Psychodermatology - Acne and Stress Connection
You’ve probably wondered about the link between breakouts and stress.Doesn’t it always seem like you get more breakouts when you’re really stressed out?There is a real reason behind it.Cortisol, a stress hormone, triggers the increased production of sebum which creates more oily skin. The excessive sebum can cause more breakouts: pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts in acne prone skin. So how do you learn how to relax and get your stress levels and skin under control?Many long-term skin conditions can benefit from psychodermatology.
Scientists are becoming more interested in the link between pyschology and skin. A relatively new term has been coined, “psychodermatology”. While this isn’t an official medical field, it studies the link between body and mind, and in particular, the effects of the mind and stress levels and impacts on your skin. “A psychodermatologic disorder is a condition that involves an interaction between the mind and the skin,” says American Family Physician Journal.
We are aware that stress can show up in our skin.So what can you do about it?Many of the components used in psychodermatology are stress reduction techniques and psychotherapy. There is even a book about it, Skin Deep: A Mind/Body Program for Healthy Skin.Resolving root issues that are causing stress is one of the goals of the book.The book was authored by Grossbart and Sherman, a clinical psychologist and medical science writer, respectively. The book explores the mind and body link, and offers several techniques that include relaxation, imaging, hypnosis, and psychotherapy to help address root causes on long-term skin problems.
Psychodermatology treatment can help many skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. If you don’t want to see a trained psychodermatologist, or get the book, you can do your own experiment. Start taking yoga classes, or try some meditation tapes or DVDs. Incorporate relaxation techniques into our daily routine, and see if it has a positive effect on your skin.Managing stress is a good goal for both your body and your mind, and you are likely to feel better.
The next time you know a stressful event is coming, like a big exam, wedding, or job interview, don’t sit back and wait in fear for another massive breakout–do something about it.If you can learn how to relax and deal with stress, you could potentially improve your skin.
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