When the body fights off an illness, it often triggers changes that can manifest on the skin, leading to unexpected breakouts. Several biological reasons explain why being sick can result in new or worsened skin issues.
The Body’s Biological Response to Illness
When an illness strikes, the body’s natural defense mechanisms initiate a stress response. This involves an increase in cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the skin’s oil glands to produce more sebum. Excess sebum can then clog pores, creating an environment favorable for acne development.
Beyond hormonal changes, illness also triggers systemic inflammation as the immune system works to combat infection. This inflammation can aggravate existing skin conditions or lead to new ones, appearing as redness and irritated skin. Research indicates that inflammation can even be a root cause of acne, as it can lead to the oxidation of sebum, creating a low-oxygen environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive.
Fluid loss from fever or reduced fluid intake during illness can result in dehydration, affecting the skin’s barrier function. A compromised skin barrier becomes dry and more prone to issues. Furthermore, severe illnesses can sometimes impact circulation, which indirectly affects skin health by reducing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to skin cells.
Medications and Skin Reactions
Medications commonly used to treat illnesses can cause skin reactions as a side effect. Certain antibiotics, for example, can cause rashes, hives, or increased sensitivity to sunlight. These reactions can appear as red, itchy bumps, or even peeling skin, and may develop days or weeks after starting the medication.
Antiviral drugs can also lead to skin reactions, including skin rashes, itching, or even hives. Over-the-counter medications, though generally considered safe, can also induce rashes in some individuals.
A skin reaction to medication may be an allergic response. Allergic drug rashes can range from mild itching and hives to more severe symptoms like blistering or widespread skin involvement. These reactions can occur quickly, within minutes to hours, or be delayed for days or even weeks after exposure to the drug.
Supporting Your Skin During Illness
Maintaining proper hydration is important for skin health when sick. Drinking plenty of fluids helps combat dehydration, which can make skin dry and irritated.
Using gentle skincare products can help minimize irritation during illness. Opt for mild, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers, and avoid harsh ingredients that might strip the skin. Moisturizers containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin can help rehydrate and protect the skin barrier.
Regularly changing pillowcases and avoiding picking at the skin can prevent further irritation or infection. Rest is also important for the body’s recovery process, which indirectly benefits skin health by supporting regeneration and reducing inflammation.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional medical advice if skin breakouts persist or worsen after recovering from an illness. A healthcare provider can assess the situation and determine if there are underlying factors contributing to the skin issues.
Signs that may warrant medical attention include severe pain or itching with the breakouts. Pus, increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around skin lesions could indicate a bacterial infection. Any unusual rashes that are widespread, blistering, or accompanied by other significant symptoms such as fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing should also prompt immediate medical evaluation.