Stress can significantly impact our well-being, and our skin is often a reflection of this. Stress acne is a common skin issue that arises due to the body’s response to stress. While anyone can experience stress acne, it’s particularly prevalent in those who are already prone to breakouts.
Stress acne is triggered by the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in response to stress. CRH stimulates sebum production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. It also contains proteins that contribute to inflammation. While stress acne can appear anywhere on the body, it’s more common on the forehead, nose, chin, chest, back, and upper arms.
Differentiating stress acne from other types can be challenging. However, it tends to appear in clusters, rapidly and acutely, often causing painful, red, and inflamed pimples.
Stress acne is often mistaken for hormonal acne, but they are distinct. Hormonal acne is linked to menstrual cycles and appears predominantly around the jawline and chin. Stress acne, on the other hand, can manifest as a combination of whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed pimples.
Treating stress acne involves a multi-pronged approach. Topical treatments with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, and retinoids can help clear pores, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria. Recommended products include CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser and La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.I. Breakout Corrector. Non-comedogenic moisturizers like Kiehl’s Moisturiser for Acne Prone Skin with Salicylic Acid can also help prevent clogged pores.
For more severe cases or persistent breakouts, dermatologists recommend prescription treatments such as hormonal birth control, oral antibiotics, tetracycline, spironolactone, and isotretinoin.
In-clinic treatments like chemical peels, which remove dead skin cells, can be effective for treating stress acne. Laser treatments such as AviClear and Aerolase are specifically designed to combat active acne. Other lasers, including Morpheus8, Infini, Clear & Brilliant, PicoSure, and Exion, can improve overall complexion and reduce pore size, redness, and uneven skin tone. It’s crucial to remember that these treatments are aggressive and may require multiple sessions to achieve desired results.
Experts emphasize that preventing stress acne is crucial. This involves managing stress levels effectively. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness meditation, vigorous exercise, walking, journaling, listening to music, drawing, and massage can significantly help.
Improving overall mental health through adequate sleep and deep breathing exercises is also essential. Ultimately, managing stress effectively and incorporating a healthy lifestyle is key to preventing and minimizing the impact of stress acne.
