# Stress Can Worsen Acne, But Rarely Causes It Alone 2026-08-07T01:41:20+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Stress can worsen acne, but dermatologists caution that it is rarely the sole cause, The Hindu reports. Stress hormones such as cortisol may increase oil production, inflammation and changes in the skin’s immune response. Acne affects about 9.4% of the global population and is especially common among people aged 12 to 25. Poor sleep, high-glycaemic foods, stopping medication, heavy cosmetics and picking the skin can also trigger flare-ups during stressful periods. Hormonal, genetic, metabolic and environmental factors must be considered. Doctors recommend sleep, exercise and stress reduction alongside evidence-based treatment, not as a replacement for medical care. Acne can itself worsen anxiety and distress. ## Coverage - thehindu.com Tags: acne, dermatology, skin health, stress Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/stress-can-worsen-acne-but-rarely-causes-it-alone/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/stress-can-worsen-acne-but-rarely-causes-it-alone/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.