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Why the effects of stress could be skin deep

Why the effects of stress could be skin deep

A fascinating study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science explored gender-linked differences in human skin. Beyond the usual distinctions between men and women – things like hair, sweat, oil, thickness and pH – one finding stood out.

Men appear to be more prone to bacterial and viral infections and, more importantly, are at higher risk of developing skin cancer. The study reported that squamous cell carcinomas were roughly twice as common in older men, while the prevalence of melanoma was 1.72% in men compared with 1.22% in women.

That might not sound dramatic, but in real terms, it means men are around 41% more likely to develop melanoma. Other data tells the same story: men are twice as likely to die from skin cancer as women, and these trends hold true across the UK, the US and northern Europe.

Why the difference?

One theory points towards stress.

Skin is the body’s largest organ and its first line of defence against the outside world. It’s packed with immune cells that respond to threats like bacteria, viruses and UV radiation. But those defence systems can be weakened by stress and sunlight alike.

Research suggests that psychological stress, as well as UV exposure, can suppress the immune responses in the skin. In simple terms, stress might be making it harder for the body to defend itself. Some studies have also shown that men have higher levels of cortisol – the hormone that helps the body manage stress – which could mean their immune systems are more likely to take a hit when stress and UV combine.

What this means for men

Whatever the reason, the outcome is clear: men need to take skin protection seriously. UV levels drop sharply in winter but don’t disappear completely. UVA rays can still reach your skin through thin cloud and glass, especially during daylight hours. That exposure is much weaker than in summer, but keeping a simple daily SPF habit through the colder months helps build long-term protection and healthier skin for life.

A small daily habit makes a huge difference. Applying SPF each morning, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade when possible all help keep the skin’s defences strong for life.

And when winter flu strikes, maybe show the men in your life a little sympathy too. They’re brave, but occasionally fragile creatures.