in dealing the issue. Usually, by realizing that you're stressed, and reminding yourself to be positive can minimize your stress levels. If you are feeling tense, then you should try to relax your body. If your body is relaxed, then it will help your mind relax too.
Taking a break is also one easy change that might help minimize stress levels. Life is stressful but 10 minutes is all it will take to make the difference. Make sure you give yourself 5 minutes of “me time” each and every day. You could just lay in bed, sit in your car or go for a walk.
Exercise can also help with stress. Go for a run or do some type of exercise two or three times as week and you will feel much better for it.
Cutting down on the amount of caffeine you drink can also help with stress. Many people now rely on caffeine to function throughout the day. Consuming too much caffeine can increase your stress levels. Try to progressively reduce the amount you consume. You could even think of giving it up entirely. Drinking alcohol and smoking also result in higher stress levels in the long-term.
You could also try talking about your concerns to reduce your stress levels. Sometimes, talking or writing about your problems is all it takes.
