How does stress cause itching, eczema and premature aging?

May 17, 2023

Kaip stresas sukelia niežulį, egzemą ir ankstyvesnio senėjimo procesus?

Eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) is a skin condition characterised by redness, itching, swelling, dryness and sometimes flaking. Eczema usually appears in skin folds, such as the insides of the elbows and the backs of the knees, but it can also appear on the face and other parts of the body.

The causes of eczema are not fully understood, but it is thought to result from an interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Atopic eczema is known to be linked to other atopic conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Eczema can appear at any age, but it most often begins in childhood. It can last a lifetime, but for many people it improves with age. Eczema treatment includes skin care products and creams that help reduce inflammation and control itching. Some people may also need allergy medication.

Eczema dermatitis

Do you suffer from itching or skin inflammation, or have you noticed eczema even though you know it is not an allergy? Have you suddenly seen more wrinkles in the mirror without changing your skin care routine? In many cases even doctors cannot find the cause of skin problems. Many studies show that the cause often lies in our lifestyle. Today we know that the saying "the skin is a mirror of the soul" has a basis. The connection between the skin and the mind is now a whole branch of science: psychodermatology. Stress is a common cause of itching and other skin problems.

Why can stress cause itching?

Itching does not necessarily mean you have eczema. One day one part of the body may itch, the next day another, and some people experience unexplained itching all over the body. But why does this happen? Stress affects the nervous system, especially the sympathetic nervous system. This can increase sensitivity to pain and itching.

Stress triggers the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Cortisol can affect the skin and the immune system, which can lead to skin problems, including itching. Stress can also weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to allergens, infections and inflammation. This can cause itching, especially if the body reacts to allergens or has an inflammatory skin condition.

Constant scratching irritates the skin and weakens its barrier, so the skin becomes very sensitive and vulnerable to bacteria and inflammation, and it needs help before it can protect itself from environmental factors again.

What skin problems does stress cause?

Besides tormenting itching, stress can cause other skin problems that may not be so obvious at first: wrinkles and dull, greyish skin can also be the result of stress, because the stress hormone cortisol is a great enemy of collagen, which helps keep the skin elastic. Stress also narrows the blood vessels, so the skin is less well supplied and suffers from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Stress dries out the skin, because tension damages the skin's lipid barrier and the skin cannot retain moisture as well.

The skin as a barometer of well-being

All skin symptoms should be taken seriously, because the effects of stress do not end with itching, eczema, wrinkles or pimples. Stress can do much more damage to the skin. Even if itchy skin is caused by an allergy or a skin disease such as neurodermatitis or psoriasis, studies show that stress worsens the symptoms and causes more frequent flare-ups.

First aid for stressed skin

First aid for stressed skin starts with proper hygiene and skin care. Use a gentle cleanser so as not to damage the skin's barrier layer. Avoid water that is too hot, as it can damage the skin's lipid layer and cause dehydration.

The second step is moisturising. Moisturising creams and lotions help keep the skin hydrated and can protect it from external irritants. Other products, such as soothing serums or creams, can be helpful during periods of severe stress. EUBOS Urea products are ideal for this.

Most important, however, is to remove the source of stress. This may mean practising relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises or meditation, eating healthily and getting enough sleep. Stress is known to have a direct effect on the skin, so reducing it can help prevent skin problems. It is also important to see a dermatologist if your skin does not improve or gets worse, as you may need an individual treatment plan.

Proper skin care can help a great deal with itching, eczema and similar problems – but it is important to find the cause and reduce stress. Your skin will thank you!

Our recommendation. For daily care of very dry, flaky and itchy skin, choose Eubos Urea 10% body lotion. It can be used as a complementary body care product alongside treatment prescribed by your doctor.

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