Understanding Thermal Expansion
In our everyday lives, we often encounter situations that remind us of the delicate dance between temperature and physical matter.
Have you ever noticed that a metal lid can be particularly stubborn to open after a meal? Or perhaps you’ve felt the smoothness of a wooden chair becoming less inviting on a hot summer day? These seemingly simple experiences are reflections of a fascinating phenomenon known as thermal expansion.
Thermal expansion is the tendency of matter to change its shape, area, and volume in response to a change in temperature.
Stress influences acne through complex interactions between the nervous system, hormones, and the skin’s immune response. When psychological stress increases, the body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and corticotropin-releasing hormone. These signals can stimulate sebaceous glands, leading to increased sebum production. Excess oil combines with abnormal follicular keratinization, contributing to clogged pores and the formation of comedones such as blackheads and whiteheads. At the same time, stress-related signaling may amplify inflammatory pathways in the skin, making existing acne lesions appear more red, swollen, or persistent.
The skin is closely connected to the central nervous system through what is sometimes described as the skin–brain axis. Under prolonged stress, changes in immune regulation can increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In acne-prone individuals, this may intensify inflammatory acne lesions, particularly papules and pustules. Stress can also impair skin barrier function, increasing transepidermal water loss and sensitivity. A weakened barrier may make the skin more reactive to topical treatments such as retinoids, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide, potentially leading to irritation that further disrupts barrier stability.
Behavioral changes associated with stress may compound these biological effects. Sleep disruption can alter hormonal balance and skin repair processes. Increased consumption of high-glycemic foods during stressful periods may influence insulin signaling, which has been studied for its potential impact on sebum production. Stress may also lead to inconsistent skincare habits, overuse of exfoliating products, or frequent touching and picking at lesions, all of which can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Stress management may support clearer skin by moderating these interconnected pathways. Practices such as regular physical activity, structured sleep routines, mindfulness techniques, and breathing exercises have been associated with reduced cortisol levels and improved overall well-being. While these strategies are not standalone acne treatments, they may help reduce flare frequency or severity in individuals who notice stress-related breakouts. Supporting the skin barrier with gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and ingredients such as niacinamide can improve tolerance to active treatments and reduce visible redness.
Evidence-based acne therapies remain central to management. Topical retinoids help normalize follicular keratinization and prevent clogged pores. Salicylic acid may assist in clearing blackheads by penetrating into the pore and dissolving excess keratin. Benzoyl peroxide can reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammatory activity. When acne is moderate to severe or resistant to over-the-counter skincare, consultation with a qualified dermatologist may be appropriate to evaluate hormonal influences, prescribe targeted treatments, or address scarring risk.
Stress management should be viewed as a supportive component of a comprehensive acne strategy rather than a cure. Improvements in acne typically require consistent treatment over several weeks, and results vary based on genetics, hormonal activity, and baseline skin type. Integrating lifestyle approaches with medically informed skincare may help create a more stable environment for long-term acne control while promoting overall skin health.
