Stress, depression and acne [how they are interconnected] – the opinion of dermatologists

In addition to stress, acne can also have profound psychological effects and can lead to a loss of self-confidence and self-esteem. Since it is believed that some prescription acne medications can cause depression, as a first step towards clear skin, consult a specialist to determine a treatment and skin care strategy.

Acne due to stress: how it works

Acne can be caused by stress.

1. Research, in particular, shows that students acne condition worsens during periods of increased stress, namely, during the exam session.
2. During periods of stress, our body produces an excess amount of hormones that unnecessarily stimulate the sebaceous glandswhich can lead to pimples/acne. Other factors may also be involved: doctors are still not entirely sure what effect stress can produce. It’s important to know what to do with it..

How to deal with acne caused by stress

If stress is one of the acne triggers, a two-pronged approach is needed.

• MANAGE YOUR STRESS LEVEL.

Pimples can be caused by anxiety and worry, so level reduction anxiety will mitigate the “stress effect”. You can try many simple relaxation techniques. Alternatively, pass course in meditation or the art of attention management (mindfulness)to clear your mind. Even daily exercise or yoga can be a great way to relieve stress.

• TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN PROPERLY.

Skin condition may improve with reduced stress levels, but  don’t forget about acne treatment. If the skin problem persists, consult a dermatologist to find the right treatment for you.

Can acne cause depression?

In short – yes, acne can cause various psychological problems, including depression. A recent online survey conducted by the British Skin Foundation (BSF) found that the main psychological outcome in acne sufferers is lack of self-confidence (70% of respondents), while more than half said they hard to make friends because of the condition of their skin. It also becomes clear from the BSF survey that acne can cause social anxiety and shyness, as well as lead to depression and more severe consequences.

acne and depression

According to a study published by BSF (2012), the psychological impact of acne can be extremely severe and often overlooked, leaving acne sufferers feeling alone and rejected. “Patients with acne and many other skin problems are often very worried about the condition of their skin, as it affects their self-confidence and self-esteem in many different ways.BSF spokesman Dr. Bev Shergill said in a press release. “The psychological consequences of skin disease are too often underestimated, and we hope that this study will help draw attention to this issue.”

Finding the right treatment is the first step to clear skin and a more positive mindset.

How acne causes depression: the opinion of dermatologists

We asked experts how the condition of the skin affects a person’s psychological well-being.

“Acne tends to strike in adolescencejust when people most vulnerable. It is during the teenage years that we discover who we are and make connections with our peers – acne can interfere with this process. This condition is not dangerous, but teenagers may feel uncomfortable in their own skin. Both self-esteem and self-respect can suffer». 

Philippe Beaulieu, dermatologist

“Very often I see at the reception how acne patients hide their faces. Skin diseases, including acne, are visible diseases for the patient and others. People begin to be embarrassed to show their faces, communicate less and try to isolate themselves from society, neurosis and depression develop. Sometimes we take pictures of the patient in the process of treatmentand I see how facial expression changes at the beginning and end as a smile appears. Don’t underestimate this issue. and start acne treatment as early as possible.

Alexander Prokofiev, dermatovenereologist

Indeed, many studies show that acne sufferers experience symptoms. anxiety and depressionthey have low self-esteem. All this can eventually affect performance at work or school performance.

Interestingly, the the psychological consequences of acne are not proportional to the severity the disease itself.

Acne and depression medications

DO THEY CAUSE DEPRESSION?

The truth is that doctors are not sure if this link really exists, but obviously, if the patient already has mental health problems, it is worth monitoring his condition.

If you develop depression while taking an acne medication, talk to your doctor about treatments for depression, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) or the advisability of connecting antidepressants.