These Three Signs On Your Face Can Reveal How Stressed You Are

Illustration of signs on the face due to stress. (Pexels)

JAKARTA - When a person experiences stress, a person's body will respond with various physical changes, including the facial part. Changes in the face can even indicate the level of stress experienced, from mild to severe.

"The release of stress mediators has many effects, and they can increase inflammation and itching, damage skin barriers and wound healing," said dermatologist Dr. Hallie McDonald, quoted from Huffpost, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

Here are some changes to the face that can indicate a person's stress level that you should know.

1. Acne

Hallie says acne is a change in the face that is most often encountered when a person is stressed. This is because stress hormones increase oil production and increase inflammation, which worsen acne.

"Hormon stress like cortisol increases production of oil and inflammation, which can exacerbate acne and irritation," said Hallie.

So, if stress increases, it can worsen the condition of acne on the face.

2. Bags under the eyes

Bags under dark brown eyes can indicate a person is experiencing severe stress. This stress can make it difficult for a person to sleep, which makes the pockets under the eyes worse.

I see stress reflected in the area under the eyes. It's a subtle sign, but it's very real that the body, including the skin, is feeling a stress effect," he added.

3. Texture of rough facial skin

Changes in the texture of facial skin can also be a sign that a person is experiencing stress. The facial skin test that becomes more severe because of stress is often more reactive to the skin.

A rougher skin texture may also appear, as stressed skin is often more reactive to products and environmental changes, continued dermatologist Dr. Lauren Moy.