Stress can affect the body in many ways regardless of the cause of stress. One of the effects of stress is on the skin. The following effects on stress include:
- Stress causes an increased release of certain hormones. These hormones will cause an increase in the production of sebum (oil) and this will lead to oily skin. The increased production of sebum will also increase the risk of acne formation.
- Effect of stress on the nails: stress can affect the nail in the way that some people when stressed they pick their nails, others bite their nails in reaction to stress.
- Effect of stress on the hair: stress can cause hair loss; this hair loss is of two types. The first one is called Telogen effluvium in which the hair will stop growing and stay dormant for two to three months it will then fall out. Hair will grow again within six to nine months. The other type of hair loss that can happen after stress is called alopecia areata in which immune cells attack the hair follicle causing destruction of the hair follicle and the loss of hair. This type can affect the scalp in which the whole scalp hair may be lost and may also affect other hairy parts of the body. Hair loss usually happens in groups (patches) and usually within weeks after the stressful event. Hair may grow on its own but medical treatment is usually needed.
This information is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice; it should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.