4 Skin Disorders Caused by High Stress ??

A calm mind is the biggest luxury we can be blessed with. This is not to say only a few are blessed with this gift -- rather it is a gift we can all partake in. A calm mind is like a garden with flowers - one that we must cultivate through the seeds of faith, relaxation, meditation, and joy. But sometimes when we falter in these habits or stay oblivious to them for a long time they culminate into a catastrophic event.

In this edition of Heal Thyself by Shevaun Pimenta, I want to bring you a quick overview of 4 skin disorders caused by high stress:

Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions characterized by the formation of comedones (clogged pores), papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts on the skin. While there are many causes to it, including hormones, stress can exacerbate acne through these mechanisms:

• Stress triggers the release of the hormones: cortisol and androgens, which stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil (sebum). Excess sebum can clog pores and contribute to acne formation.
• Stress-induced inflammation worsens existing acne lesions and promotes the development of new ones.
• Inflammatory mediators released in response to stress, such as cytokines and neuropeptides, can activate immune cells in the skin and aggravate acne.
• Chronic stress impairs the skin's ability to repair itself, leading to delayed wound healing and prolonged recovery from acne lesions.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, red, and inflamed patches of skin.

• Stress can disrupt the balance of immune cells and inflammatory mediators in the skin, leading to increased inflammation and exacerbation of eczema symptoms.
• It also compromises the integrity of the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants, allergens, and microbial invasion. This can trigger or worsen eczema flare-ups.
• Stress-induced psychological factors, such as anxiety and depression, can intensify the itch sensation associated with eczema. Excessive scratching can further damage the skin barrier and exacerbate inflammation, leading to a vicious cycle of itching and scratching.

Psoriasis

Stress drives Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, red, scaly plaques through the following mechanisms:

• As we've seen before stress triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activates immune cells involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, such as T cells and dendritic cells. This immune activation contributes to the inflammation and abnormal keratinocyte proliferation seen in psoriatic lesions.
• Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (see my infographic explaining this mechanism) and the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can modulate immune function and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.
• Chronic stress disrupts the balance of microorganisms on the skin, known as the skin microbiome. Dysbiosis of the skin microbiome may contribute to psoriasis flares by promoting inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction.

And lastly,

Hives (Urticaria)

As we all know, Hives are raised, red welts on the skin that are often accompanied by itching or burning sensations.

• Stress can stimulate the release of mast cell mediators such as histamine, which can induce vasodilation and increase vascular permeability, leading to the formation of hives.
• Stress activates the release of neuropeptides and neurotransmitters that can promote inflammation and contribute to the development of hives.
• Additionally, stress-induced changes in the nervous system can sensitize mast cells to release histamine in response to various triggers.

Heal Thyself

Ready to reclaim your skin health from stress-induced skin conditions?

As a functional nutritionist, I offer personalized guidance to address the root causes of your concerns. Through targeted nutrition, stress management, and gut health support, we will work together to restore balance to your body.

With strategic supplementation, lifestyle adjustments, and collaborative care, I'm here to help you achieve lasting results and unlock your natural beauty together!

PS: I am working with a limited number of clients only, please send me a DM if you would like to chat or avail of a consultation.

Disclaimer: While I am a licensed functional nutritionist, the information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual health needs vary, and it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

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