Stress can indeed have a direct and significant effect on your skin tone. Skin tone is a combination of your genetic makeup, ultraviolet radiation, and other external elements. When you experience stress, your body produces cortisol – also known as the “stress hormone” – which causes a myriad of physical changes.
One of those changes can be an increase in melanin production, the pigment in your skin that gives it its color. When your body produces more melanin, your skin can take on a darker, or even redder, hue.
It’s also possible for stress to worsen existing skin conditions. Stress can exacerbate conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, which can all affect the overall tone and texture of your skin.
In addition to changing your skin tone, stress can also cause premature aging. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can break down collagen, the protein that keeps your skin looking youthful and wrinkle-free.
Finally, stress can lead to poor lifestyle choices like overeating, drinking, smoking, and not getting enough sleep. All of these can cause your skin to look dull and sallow, resulting in a change in skin tone.
All in all, stress can definitely change your skin tone in more ways than one. If you’re feeling stressed, it’s important to take care of yourself by engaging in relaxation techniques, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep.