APRIL IS STRESS AWARENESS MONTH
AND I DON'T NEED A CALENDAR TO TELL ME HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE FEELING IT...
In clinic, I see it all of the time; a sudden flare up of acne, apatch of eczema that won’t settle, rosacea that comes out of nowhere. And one of the most common culprits behind these flare-ups?
STRESS AS A TRIGGER FOR SKIN CONCERNS
We talk a lot about ingredients and treatments, but one of the biggest triggers for skin conditions is emotional. Stress can quite literally show up on your skin – and it can be the spark that sets off something deeper, particularly in conditions like:
Acne: Stress increases cortisol, which ramps up oil production. More oil = more breakouts.
Eczema: Your skin barrier weakens when you’re stressed, which can lead to dryness, itching and inflammation.
Rosacea: A stress response can dilate your blood vessels, leading to flushing and flare-ups.
Psoriasis: Chronic stress can trigger the immune system into overdrive, speeding up skin cell turnover.
If you’ve ever had a flare during a particularly busy or emotional time, you’re not imagining it. We see it in clinic again and again — the connection is very real.
Stress is a part of life – but learning how to manage it can make a huge difference to your skin (and your overall health). A few things I recommend regularly:
1. GET MOVING
Regular exercise helps burn off stress hormones and boosts mood.
2.MIND YOUR SLEEP
Quality sleep gives your skin (and brain) time to repair and reset.
3. FIND YOUR THING
Whether it’s deep breathing, yoga, journaling or just a walk in nature, building calming habits into your day is key.
4. SUPPORT YOUR SKIN
If you’re going through a stressful time, simplify your routine and stick to products that strengthen your skin barrier.
5. TALK TO SOMEONE
Whether it’s a therapist, a friend, or your skincare professional – you don’t have to manage everything alone
We often talk about treating skin from the outside in, but stress reminds us how important it is to also work from the inside out. Your skin is a reflection of your overall wellbeing – so looking after your stress levels is just as important as what you’re applying topically.
If your skin is flaring and you suspect stress might be playing a part, don’t ignore it. The good news is: with the right tools and support, it is possible to break the cycle.
