Can Stress Really Cause Eczema Flare-Ups? Breaking Down the Link

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, inflamed, and irritated skin. 

While many factors contribute to eczema flare-ups—including genetics, allergens, and climate changes—stress is one of the most overlooked triggers. 

If you’ve ever noticed your eczema worsening during high-pressure situations or emotionally challenging times, you’re not imagining things.

In this blog, the SINY team will break down the connection between stress and eczema, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent flare-ups caused by stress.

The Link Between Stress and Eczema

When you experience stress, your body releases cortisol, the “fight or flight” hormone. 

While cortisol plays a crucial role in managing your body’s response to stress, excess cortisol can have a negative impact on the skin.

How Stress Triggers Eczema Flare-Ups

1. Weakened Skin Barrier – High cortisol levels disrupt the production of natural moisturizing factors in your skin, leading to increased dryness and sensitivity. A compromised skin barrier makes it easier for irritants and allergens to penetrate, worsening eczema symptoms.
   
   
2. Increased Inflammation – Stress activates the immune system, causing inflammation throughout the body. Since eczema is already an inflammatory condition, heightened inflammation can lead to redness, swelling, and extreme itching.
   
   
3. Habitual Scratching – Many people scratch unconsciously when they’re stressed, further aggravating the skin and leading to what’s known as the “itch-scratch cycle”—where scratching causes more irritation and worsens eczema symptoms.
   
   
4. Disrupted Sleep Patterns – Stress often leads to poor sleep quality, which can weaken the immune system and increase skin sensitivity. Lack of sleep has been shown to delay skin healing and contribute to longer-lasting eczema flare-ups.

Signs of a Stress-Triggered Eczema Flare-Up

While eczema flare-ups can have multiple causes, you may notice stress-induced flare-ups when:

✅ Your skin suddenly becomes red, inflamed, or itchy during a stressful period.
✅ Your usual eczema treatments seem less effective despite proper skincare.
✅ You experience flare-ups without a clear environmental trigger (such as allergens or weather changes).
✅ You scratch more often during times of anxiety or pressure.

If you identify with any of these, stress may be a major factor in your eczema outbreaks.

How to Manage Stress-Related Eczema

While you can’t always eliminate stress from your life, you can take steps to reduce its impact on your skin. 

Here are some dermatologist-recommended strategies:

1. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques

Incorporating stress-management techniques into your daily routine can significantly reduce eczema flare-ups. Consider:

• Deep breathing exercises to lower cortisol levels.
• Yoga or meditation to calm the nervous system.
• Journaling or therapy to process emotions in a healthy way.

2. Prioritize Skincare and Hydration

• Use fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated.
• Apply moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture.
• Avoid hot showers, which can strip your skin’s protective oils.

3. Improve Your Diet for Skin Health

• Eat anti-inflammatory foods like salmon, nuts, and leafy greens.
• Reduce processed foods and sugar, which can worsen inflammation.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

4. Get Enough Sleep

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to regulate cortisol levels.
• Create a relaxing nighttime routine to improve sleep quality.
• Keep your bedroom cool and use breathable fabrics to avoid overheating.

5. Seek Professional Help for Severe Cases

If stress is triggering frequent or severe eczema flare-ups, a dermatologist can provide:

• Prescription topical treatments (such as steroid creams or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories).
• Oral medications to control inflammation.
• Light therapy (phototherapy) for chronic eczema cases.

Don’t Let Stress Take Control of Your Skin

Eczema and stress are deeply connected, but you don’t have to suffer through flare-ups alone. 

If stress is impacting your skin, our dermatologists at SINY Dermatology can help create a personalized eczema treatment plan to manage symptoms effectively.

Author

SINY