Everyone knows that stress can be very damaging to the body’s health and well being. However, most people don’t realize how damaging it can be to the body’s largest organ, the skin.

Stress can cause skin to appear pale, dull, and lifeless. Hormones produced by stress can also stimulate sebaceous glands and cause them to produce excess oil. This extra oil tends to clog pores/hair follicles and produces bacteria and inflammation. Blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples then form on the skin as a result.

A recent study proved that increases in acne severity were directly related to increases in stress. Performed by the Department of Dermatology at Stanford University’s School of Medicine, the study focused on 22 students who suffered from varying degrees of acne. It was found that during test times, the severity of the students’ acne increased. The findings were very interesting, because they proved that emotional stress does influence acne.

The researchers who conducted the study determined that adrenal androgens and glucocorticoids are released into the body during times of emotional stress. These two hormones are both known to cause and worsen acne, by stimulating sebaceous glands.

By proving the connection between acne and stress, researchers helped to establish yet another way to treat acne besides topical medication: stress reduction.

Stress comes in many different forms and can be caused by a miserable situation or simply by life’s little demands. Fortunately, there are many different ways to treat and reduce the stress in our lives.

For example, a change in the environment can produce a relaxing experience that will help to calm the acne-producing hormones caused by stress. A good way to change everyday environment is through the use of candles or ambient lighting, aromatherapy, soothing music, and tranquil décor. A relaxing soak in a tub that contains a favorite bath oil or scent can also bring temporary relief.

Daily exercise and fresh air are other stress combatants that can be easily incorporated into almost anyone’s life. Meditation, yoga, and long walks can help free the mind and relax the body. Another helpful technique is massage, which stimulates the skin and revitalizes muscles.

Though stress is caused by many different factors, there are universal treatments, such as those shown above, which can help. If you experience an increase in acne due to stress, treat your skin, but also make sure that you get to the heart of the problem and treat that as well.

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