The link between skin & mental health
Have you ever noticed that your skin tends to break out more when you're stressed? Or maybe you've experienced a flare-up of eczema or psoriasis during a particularly anxious time? If so, you're not alone, and there's an emerging field of study that explores this connection between the mind and the skin. It's called psychodermatology.
One of the key concepts in psychodermatology is the idea that the skin and the mind are interconnected through a complex network of neurological, immunological, cutaneous, and endocrine systems. When this network is destabilised, it can lead to a variety of skin disorders, such as psoriasis, eczema, hives, acne, and hair loss.
One study revealed that stress and anxiety was present in 44% of patients before their initial flare of psoriasis, and recurrent flares have been attributed to stress in up to 80% of individuals. This highlights the importance of psychological health in the quest for skin health.
Chronic stress has been found to disrupt the skin’s permeability, which may contribute to some of these inflammatory skin conditions, and can disrupt normal gastrointestinal tract function, potentially leading to a leaky gut. When gut barrier function is compromised, toxins, food particles, and other pathogens can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and skin problems.
Not only are skin conditions affected by stress or anxiety, but emotional distress can be caused by poor skin health or more serious skin conditions. Our skin is on display at all times, making it one of the most important factors in self-image, confidence, and personal interactions. Blemishes, rashes, wounds, and the like can have a profound impact on our self-esteem and confidence, placing those with poor skin at higher risk of mental health conditions.
“Patients living with chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, rosacea and eczema often find themselves in a continuous feedback loop. Stress, anxiety, depression and trauma may influence their skin symptoms, but the daily struggle of living with the skin condition also places a huge burden on their mental health, contributing to more stress, anxiety, and depression.” Rupahealth.com
In one survey 85% of patients with poor skin health experienced mental health issues that stem from living with the condition, and there’s a higher risk of suicide in this population. Rosacea can be associated with higher rates of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and one trial found rosacea patients who addressed this experienced almost complete resolution of their skin symptoms. And in a study of patients with acne it was found that they have higher rates of intestinal permeability and bacteria, which can alter skin homeostasis.
Psychodermatology is an emerging field with exciting implications for the skincare industry. This new approach to skin health offers a more comprehensive and effective way to manage and maintain healthy youthful skin.
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