
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…
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.
The lazy claim that acne is simply a result of stress unfairly turns a common skin disease into a personal failing. The opposite claim, that relaxation alone will clear it, is also unsupported. Stress control may help, but treatment must address hormones, medicines, skin care and behaviour where relevant. A useful test is whether consistent medical care, rather than stress reduction alone, improves breakouts over time.
Source: thehindu.com
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