Why does stress trigger breakouts, and how can Curology help?

How does cortisol impact your skin health?

When your adrenal glands release cortisol and other hormones, it creates a biological chain reaction that can compromise your skin's health through multiple interconnected mechanisms. This can contribute to:

• Increased Sebum: Cortisol can signal glands to produce more oil, creating more opportunities for bacteria to thrive.

• Barrier Compromise: Chronic stress weakens the outermost layer of your skin, making it more reactive and sensitive to environmental triggers.

• Inflammatory Flare-ups: Increased cortisol levels are linked to higher acne severity and redness.

Can stress actually shift your hormone levels?

Yes. Stress can amplify androgen activity. During periods of stress, hormones that stimulate the oil glands are released, which can start a process that leads to acne. This might be why your skin often feels out of sync during periods of stress, such as finals week or holiday travel. At Curology, our dermatology providers review your medical history, skin concerns, and other factors to understand your unique needs and presentation. They will also examine photos to help determine the acne severity. Curology dermatology providers then prescribe a customized formula that can be modified if needed. Our providers can also advise on other practical changes to address things like stress.

What is the clinical strategy for a prescription skincare routine that doesn’t add stress?

When your life is chaotic, your skincare shouldn’t be. We advocate for a simple routine designed to minimize effort and maximize efficacy. A consistent 3-step routine can offer results with less stress and time than a complex 10-step regimen. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be consistent.

The stress-free protocol:

At Curology, we generally recommend a simple 3-step skincare routine. Consistency is key, and we find that this is usually an easy routine to follow.

• Morning: Use a gentle cleanser followed by your preferred moisturizer. Always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. For an AM treatment, you may consider Curology’s DayPrime Rx to target acne with clinically proven prescription active ingredients, while the primer base visibly blurs imperfections.

• Night: Cleanse, treat, and moisturize are the steps we generally recommend in the evening. You may consider a nighttime prescription formula such as Custom Formula Rx or HydroTret Rx to target your specific skin goals. Curology’s prescription formulas are subject to medical consultation, and our licensed dermatology providers are happy to answer your questions and offer personalized care along your skincare journey. 

FAQ

1. How long do stress-related breakouts last?

In general, these breakouts can typically last from a few days to several weeks. Timeframes will vary from person to person. It is important to follow your dermatology provider’s guidance for how to optimize your routine during this time. 

2. Why might prescription care be better than OTC for stress acne?

In general, OTC products offer 1 active ingredient in a one-size-fits-all product. Personalized prescription formulas, such as those at Curology, can offer up to 3 clinically proven active ingredients in 1 formula, along with a licensed medical provider who can adjust your formula as your skin concerns and goals change to optimize treatment.

3. Does DayPrime Rx help with immediate coverage?

Yes. It offers a blurring primer base that visibly blurs imperfections, and it is designed to go on smoothly and seamlessly, creating an ideal canvas for makeup while treating acne with prescription actives underneath.

Written by

Elise Bradley, PA-C

Medically reviewed by

Elise Bradley, PA-C