Is psychological stress the 'silent culprit' that causes skin deterioration?

Prolonged stress and anxiety not only affect the spirit but also cause the skin to "speak out" with a series of problems such as acne, dermatitis, hair loss or premature aging...

A young person arbitrarily went to squeeze a pimple - Photo: THUY DUONG

On October 23, according to information from the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital of Traditional Medicine, when psychological stress lasts for a long time, the adrenal glands increase the secretion of the hormone cortisol, causing the sebaceous glands to become overactive, causing clogged pores, dermatitis and acne. Cortisol also breaks down collagen, causing dry, dull, wrinkled skin and premature aging.

Dr. Ngo Thi Bach Yen, Skin Care and Treatment Unit, Examination Department (Ho Chi Minh City Hospital of Traditional Medicine) - said that common skin diseases caused by prolonged psychological stress include acne, atopic dermatitis, eczema, hives, psoriasis and hair loss. In addition, stress also reduces blood circulation, causing dull, pigmented and wrinkled skin.

"Many patients undergo dermatological treatment but do not improve because the root cause lies in unresolved psychological stress," said Dr. Yen.

From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, the mind and skin are closely related. Stress causes stagnation of liver qi and poor blood circulation, leading to acne, itching, and hair loss.

Nowadays, effective dermatological treatment often combines both methods: Modern medicine reduces inflammation, reduces itching, and controls sebum. Traditional medicine treats from the root with therapies to regulate the mind, regulate Qi, and regulate blood.

Doctors advise keeping a cheerful spirit, getting enough sleep, eating a light diet, limiting spicy foods, practicing meditation - yoga - light exercise every day are natural "medicines" to help reduce stress and improve skin. "The skin is a mirror of the soul. Take care of your skin not only with cosmetics, but also with peace of mind," Dr. Ngo Thi Bach Yen emphasized.

THUY DUONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/cang-thang-tam-ly-co-phai-la-thu-pham-tham-lang-khien-lan-da-xuong-cap-20251023154512466.htm