Yes, stress can cause atopic dermatitis flare-ups. The mechanism of the body reacting to stress includes cortisol production. Cortisol is called ‘a stress hormone’ and, as one of its multiple functions, regulates the way our immune system functions.
Low cortisol peaks are necessary, but if we stress too much, it eventually affects our immune response. It promotes inflammation, which makes our skin more prone to flare-ups and can worsen eczema symptoms.
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