Does Stress Cause Acne? What Science Says

You've probably noticed it yourself: during stressful periods like exams, work deadlines, or personal challenges, your skin seems to break out more. But does stress actually cause acne, or is something else going on? Research shows that while stress doesn't directly cause acne, it can significantly worsen existing breakouts and trigger new flare-ups.

Understanding the connection between stress and acne can help you manage breakouts more effectively and break the frustrating cycle of stress-related skin problems.

The Stress-Acne Connection

Stress itself doesn't create acne, but if you already have acne-prone skin, stress can make acne more severe. A study of college students found that acne flare-ups increased during exam periods compared to low-stress times, with acne severity directly correlating to stress levels.

The link between stress and breakouts is real and backed by science. Research shows that an increase in stress severity strongly correlates with an increase in acne severity. But to understand why this happens, you need to know how stress affects your body.

How Stress Triggers Breakouts

When you're under stress, your body responds by producing more hormones, particularly cortisol and androgens. These hormones have a direct impact on your skin in several ways.

Increased Oil Production

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, when your body is stressed, it produces more androgens that stimulate the oil glands and hair follicles in your skin. As cortisol levels rise, your body also produces more sebum, the oily substance that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Slower Healing

Research has found that wounds, including acne lesions, heal much slower when a person is under stress. This means pimples stick around longer and are more likely to become inflamed or infected, making them worse.

Increased Inflammation

Stress triggers the release of inflammatory substances in your body. These inflammatory factors can worsen existing acne and make your skin more reactive, leading to redder, more painful breakouts.

Managing Stress to Reduce Breakouts

The good news is that managing stress can help improve your acne. Research shows that patients who received biofeedback training, relaxation training, and stress reduction techniques showed improvement in their acne compared to control groups.

Here are evidence-based strategies to help manage stress-related acne:

• Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga for 10-15 minutes daily

• Exercise regularly through cardio, strength training, or any physical activity you enjoy

• Get adequate sleep, as poor sleep increases stress and worsens skin health

• Maintain your regular skincare routine even during stressful periods

• Consider professional support from a therapist or counselor for chronic stress

• Avoid stress-related habits that worsen acne, like touching your face or skipping skincare

When to See a Dermatologist

While stress management can help, it's not a complete solution for acne. See a dermatologist if:

• Your acne is severe or getting worse despite home care

• Breakouts are leaving scars or dark marks

• Over-the-counter treatments haven't helped after 6-8 weeks

• Acne is significantly affecting your emotional well-being

• You experience sudden acne flare-ups as an adult

A dermatologist can provide prescription treatments that target both the hormonal and inflammatory aspects of stress-related acne.

The Bottom Line

Stress doesn't cause acne on its own, but it can make existing acne worse by increasing oil production, slowing healing, and promoting inflammation. The connection between your stress levels and your skin is real and backed by research.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate sleep can help reduce breakouts. However, stress management should complement, not replace, proper skincare and professional dermatological care when needed. By addressing both your stress levels and your skin health, you can break the cycle and achieve clearer skin.