Is anxiety affecting our skin? Here's what we should really do about it

They say you are what you eat. However, as much as your diet matters to your physical health, your mental health matters the same - if not more. It’s a mantra that speaks to the power of the mind is impacting how we appear physically – positive, happy feelings always manifest as radiance. It follows, then, that when we are feeling low (hello, Covid-19!), our skin may well follow suit. As the world gears up for one of the biggest cultural changes of all time, how does that affect our mental health? And in retrospect, what are the dermatological consequences?

According to Vogue, a psychodermatologist – a dermatologist who pays special attention to the psychology of skin – Dr Alia Ahmed shared that the skin issues that can flare up as a result of stress and anxiety. Put simply, tricky feelings go hand-in-hand with skin issues.

“Anxiety is a well-known trigger of the stress response, which is linked to skin problems like acne, eczema, urticaria, psoriasis, rosacea and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders,” Dr Ahmed remarked. “Other established links include itching (dermatological conditions associated with itching have higher reported levels of anxiety and lower quality of life), disease flares (especially psoriasis and eczema), hives, flushing and sweating.” Anxiety, she adds, is often expressed in emotional facial expressions, such as forehead furrows and eleven lines.

How can we break the cycle?

1. Manage your environment.

Create a positive environment, keeping favourite candles, scents, music or colours close by. People feel more satisfied and experience improved mental health if the surrounding conditions are well managed.

2. Self-dialogue.

Keep a positive mantra to recite to yourself, especially at the times when you are feeling low. Try affirmative phrases such as: “I respect myself, I am worthy, I am unique, I will not give up.” Think about what you’re thankful for daily, and remind yourself of them periodically.

3. Get more sleep.

Sleep at least eight hours a night to allow skin the time to repair itself.

4. Banish negative influences.

If you are noticing that something in your life is emotionally draining or making you feel low about yourself, begin the process of removing it if you can.

5. Stay hydrated.

Drink at least two-and-a-half litres of fluid a day to reduce the effects of dehydration on the skin.

6. Invest in a facial tool.

Consider gentle facial massage to improve circulation, lymphatic drainage and boost collagen production – it’s also a great method of relaxation. Try a gua sha tool, such as Mount Lai’s Jade Gua Sha (£25, available at Beautybay.com), to aid your massage movements.

7. Don’t forget your diet.

The interaction between the gut, brain and skin should not be forgotten when assessing skin health. The natural balance of the gut can be skewed by lifestyle factors and stress, which can in turn promote inflammation, which is implicated in skin conditions.