Can stress trigger acne, eczema or psoriasis?
HLN, 21 May 2024
Dr Griet Voet explains in HLN how stress and mental well-being affect skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Stress, anxiety and fatigue leave their mark on the skin. In HLN, Dr Griet Voet explains psychodermatology: the field that studies the interaction between the skin and mental well-being.
According to her, psoriasis and eczema in particular are prone to flare-ups during busy periods, but so are seborrhoeic dermatitis, acne, rosacea, prurigo nodularis and certain forms of hair loss. Conversely, a visible skin condition can itself cause a lot of stress. Sometimes a skin problem is also an expression of a psychological disorder, such as compulsive scratching or hair pulling.
Most conditions can be treated well dermatologically, although with a lot of stress a more intensive approach or psychological support is sometimes needed.
Key advice
Start targeted treatment and also tackle the sources of stress.
In times of severe stress, treatment may need to be adjusted or stepped up.
Psychological support alongside dermatological care sometimes helps.
“The skin and our mental well-being are very often connected.” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about General dermatology at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.