Does Stress Make Wrinkles Worse?

When it comes to stress, you’re likely already familiar with the negative effects it can have on your health — but what about your appearance? Is it possible that stressing out can actually show up on your face? Or is that just an old wives’ tale we’ve been told over the years?

According to Dr. Anil Sharma from Sharma Skin and Hair Surgery, yes, stress can have a profound impact on your appearance. “Stress, [whether it’s something you deal with occasionally or all the time], can have a noticeable impact on your skin,” he says. “It can make issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and even hair loss worse. This happens because your skin and brain are closely connected — they essentially ‘talk’ to each other.”

So, what about those fine lines and wrinkles? Dr. Sharma says an increase in cortisol (the hormone produced by stress) can affect those stubborn lines. “Cortisol can increase inflammation in your skin, which might trigger flare-ups or make existing problems more intense, and can reduce your skin’s elasticity by breaking down collagen,” he explains. “Over time, this can contribute to wrinkles.”

But don’t freak out just yet — Dr. Sharma says there is a lot you can do to combat stress-induced wrinkles. While genetics play a role in aging, managing stress should be at the top of your priority list for your overall health. Techniques including yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help, but if you have chronic stress, you may need to consult a mental health professional. 

In your skin care routine, Dr. Sharma advises to use products with ingredients including “antioxidants, retinoids, and peptides to boost collagen production and protect your skin from environmental damage.” Retinoids are also a powerful wrinkle-fighting tool.