Stress & Skin Health

It is important to recognize the interplay between stress and dermatological issues, as addressing stress-related factors is essential for long-term skin health and overall well-being in pets.

Stress plays a significant role in skin health, influencing the development and severity of dermatological conditions in companion animals. Anxiety, environmental changes, and behavioral stressors can lead to self-inflicted trauma, impaired skin barrier function, and increased susceptibility to infections.

How Stress Affects Skin Health in Pets

1. Increased Pruritus & Self-Trauma

Stress and anxiety can trigger compulsive licking, scratching, or chewing, leading to:

Lick granulomas (acral lick dermatitis)

Hot spots (moist dermatitis)

Interdigital cysts and secondary infections

2. Impaired Skin Barrier Function

Chronic stress can weaken the skin’s natural defences, making pets more susceptible to:

Increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and dry, flaky skin

Allergic flare-ups and heightened sensitivity to irritants

Opportunistic infections (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic)

3. Hormonal & Immune System Disruptions

Stress can alter cortisol levels, which may:

Suppress the immune system, delaying wound healing

Increase inflammation, exacerbating allergic skin diseases (atopic dermatitis, food allergies)

Affect sebaceous gland activity, leading to seborrhea (oily or dry skin conditions)

4. Gastrointestinal & Nutritional Impacts on Skin

Stress-induced digestive issues, such as intestinal dysbiosis and reduced nutrient absorption, can result in:

Dull, brittle fur and excessive shedding
Compromised skin hydration and elasticity
Exacerbation of inflammatory skin conditions

Managing Stress-Related Skin Conditions

1. Identifying & Addressing Underlying Stressors

Evaluate environmental stressors (new pets, moving, loud noises, separation anxiety)

Assess behavioral patterns and provide enrichment, training, and calming interventions

Consider pheromone therapy or behavioral support for anxious pets

2. Supporting the Skin Barrier & Hydration

Use moisturizing and barrier-repair products to strengthen the skin’s defenses

Incorporate omega-3 to support skin hydration and elasticity

Choose gentle, non-irritating topical treatments to reduce itching and inflammation

3. Reducing Pruritus & Self-Trauma

Implement anti-itch solutions (topical sprays, mousse, or medicated shampoos)

Address underlying allergies with appropriate dermatological treatments

Use protective measures (E-collars, bandages) to prevent excessive licking or scratching

4. Strengthening Immune & Gut Health

Support the gut-skin axis with probiotics and balanced nutrition

Address food sensitivities that may contribute to dermatological flare-ups
Monitor for endocrine imbalances (hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) that affect skin health

Product selection for Stress-Related Skin Conditions

Managing stress-related skin issues requires products that soothe, protect, and support skin health without compromising the natural skin barrier. Here are the products to keep on hand:

Dermoscent AromaCalm is a calming dermatological solution designed to support pets experiencing stress-induced skin imbalances. Formulated with soothing essential oils, AromaCalm helps reduce anxiety while promoting skin hydration and barrier function.

Dermoscent Essential 6 Spot-On is a skin-nourishing spot-on treatment enriched with essential fatty acids (omega-3 & omega-6) to help restore skin balance, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the natural skin barrier.