While stress alone isn't the cause of acne pimples — age, hormones, acne-producing bacteria and other factors are at play — it's evident that stress can trigger breakouts and make existing acne issues worse.

How do you get rid of stress acne?

Stress causes acne by releasing the hormone cortisol, which may make your skin more oily. To prevent stress acne, wash your face regularly, exercise, and eat healthy foods. Stress acne can be treated by using vitamin A cream, managing stress, and not picking at pimples.

What does acne from stress look like?

Given the increase in oil production, she says your skin will usually look greasier and slightly more inflamed. Zeichner adds that stress acne can also look like a combination of blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, and pus pimples.