When a pile of unfinished work or homework stresses you out, you suddenly notice a pimple appearing on your face or an itchy rash on your neck. Can stress cause these skin disorders?
One of the effects of stress on the skin is an increase in the production of the hormone cortisol. Increased production of this hormone will make the skin more oily, so the skin is prone to breakouts and various disorders.
In addition, when you are stressed, you may also forget to take care of your skin, such as washing your face or using a moisturizer. This will make the skin condition worse.
Skin Problems That Usually Appear swhen stressed
The following are some skin problems that often arise due to stress:
1. Acne
Stress can cause increased levels of the hormone cortisol, which can trigger oil production in the skin. In addition to excess oil production, people often forget to take care of their skin when they are under stress. Both of these things can trigger the appearance of acne.
2. Hives
Hives is one of the immune reactions to substances that trigger allergies (allergens). When stressed, the body releases chemicals neuropeptide and neurotransmitter. These chemicals can change the body's response to exposure to allergens, so the skin will become more sensitive and prone to allergies in the form of hives.
3. Eczema
Eczema, such as atopic eczema and discoid eczema, will cause the sufferer's skin to be red, itchy, scaly, and thickened. Although the exact cause of atopic eczema is not known, stress is known to trigger inflammation of the skin which then causes atopic eczema.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin disorder associated with the immune system. Psoriasis is characterized by red patches on the skin that are scaly and itchy. One of the triggers is stress.
In addition to triggering, stress can also aggravate psoriasis. Some people have a habit of scratching their skin when they are stressed, even though they don't actually feel itchy. This habit can make complaints on the skin due to psoriasis become worse.
In addition to some of the conditions above, long-term stress can make skin wrinkle faster, lose elasticity, and dull. In some people, stress can also trigger the appearance of rosacea.
How to Overcome the Effects of Stress pno skin
There are several ways that can be done to overcome the effects of stress on the skin, namely:
1. Keep your skin clean and healthy
Even if you are under stress, don't forget to clean and take care of your skin. Clean your face 2 times a day and use a moisturizer or sunscreen to keep your skin healthy.
2. Eat nutritious food
During times of stress, appetite and desire to snack will usually increase. Be careful, eating unhealthy foods, such as sweet or oily foods, will worsen your skin condition. Choose nutritious food when you want snack, for example popcorn homemade, nut, or vegetable and fruit salads.
3. Sufficient sleep needs
Adequate sleep is useful for overcoming the effects of stress on the skin. While sleeping, the body will repair damaged body tissues, including skin tissue. The ideal length of a night's sleep is 8 hours.
4. Practice relaxation and meditation techniques
Although it looks simple, doing relaxation and meditation techniques can deal with stress. you know. This of course will also relieve the effects of stress on the skin, such as eczema and psoriasis.
5. Apply ointment or cream
If necessary, you can use an ointment or cream to treat your skin problem. For example, using a cream containing retinoids to treat psoriasis, or creams containing glycerin to treat eczema. But before using the ointment, you should consult a dermatologist first, yes.
When under stress, several skin problems can occur. Do some of the ways above to solve it. But if skin problems due to stress have really interfered with your activities, don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist.
