Stress Causes Many Skin Problems

With the lack of jobs, incessant bills, and the difficult future we seem to be heading toward as a society, stress is an inevitable part of modern day life. It affects us in many deleterious ways. One of the most common examples that stress can have on your body is when it shows up on your skin.

Stress effects on the skin can manifest in the following ways: 

  • Acne, eczema, and psoriasis, due to heightened levels of the stress hormone cortisol
  • Increased scarring from feeling the need to pick, pull, and scratch your skin
  • Cold sores and canker sores may become more evident
  • Hair loss from abnormal hair issues that encourage hair loss
  • Hives, rashes, and other skin inflammations
  • Itchy skin from the body’s decreased ability to attract and retain moisture
  • Damaged skin cells can cause an increase in fine lines

Prevention and treatment

Keeping your skin properly hydrated is an important part of preventing many of these conditions. Getting enough sleep, drinking lots of water to rehydrate your skin, eating balanced and healthy meals and exercising regularly are all vital to your skin’s health. Practicing meditation techniques can also reduce stress and help your overall emotional intelligence. By taking steps to reduce stress, many of these issues may resolve without professional guidance.

If you are suffering from persistent skin, hair, and nail conditions you should consult with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss individualized diagnoses and treatments. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.