Acne and stress

Robert Kokoska

Believe it or not, stress can actually be your cause for acne. A
study at a German university has proven the stress theory.
Another study found that acne worsened in students that were
under stress from exams. They discovered that when you are under
stress, your body releases a chemical called CRH
(corticotropin-releasing hormone.)

During times of stress, CRH is released from the hypothalamus to
create a hormone called cortisol that is responsible for
creating enough energy for the brain amongst other things.

The problem with CRH is that it also causes the oil glands in
the skin to produce more oil (sembum). When there is excess oil
in the skin, the pores are prone to getting clogged.

When the oil is combined with bacteria, dirt, dead skin cells,
and cell waste it creates the condition of acne.

Dr Jerome Litt, A German dermatologist, believes stress also
increases production of androgens. Androgens are the male growth
hormone that regulate skin oil production and is produced in
large quantities during puberty which is why the most severe
acne sufferers are teenagers.

Any type of stress can cause the above problems. Stress is
defined as mental or physical tension that results from
physical, emotional, or chemical causes. Things such as worry,
anxiety, fear and anger are all different types of stress and
should be avoided where possible.

There are many great ways to reduce and relieve stress. One of
the easiest and most effective ways is through exercise.

When you exercise, your body begins to release chemicals called
endorphins. Endorphines make you 'feel good' as they are a
natural pain-killer and are very effective in combating stress.

Even simple laughter is known to release endorphins into the
body. There have been studies that have shown that the body also
releases at least 4 hormones that are all related to stress.

Diet is also important for emotional and psychological
well-being which is important for avoiding stress. Stress arises
when you are out-of-sorts and depressed. When you are happy you
are less likely to be bothered or stressed out by certain
happenings.

Vitamins are required by the body when under stress. Vitamin B
is essential for mental health and deficiencies can lead to
depression, lack of concentration and tiredness, all perfect
conditions for stress from normal everyday problems.

Other practices such as meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, massage,
use of herbs, incense, aromatherapy and bath salts are also
excellent ways to reduce stress and all help you to relax.

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