How stress can affect our skin negatively...

Experts advise on how to cope if pandemic worries have impacted your complexion.

Have you noticed your skin has suffered in the past year, with an increase in acne, deepening wrinkles or exacerbated existing conditions? Pandemic stress might be to blame. ‘Multiple lockdowns combined with the stresses of working from home and homeschooling has been tough on most people’s mental health,’ says dermatology nurse consultant Paula Oliver.

Plus, if you already have complexion issues, they can – in turn – have an impact on your mental health.

‘People with skin conditions are at higher risk of developing poor psychological health, meaning they are more likely to feel embarrassed, low, anxious, have body image issues or feel socially isolated. These feelings can then impact their skin and it can turn into a vicious cycle.’ Why does stress impact our skin?

‘The brain has a stressactivated pathway that causes the release of various chemicals and hormones that drive inflammation both in the body and the skin,’ says consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. ‘Feelings of emotional distress lead to the release of a stress hormone (cortisol), which is known to affect the immune system.’

Our experts agree that treating the cause, not the symptoms, is the best approach, which is why you should start by trying to reduce the causes of stress in your life.

Dr Ahmed says: ‘Often, very simple changes can make big differences in patients’ lives.

‘So, it’s important to consider the amount of sleep people are getting, their daily fluid intake, food choices, and amount of time spent exercising.’

Oliver recommends sticking to ‘a healthy, balanced diet, which is full of rich, leafy greens, good fats and high fibre foods.

Drinking at least two litres of water a day can also help hydrate the skin, preventing breakouts.’