Periods of extreme mental stress, like the one we are currently experiencing during the war, affect our body in many ways, and among them, surprisingly yet very understandably, also the skin. If you have noticed a sudden outbreak of acne or pimples that were not there before, you are definitely not alone. This is a very common situation during periods of anxiety and ongoing mental stress.
How Does Stress Cause Acne?
The biological process is quite simple, yet powerful: When we are under pressure, the body releases high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. An increase in cortisol levels signals the sebaceous glands in the skin to increase their activity. The result is increased production of sebum (oil), which clogs the pores and leads to outbreaks of pimples and inflammation.
The good news is that it is possible to try to moderate this effect through changes in lifestyle. Here are some important highlights:
What Can Be Done (And What Should Be Stopped)
To help the skin recover from stress, it is advisable to adopt a supportive lifestyle routine:
1. Maintain Sleep Quality
Our body recovers and balances itself during sleep. Try to make sure you get at least 7 hours of sleep at night and try to go to sleep relatively early, so that even if the sirens arrive in the middle of the night, you will still manage to accumulate enough hours of sleep. Adequate sleep is essential for regulating the hormonal systems in the body.
2. Mindful Nutrition (Reduce “Junk”)
During times of stress, human nature is to turn to “comfort food,” which is usually fast food rich in sugars and fats. It is important to understand that high consumption of sugars and fried foods may worsen acne. Try to reduce them as much as possible and prefer a more balanced diet. Snack when you feel like it, but healthier.
3. Consider Reducing Dairy Products
There are studies indicating that dairy products may worsen acne in certain people. If you feel that the situation is worsening, it is worth trying to reduce or remove dairy products from the menu and see if there is an improvement in the condition of the skin.
4. Move The Body
Physical activity is a wonderful way to reduce stress. Even a short workout of 10–15 minutes a day can help lower stress levels, improve blood circulation and release “good” hormones that improve mood. It is good for the soul, and accordingly, also good for the skin.
Maintaining Hygiene, Also Digitally
5. Digital Hygiene
Digital hygiene is the cleaning of devices that come into contact with our face, a topic that becomes especially critical now when stress and the need to stay updated with the news significantly increase smartphone usage time. The device becomes a breeding ground for bacteria that are transferred directly to the skin with every call or touch, which worsens inflammatory acne outbreaks.
Therefore, make sure to clean the screen daily, prefer earphones instead of pressing the phone against the cheek, and try to be aware of unintentional contact of the hands with the face while scrolling.
6. Skincare And Hygiene Routine
Do not give up on your skincare routine even when it is difficult. Even 5 minutes a day will provide a good feeling and balance for the skin. It is very important:
• Maintain hygiene: Make sure to clean the facial skin thoroughly on a regular basis.
• Nourish and moisturize: Skin that suffers from stress needs moisture. Make sure to use quality products that maintain skin moisture and prevent water loss, this way you will help it recover from the inflammation.
In conclusion: Our mental state is directly reflected on our skin. Take a moment for yourselves, try to listen to the needs of the body, and try to restore for yourselves a sense of a healthy routine, your skin will thank you for it.
Yaffa Maximov is the former chairwoman of the Cosmeticians’ Organization in Israel, the developer of the YMAX method for facial hair removal, and the owner of the Beauty-Tech clinic network for advanced cosmetics, body treatments, anti-aging, and hair removal.