Stress if often thought to play a role in acne. However, there has not been enough research into the area to prove that stress is a definite contributing factor. Yet, anecdotal and observational evidence (meaning that is has not yet been confirmed in rigorous scientific studies) does suggest that stress can influence an acne outbreak.
Cortisol is a hormone released into the body during periods of stress. Cortisol is thought to result in the body producing more testosterone and DHT, which are hormones that increase the amount of oil flowing out of your skin’s sebaceous glands. This, in turn, can lead to more blockages of hair follicles and the formation of acne.
Stress also causes inflammation in the body in general (including the skin), which can worsen the appearance of pre-existing acne.
If you have found that you tend to get acne when you are stressed then it is likely that stress is a contributing factor for you.