How Stress Affects the Skin, Hair, and Nails

Stress is an inseparable part of our lives, but each of us experiences it differently and is affected by it in different ways. Sometimes it is the driving force we need, e.g., to meet a deadline or perform well on a test. However, when it is intense, frequent, or prolonged, it can impact the entire body, including the skin, hair, and nails.

“The body responds to stress by activating various mechanisms, in an effort to better prepare for something perceived as a threat. One of these mechanisms is the stimulation of cortisol production, the so-called ‘stress hormone’,” says Dermatologist-Aphrodisiologist Dr. Markos Michelakis from EDOEAP. “Cortisol prepares the body for ‘fight’ and normally does not cause problems. However, when someone suffers from chronic stress, its continuous overproduction causes increased sebum (oil) production in the skin, which can lead to clogged pores and acne flare-ups.”

Additionally, chronic stress increases internal inflammation in the body, which can worsen or trigger flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. It can also reactivate infections like cold sores and act as a trigger for skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, or even autoimmune skin diseases (e.g., vitiligo).

Stress also affects the immune system, stimulating its activity. This makes the skin more reactive and sensitive, resulting in the development of rashes, redness, and hives.

The effects of stress can also be indirect. Many people, for example, tend to “pick” at their pimples when feeling anxious or stressed, until they “burst” or bleed. This in turn can lead to more pimples, scarring, or infections.

Stress can also negatively affect the aesthetic appearance of the skin. Among other things, it promotes dryness because it reduces the skin’s ability to retain moisture and contributes to the formation of “bags” under the eyes.

As if that weren’t enough, chronic stress can also prematurely age the skin, as hormones break down collagen and elastin, interfering with skin regeneration. All these effects can accelerate the aging process, causing more fine lines and wrinkles.

“The brain and the skin are closely connected and communicate with each other,” emphasizes the specialist. “This means that when we experience chronic stress due to work, relationships, or current circumstances, the skin becomes a target of stress hormones, making it more vulnerable to itching, inflammation, irritation, and infections.”

Hair and nails are equally vulnerable. Hair requires trace elements such as magnesium and manganese to stay healthy and strong. Under stress, the need for these nutrients increases, but their absorption from food decreases. This is why the more intense the stress, the duller and more brittle the hair becomes.

Another risk is hair loss. When the body is exposed to significant chronic stress, up to 70% of hair can enter the telogen phase (the resting phase of hair growth). When this happens, hair begins to fall out, resulting in visible thinning of the scalp.

If someone experiences a particularly stressful event, such as an injury or serious illness, their hair may completely stop growing as the body focuses on recovery.

Stress-induced hair loss usually takes six to nine months to reverse, but sometimes the lost hair takes longer to regrow.

In predisposed individuals, there is also a serious possibility of premature graying due to intense stress, caused by the faster production of oxygen free radicals. Free radicals damage the cells in the hair follicle that produce hair pigment (melanocytes).

Nails are not immune to stress either. To remain healthy, nails require proteins, magnesium, zinc, iron, and other nutrients. Since stress hinders nutrient absorption from food, nails may develop “pitting,” become brittle, or peel. Horizontal ridges may also appear.

Many people, moreover, tend to take out their stress on their nails, biting or rubbing them persistently, causing mechanical damage.

To protect yourself as much as possible from these risks, Dr. Michelakis recommends the following:

• Take care of your skin daily, no matter how tired or stressed you feel.
• Eat healthy and balanced, focusing on plant-based foods.
• Exercise daily (exercise allows you to “release” stress and stimulates the production of wellness hormones in the brain).
• Get enough sleep (7-8 hours each night).
• Dedicate a little time each day to relax. Try meditation, deep breathing, relaxation techniques, etc.

“Stress management is very important for the health of the entire body, including the skin and its appendages (hair, nails),” emphasizes Dr. Michelakis. “If you feel that your stress is prolonged, very intense, or chronic and you cannot manage it on your own, it is advisable to consult your doctor.”