Acne breakouts appearing just before important events such as weddings, performances or other major occasions may be linked to increased stress, according to physician Dr Kunal Sood. In an Instagram post on August 7, Sood explained that stress can affect the skin in several ways and may trigger or worsen certain skin conditions in some people.

According to Sood, one of the main ways stress affects the skin is by increasing inflammation. During periods of chronic stress, the body releases hormones and inflammatory signals that can cause some existing skin conditions to flare up. While acne may become more noticeable for some people, others may experience worsening symptoms of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea or hives.

Sood also explained that prolonged stress can weaken the skin barrier. A compromised skin barrier can make the skin more susceptible to irritation and contribute to moisture loss. This can make existing skin problems more noticeable and may leave the skin more vulnerable during periods when a person is already experiencing heightened stress.

Also Read: Lumbar Disc Prolapse: Understanding When Surgery Is Recommended

Another factor is the effect stress can have on sleep. Sleep plays an important role in the body's overnight repair processes, including the recovery of skin tissue. According to Sood, persistent stress can interfere with normal sleep patterns, potentially giving the skin less time to repair itself and recover from daily damage.

The physician stressed that stress is not the only cause of acne or other skin conditions, but it can act as an important trigger for some people. He therefore linked stress management with maintaining overall health as well as skin health. The explanation was shared in the context of people noticing changes in their skin during particularly demanding or emotionally significant periods.

The information was shared by Sood through social media and is intended for general awareness rather than as a substitute for medical consultation. People experiencing persistent or severe acne, or other continuing skin problems, should consult a qualified healthcare professional for individual assessment and appropriate treatment.

Also Read: Worried About Eating Fruit After Meals? Here’s What Experts Say