health π Can stress really cause acne breakouts?
While stress is often blamed for acne, dermatologists say it's rarely the sole cause. Higher perceived stress is linked to more severe acne, which affects about 9.4% of the global population. Stress activates the HPA axis, increasing cortisol and inflammation that can worsen skin issues. However, hormonal disorders and medications must be checked before blaming stress alone. Experts suggest combining lifestyle changes with evidence-based medical treatment. π