Can social media pressures trigger stress hives?

Social media can trigger stress, that can wreak havoc on your body, spawning the release of unwanted breakouts and aggravating existing conditions like stress hives

You swipe through endless feeds of flawless faces and filtered lifestyles, those that look like they came straight out of a glossy magazine. Meanwhile, you’re battling stubborn breakouts, wishing they'd magically vanish. We blame the greasy pizza, the period that is due, and maybe even that new face wash. But did you know that your social media activity might be playing a sneaky role in adding to your skin’s woes?

"Social media exposure can intensify stress in several ways," says psychologist and mental health counsellor Ruchi Ruuh. Social media platforms are designed to be addictive. Every like, comment, and notification triggers the release of dopamine. This creates a cycle of needing constant validation, leading to increased anxiety and stress when the validation isn't readily available.

"The barrage of information and updates can overwhelm the brain's capacity to process stimuli, leading to cognitive overload and increased stress levels," says Ruuh. She adds, "[The use of] social media platforms often leads to comparison and competition, making people seek perfection. This can leave them feeling inadequate and doubtful [of themselves]. Individuals already prone to stress and anxiety experience it more severely." 

This stress can wreak havoc on your body, triggering the release of unwanted breakouts and aggravating existing conditions like stress hives. 

Does Social Media Addiction or Comparison Worsen Stress Response? 

A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found a link between problematic social media use and social comparison, causing stress and impaired well-being.

"Most people on social media platforms tend to only showcase the highlights of their good lives, creating an unrealistic standard that other people compare theirs to," says Ruuh.

She also highlights that regularly posting pictures and seeking validation from social media interactions can create dependency for some people. This can manifest as stress and anxiety when they don't receive the attention or engagement they seek, in turn, making them feel unseen, left out, and invalidated, even lowering their confidence.

The Link Between Stress, a Disturbed Stress Response System, and Stress Hives

Recognise that looming deadline or never-ending to-do list fluttering around your stomach like a nervous butterfly? That's your body kicking its stress response system into high gear. Dr Madhuri Aggarwal, a celebrity dermatologist, says, "Stress releases hormones such as cortisol in our system is the chemical that is known to stimulate physiological responses in our bodies." 

Aggarwal further explains, "An unexpected and excess release of cortisol due to stress will disrupt the other hormones, leading to an increase in sebum (oil) production or speeding up the process of skin ageing by accelerating the breakdown of collagen tissue." 

Unlike a healthy stress response that subsides quickly, some of us have a “disturbed” stress response that keeps the fight-or-flight hormones pumping long after the stressor has passed. This chronic activation can lead to low-grade inflammation like stress rash, a significant contributor to skin issues like acne breakouts and hives. 

"Chronic stress is more harmful to the skin, causing long-term detrimental effects. When there is prolonged, excessive stress, it makes the immune system hypersensitive and more reactive. Thus, even in the absence of skin issues, this can lead to skin disorders or negative effects that would freak you out," says Aggarwal. 

Why Late-Night Scrolling is Detrimental for your Skin 

"The addictive nature of social media, including constant scrolling or watching Reel after Reel, can shorten attention span and disturb sleep," says Ruuh. The light emitted from your phone screen is like kryptonite to the melatonin that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. This can lead to restless nights, insomnia, and overall sleep deprivation. "The blue light also has a suppressive effect on melatonin production. This, in turn, disturbs the normal biological sleep pattern, leading to poor quality sleep," says Agarwal.

Poor sleep quality is a major no-no for your skin. "When sleep is disturbed, it can lead to reduced collagen elastin formation, and there is an increase in skin inflammation. Disturbed sleep can also impact the immunity of the skin and weaken the skin barrier. These disrupted skin processes can, over a period of time, cause early ageing; rough, dull skin; and dark circles." elaborates Agarwal. Not having enough sleep can also make the skin more susceptible to irritation and inflammation, causing stress hives and breakouts. 

Can a Social Media Detox Benefit the Skin? 

Social media can be a breeding ground for stress and anxiety. Aggarwal points out, "When you avoid looking at the phone or social media pages, there is reduced blue light exposure. This helps to regulate melatonin production normally and ensures a natural sleep cycle. A social media detox also cuts down the anxiety and stress attached to it. So, there is a decrease in inflammation, and it keeps the cortisol levels in check. A good, undisturbed night of sleep helps the skin to recover, and the skin cells regenerate naturally. This also helps skin health and quality." 

Tips for Taking Control of Your Feed—and Your Skin 

Do you ever find yourself swept away in the endless tide of a curated online world? Perhaps it's time to set about on a transformative journey of self-care. Let’s buckle up for a double detox guide that'll have your social media fixation in check and your skin glowing and free from any acne and stress hives.

The next time you find yourself getting lost in the perfectly curated lives of others online, take a step back to follow these tips: 

Taming the Scrolling Storm:

• Unfriend the Uninspiring: Is your feed overflowing with negativity or unrealistic expectations? It's time to hit that unfollow button and instead surround yourself with accounts that teach you something new or just make you smile.

• Limit Screen Time: Constant screen exposure can disrupt sleep and contribute to skin issues. "Keep a schedule for social media viewing (most smartphones now reflect the time spent on social media pages). Set a switch-off time for the screen before bedtime and adhere to it," advises Aggarwal

• Craft a Calming Nighttime Ritual: Develop a relaxing bedtime routine for quality sleep. This could include taking a hot bubble bath, dimming the lights an hour before your regular bedtime, reading a book with soft light, or practising mindfulness exercises like meditation or deep breathing. When you're well-rested, it shows on your face.

• Develop Offline Practices: “Social media provides the illusion of connectivity, but it can also undermine genuine human connections that can intensify stress and emotional distress,” says Ruuh. Find offline hobbies you enjoy, whether it's reading, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones face-to-face.

Creating a Skincare Sanctuary:

• Hydration Hero: Drinking enough water is like a magic potion for your skin—aim for eight glasses a day for better complexion.

• Cleanse with Kindness: Washing your face is essential, but harsh scrubbing can strip away your skin's natural oils. Find a gentle cleanser that removes dirt without leaving your face feeling parched.

• Remember to Moisturise: Moisturiser is your skin's best friend, keeping your face plump and happy. Find a moisturiser that works for your skin type, whether it's oily, dry, or somewhere in between.

Cultivate a Positive Social Media Experience

According to Statista, India boasts the world's second-largest Internet user base as of 2023, with over 900 million of its population actively using social media.  Social media is an undeniable force in our lives. However, neglecting its potential downsides can turn it from a source of connection and inspiration to a drain on well-being. The key lies in using it consciously.

Curate feeds that uplift, engage with communities that inspire, and contribute content that adds value. By taking control of your social media experience, you can cultivate a more positive and enriching online world for yourself.

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