Which of the following is an effect of stress on skin health?

Stress has a significant impact on skin health, and one of the notable effects is that it may aggravate existing skin conditions. When a person experiences stress, the body produces higher levels of hormones like cortisol, which can lead to various skin issues. This increase in cortisol can cause inflammatory responses that exacerbate conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, making these skin issues more pronounced and difficult to manage.

Additionally, stress can impair the skin's barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritation and infection. It can also trigger behaviors such as scratching or picking at the skin, which can further worsen pre-existing conditions. This understanding supports the notion that stress is not just a psychological factor but has tangible effects on skin physiology and overall skin health.

Other possibilities, such as improving skin healing, decreasing oil production, and preventing sensitivity, do not typically align with the well-documented effects of stress on the skin. Instead, stress generally has detrimental effects, highlighting the importance of managing stress for maintaining healthy skin.