Stress may decrease immune system function, increase susceptibility to infection and trigger inflammation. Chronic stress is quickly becoming a major health concern in the United States, and research shows that it can have lasting negative effects on your body and skin. According to a study published in Inflammation & Allergy Drug Targets, stress may decrease immune system function, increase susceptibility to infection and trigger inflammation. These factors, combined with the likelihood that stress may also reduce cellular lifespan, can lead to premature signs of skin aging, including lines, wrinkles and sagging skin.
Taking steps to reduce stress, such as spending some time in nature, taking a break from work and “screen time” and even listening to music, may help to significantly reduce these risk factors.