• There is no research that confirms stress causes Acne however we do know that stress can aggravate acne.
• Stress can spar the hormonal imbalances that cause Acne.

Stress can increase inflammation in the body

• Stress plays havoc on your immune system. When you are under stress your body secretes stress hormones including cortisol. Because stress seems to be long term hormones are released continuously. Cortisol can influence other hormones in your body, and since acne is a mainly hormonal process, it can get worse.
• The immune system overdrive is inflammation. The inflammatory response in the skin can lead to the walls of these pores breaking. The pore turns red and fills with pus and the cycle of Acne continues. You can calm your acne by keeping cortisol levels in a healthy range.

Stress can cause oil glands to go into overdrive

• Cells that produce sebum have receptors for stress hormones. At times of stress, more sebum is produced by your sebaceous glands and we know that more sebum leads to clogged pores and in turn acne.
• When we stress our adrenal glands go into overdrive. The male hormone androgens increase which leads to more sebum production.

Ways to reduce stress

You need to eliminate stress as much as you can. The following are excellent ways to manage stress:

• Exercise is a great way to battle stress. 30 minutes of exercise a day will deliver oxygen to your skin making it hard for acne bacteria to thrive. Cardiovascular activities also promote healthy circulation in the skin.
• A Good night’s sleep is a stress reducer. 8 hours a night is recommended to reduce excess cortisol and let your skin regenerate.
• Relax your mind and body with meditation. Yoga loosens up tense muscles in the body and the poses focus on the mind and breathing. Yoga is excellent at balancing the bodies hormones.
• Regular massages can relieve stress. A monthly massage is recommended to improve the vitality of the mind. Clinical studies show that even a single 1.5 hour massage can significantly lower your heart rate, cortisol levels and insulin levels.