Does stress exacerbate acne conditions?

Stress is known to have a significant impact on many bodily functions, including skin health. When an individual experiences stress, the body produces higher levels of hormones such as cortisol. Increased cortisol levels can lead to heightened oil production in the skin, resulting in clogged pores and, subsequently, exacerbated acne conditions. Furthermore, stress can also trigger inflammatory responses, which can worsen the appearance of existing acne. Thus, the statement that stress does indeed exacerbate acne conditions is supported by scientific evidence linking stress to hormone fluctuations and inflammatory processes that negatively affect the skin.

The other choices do not capture the full scope of the relationship between stress and acne. For instance, asserting that stress does not influence acne ignores the well-documented psychosomatic effects of stress on skin conditions. Limiting the impact of stress to only adolescents fails to recognize that individuals of all ages can experience acne exacerbated by stress. Lastly, suggesting a temporary effect downplays the chronic nature of stress-related skin issues, as the impact on acne can persist as long as the individual remains under stress.