Stress is a problem many people encounter in modern life. Not only affecting the spirit and overall health, prolonged stress can also directly affect the skin and accelerate the aging process.
According to Dr. Deepashree R, a dermatologist at KIMS Hospital in Bengaluru (India), chronic stress can accelerate skin aging through the increase in the hormone cortisol in the body.
Experts say that when the body is constantly under pressure, increased cortisol levels will break down collagen and elastin, two important components that help the skin maintain firmness and elasticity. Over time, this can cause wrinkles, crow's feet and sagging prematurely.
In addition to affecting the skin structure, stress can also weaken the skin's natural protective barrier. When this barrier is damaged, the skin easily becomes dry, dull, sensitive and prone to acne.
Dr. Deepashree said that stress can also make skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, or some autoimmune skin diseases worse. Part of the cause comes from increased inflammatory reactions in the body when under prolonged pressure.
In addition, stress often comes with difficulty sleeping or lack of sleep. This affects the skin's recovery and regeneration process at night, making the skin more prone to loss of vitality and faster aging.
A study published in 2024 in the journal Brain, Behaviour and Immunity also showed that psychological stress can contribute to the development or worsening of many dermatological diseases.
According to research, when the body falls into a state of stress, the brain will activate the release of stress hormones and inflammatory substances. These reactions weaken the skin's protective barrier and make it difficult for the skin to resist harmful agents from the environment.
Researchers also found that prolonged stress can create a vicious cycle in which dermatitis makes patients more anxious and continued stress makes skin symptoms flare up more strongly.
To limit the impact of stress on the skin, experts recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to mental health care.
Some recommended measures include regular exercise, getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation methods such as meditation or mindfulness.
In addition, using moisturizer, sunscreen and maintaining appropriate skin care routines can also help protect the skin from the effects of stress and the environment.
Experts believe that stress management is not only necessary for mental health but also plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and slowing down the aging process.
