Stress can wreak havoc on many aspects of our lives, and our is no exception. One of the most common manifestations is stress acne. Unlike blackheads or hormonal acne, stress acne is closely tied to our mental health, making it particularly tricky to treat.
To help you navigate this concern, we consulted three dermatologists to provide a comprehensive guide on tackling the concern. From identifying symptoms to exploring available treatments, here’s everything you need to know to manage stress-induced breakouts—straight from the . As New York City-based board-certified dermatologist , MD, describes it, stress acne is a type of acne that is worsened by, you guessed it, stress.
Henry explains that chronic can trigger a hormone called Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). CRH stimulates the production of sebum as a response to stress which can lead to breakouts. She explains that CRH also contains proteins that contribute to inflammation.
Stress acne can occur anywhere on the body and , but she says they are more commonly found on the forehead, nose, chin, and larger areas of the body with a higher concentration of oil glands such as the chest, back, and upper arms. And while anyone, regardless of , can get stress acne, she says it is most common in those who are already prone to breakouts. According to , MD, board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology, stress acne doesn’t necessarily look any different from other types of acne you might get.
What differentiates it.
