A2oz

Does Depression Affect Your Skin?

Published in Mental Health 2 mins read

Yes, depression can affect your skin in several ways.

How Depression Impacts Skin Health

Depression can disrupt your body's natural processes, leading to changes in your skin. Here's how:

  • Stress Hormones: Depression can cause an increase in stress hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammation and breakouts.
  • Sleep Disruptions: Depression often leads to sleep problems, which can worsen skin conditions like eczema and acne.
  • Poor Diet and Exercise: People with depression may neglect their diet and exercise, contributing to skin problems.
  • Weakened Immune System: Depression can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to skin infections.

Common Skin Issues Linked to Depression

Depression has been linked to several skin conditions, including:

  • Acne: Stress and hormonal changes can worsen acne.
  • Eczema: Sleep deprivation and stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
  • Psoriasis: Depression can worsen the severity and frequency of psoriasis flares.
  • Rosacea: Stress can trigger rosacea flare-ups.
  • Skin Picking: Depression can lead to skin picking, which can cause scarring and infections.

Seeking Help

If you're struggling with depression and experiencing skin issues, it's crucial to seek help from a mental health professional and a dermatologist. They can help you address both the underlying depression and any skin conditions you may have.

Related Articles