We’ve all experienced it: You start to feel under the weather, and suddenly your skin breaks out in blemishes. While it’s frustrating to deal with both a cold or flu and skin issues at the same time, there’s a reason why they often seem to go hand in hand. Here’s what you need to know about the link between skin breakouts and falling sick.

Stress and Inflammation

When we get sick, our bodies go into overdrive to fight off the infection. This can cause stress and inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. Stress and inflammation can lead to an increase in oil production, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

In addition, when we’re sick, we may not be taking care of our skin as well as we normally would. We may be too tired or weak to stick to our regular skincare routine, or we may be using products that are too harsh or drying. This can further exacerbate skin issues and lead to more breakouts.

Immune System Function

Another reason why falling sick can lead to skin breakouts is because of the impact it has on our immune system. When our immune system is weakened, it can’t fight off bacteria and viruses as effectively. This can allow bacteria to thrive on the skin, leading to infections and breakouts.

In addition, some medications that are commonly used to treat illnesses can also have an impact on the skin. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, leading to breakouts. Corticosteroids, which are often used to treat inflammation, can also lead to acne and other skin issues.

Dehydration

When we’re sick, our bodies may lose more fluids than usual due to sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. This can lead to dehydration, which can have a negative impact on the skin. Dehydrated skin is more prone to breakouts, as it can become dry, flaky, and irritated. In addition, dehydration can cause the skin to produce more oil, leading to clogged pores and further breakouts.

How to Prevent Skin Breakouts When You’re Sick

While it can be difficult to avoid skin breakouts altogether when you’re sick, there are a few things you can do to minimize their impact.

First, make sure to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Second, try to stick to your regular skincare routine as much as possible. If you’re too tired or weak to do your full routine, at least make sure to cleanse your skin and apply moisturizer.

Third, be mindful of the products you’re using on your skin. Avoid anything that’s too harsh or drying, and look for products that are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Finally, try to manage your stress levels as much as possible. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, or engage in activities that help you feel calm and relaxed.

In conclusion, there is a clear link between skin breakouts and falling sick. Stress, inflammation, weakened immune function, and dehydration can all contribute to skin issues when we’re not feeling our best. By taking steps to care for our skin and manage our stress levels, we can minimize the impact of illness on our skin and keep our complexion looking healthy and clear.