Skin problems such as acne, pigmentation, premature ageing, and hair fall are increasingly being reported across the 25-65 age group. While many patients invest heavily in skincare products, they often ignore the deeper lifestyle factors that directly influence skin health.
Irregular sleep patterns, high stress levels, unhealthy eating habits, prolonged screen exposure, and rising pollution are silently damaging the skin from within. Hence, it is the need of the hour to pay attention to the skin and keep it glowing, healthy, and happy.
Skin problems are rapidly rising due to unhealthy lifestyle habits such as poor sleep, high stress, unhealthy diets, and excessive screen time. “These factors disrupt the skin’s natural repair process and weaken its protective barrier. As a result, issues like acne, pigmentation, premature ageing, are becoming increasingly common. Stress is one of the biggest contributors to skin problems today. Increased cortisol levels due to mental pressure and poor work-life balance can trigger acne breakouts, worsen eczema and psoriasis, , and slow down wound healing. Poor sleep further aggravates these issues by reducing collagen production and weakening the skin barrier. Diet also plays a crucial role. High intake of processed foods, sugar, and junk food can lead to inflammation, dull skin, and frequent breakouts, while a lack of hydration makes the skin dry and sensitive. In addition, prolonged exposure to blue light from mobile phones and laptops can worsen pigmentation and accelerate premature ageing,” said Dr Shareefa Isa Chause, dermatologist, Mumbai.
Dr Chause further added, “Nearly 50 per cent of people between the ages of 25 – 65 are experiencing skin problems linked to irregular sleep patterns, high stress levels, unhealthy eating habits, prolonged screen exposure, and increasing pollution. Monthly, 5 out of every 10 patients now visit clinics with concerns such as acne, pigmentation, dull skin, dryness, premature ageing, and increased hair fall. These lifestyle-related issues are becoming more common and are affecting skin health across all age groups. Sustainable skin improvement is only possible when skincare is combined with healthy routines, stress management, proper sleep, and mindful screen use.”
“Simple lifestyle tips for healthier skin include maintaining regular sleep timings and aiming for 7–8 hours of rest, managing stress through exercise, yoga, or meditation, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, reducing screen time and using blue light protection when possible, and cleaning skin properly after pollution exposure. Use products recommended by the doctor only. With the rise in lifestyle-related skin concerns, there has also been an increased demand for cosmetic procedures such as laser treatments, hydrafacials, chemical peels, and skin rejuvenation therapies. These procedures help manage pigmentation, acne marks, dullness, and early signs of ageing. So, consult the expert who will guide you regarding these procedures,” said Dr Chause.
“Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as irregular sleep, chronic stress, poor diet, excessive screen time, and pollution exposure are quietly driving a sharp rise in skin problems. Today, nearly 3 out of every 10 patients aged 25-65 in a month report concerns like acne, pigmentation, skin dryness, dullness, and early ageing. While treatments like medical facials and lasers help manage these issues, long-term skin health depends on adequate sleep, stress control, balanced nutrition, hydration, and limiting screen exposure. Addressing the root cause is just as important as treating the visible symptoms. So, just like you take care of your eyes, heart, and lungs, pay attention to your skin right away,” concluded Dr Surbhi Deshpande, dermatologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Ghatkopar West.