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How stress impacts your skin: Acne triggers explained

Anita Amin
15, Oct 2025

Many people notice their skin breaking out just before exams, job interviews or big life events. This is not your imagination. Stress affects your whole body, including your skin. When pressure builds, hormones and habits change, and acne can flare up.

If you understand how stress triggers acne and know when to seek help, you can protect your skin and your confidence. Dr. Anita Amin offers private acne consultations and personalised treatment plans across Sussex to help you take back control.

The science behind stress and acne

Stress activates the body’s natural response system. It releases cortisol, adrenaline and other hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones increase oil production in the skin. Extra oil combines with dead cells and bacteria to block pores and create blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots.

Stress can also weaken the skin barrier, making it more sensitive and reactive. People with eczema or rosacea often see flare-ups during stressful periods. Acne behaves in a similar way. Even if you normally have clear skin, stress may lead to sudden breakouts.

Lifestyle changes during stressful times

Stress is not only about hormones. It changes how you live day to day. When you are under pressure, you might sleep less, eat quickly or forget your regular skincare routine. All of these habits can make acne worse.

Lack of sleep slows the skin’s healing process. Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can increase inflammation. Using harsh products or skipping cleansing can damage the skin barrier. Being aware of these patterns helps you make small changes. Going to bed earlier, staying hydrated and using gentle products can reduce stress-related breakouts.

Why professional help matters

For some people, self-care alone is not enough. Persistent or severe acne often needs expert assessment. Over the counter products can be too weak or too harsh. You risk wasting time and money on the wrong things if you don’t have guidance.

A dermatologist can examine your skin, identify your triggers and recommend a customised acne treatment plan. Dr Anita Amin has years of specialist training in dermatology and offers private acne consultations for adults and teenagers across Sussex. Her approach combines medical expertise with a clear understanding of how stress affects the skin. She runs her online clinic with Dr Anna Ascott, who has published widely in medical journals, and is active in current research.

What to expect from an acne consultation

An acne consultation with Dr Anita Amin and Dr Anna Ascott is a detailed one to one appointment. She will assess your skin type, review your medical history, and discuss lifestyle factors, such as stress, sleep, and diet. She will explain your options clearly so you can make informed decisions about your acne treatment.

You can choose to visit one of her private dermatology clinics along the South Coast or use the online consultation service to send your case online  or to discuss your skin by video conference. This makes it easy to access expert care without waiting for an NHS referral.

Treatments available at an acne clinic

An acne clinic offers more than just prescriptions. It provides a complete approach to your skin health. Depending on your needs, treatments may include topical creams, oral medications, light-based therapies, or gentle chemical peels. The goals are to reduce breakouts, calm inflammation, and prevent scarring.

At Dr. Anita Amin’s acne clinic, you can expect a thorough assessment, clear guidance, and ongoing support. This combination of expertise and follow-up care helps patients see real improvement over time.

When to book an appointment

If stress-related breakouts are affecting your confidence or your skin is not responding to shop-bought products, it may be time to book an acne consultation. Early treatment prevents long-term marks and gives you the best chance of clear skin.

Dr. Anita Amin offers appointments at several private dermatology clinics, including Eastbourne, Hove, and Worthing. You can also submit your details online with Dr Anna Ascott for an online service for a quick response, or to discuss your skin in detail by video call.

Taking back control of your skin

Stress is part of life, but acne does not have to be. By understanding the link between stress and breakouts, improving your daily habits, and seeking expert care when needed, you can protect your skin’s health. Professional acne treatment at a dedicated acne clinic can make a real difference to your complexion and your confidence. Whether you need advice on lifestyle changes or advanced medical treatments, Dr. Anita Amin and Dr Anna Ascott provide personalised care to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

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