An important appointment is coming up, the to-do list is getting longer, and the next morning, you’re guaranteed to find a new pimple right in the most noticeable spot. Many people recognize this pattern from their own experience, and it’s actually no coincidence: the skin and the nervous system are closely interconnected.
Stress is therefore not just a feeling in the mind, but a measurable factor that can affect the appearance of the skin through various mechanisms—ranging from breakouts to an overall duller complexion.
6 Ways Stress Affects Your Skin
Cortisol stimulates sebum production. The stress hormone cortisol can increase the activity of the sebaceous glands, which raises the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.
The skin barrier is sensitive to chronic stress. Prolonged stress can weaken the protective function of the outermost layer of the skin, making it easier for moisture to escape.
Blood flow changes under stress. In stressful situations, the body directs more blood to the muscles and organs—which can make the skin appear temporarily paler or more sallow.
Existing skin concerns may become more pronounced. People who are already prone to breakouts or redness often notice these issues becoming more severe during stressful periods.
Facial expressions leave their mark. Raised eyebrows, narrowed eyes, or a clenched jaw occur more frequently during stressful periods and can become a permanent part of one's facial expressions over time.
Sleep suffers as a result—and so does your skin. Stress often makes it harder to fall asleep, and poor sleep also affects your skin's ability to regenerate and your complexion.
What Really Helps with Stress-Induced Skin Problems
Short breaks for movement, mindful breathing exercises, or set times for rest throughout the day can help keep overall cortisol levels lower in everyday life. If you’d like to give your skin, hair, and nails an extra boost from the inside, Glanz Gefühl offers a daily supplement in capsule form: It can help you consciously support your skin, hair, and nails*—perfect for anyone who wants to make it a regular part of their routine, no matter how stressful the day may be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some people get pimples especially often when they're stressed?
This depends, among other things, on individual sebaceous gland activity—in some people, the sebaceous glands are more sensitive to stress-induced cortisol release than in others. In addition to genetic predisposition, it’s worth focusing on the basics: getting enough sleep and taking breaks to move around. Regardless of periods of stress, Glanz Gefühl provides you with a daily dose of zinc, which helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails.
How closely are lack of sleep and skin condition related?
Very closely: Sleep is a key recovery phase for the skin, which is why poor sleep—in addition to stress itself—can have a negative effect on your complexion. And since sleep rarely comes on command, it’s worth establishing a consistent daily routine. Taking two Glanz Gefühl capsules with breakfast takes less than ten seconds and will soon become as natural as the coffee you have afterward.
*Zinc helps maintain normal skin, hair, and nails.
