#Japan #Tokyo #Skin Health #Icy Clinic #Holiday Skin

The Impact of Year-End Stress on Skin Health

As we approach the end of the year, many of us experience a mixture of relief and excitement. However, this season can bring unexpected challenges for our skin. A recent survey conducted by the Icy Clinic, a network of dermatology and aesthetic surgery clinics in Tokyo, sheds light on how the end-of-year transitions can impact skin health, leading to what has been referred to as 'disrupted lifestyle skin'.

The Surprise Trouble After Work

While it’s well-known that stress and busyness during work hours can lead to skin issues, the survey revealed that a significant portion of individuals experience increased skin problems after their work duties wrap up. Around 68% of respondents indicated that they experienced skin troubles during the year-end holiday period, attributed to a breakdown in their regular routines.

Survey Breakdown

The survey included responses from 300 individuals aged between 20 and 50 across Japan, conducted from December 1 to December 10, 2025, using an online questionnaire method. From this data, key findings emerged:

• - 28.7% noted they experience skin issues every year following work’s end, while 39.3% reported occasional problems.

Changes Post Work Closure

The most commonly reported change in routine post-work was irregular sleep patterns, reported by 73.2% of those who noticed skin changes. Other notable changes included:

• - 67.4% indicated a disruption in meal times.
• - 54.8% admitted to neglecting their skincare routines.

These alterations in daily habits can quickly lead to detrimental effects on skin health, with a vast majority of respondents acknowledging the drop in their skin condition after the workload ceased.

The Leading Skin Issues

When looking at specific skin problems experienced during the holiday period, the survey highlighted:

• - A staggering 78.4% reported issues with dryness and flakiness.
• - 61.3% experienced breakouts, while 52.7% saw a dullness in their complexion.

These findings indicate that the end-of-year stress rather than relaxation can be harmful, as the body struggles to adapt to the sudden transition.

Understanding the Causes

Among the causes cited for skin troubles, 82.1% believed sleep irregularities contributed the most, followed by:

• - 71.6% noting dietary disruptions.
• - 63.9% recognizing a deficiency in skincare practices.

This suggests that the liberation from work stress can often lead to poor lifestyle choices that exacerbate skin conditions.

Actions Taken to Combat Skin Issues

Despite the recognized skin problems during this time, about 41.2% of respondents reported that they did nothing in particular to prevent or treat these skin issues. Other methods included:

• - 38.4% focused on moisture care extensively.
• - 29.7% attempted to maintain more regular daily routines.

There appears to be a clear acknowledgment of the need for care, but a lack of action amongst many.

Summary of Findings

The research shows that nearly 70% of respondents experience skin troubles after their work ends. Common factors contributing to this issue include irregular sleep patterns, dietary disruptions, and neglecting skincare.

It’s intriguing to note that while the work-related stress diminishes, the subsequent relaxation can trigger a series of skin-related complications. As such, it’s crucial to maintain some semblance of regularity in daily routines during the holiday period to mitigate these risks.

Expert Opinion

Dr. Kota Takakuwa from Icy Clinic remarks on the findings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining skincare practices, even during the festive period. He notes that creating an environment where one can uphold a consistent routine can be very beneficial for skin health. Individuals should also seek professional advice promptly when noticing skin abnormalities, as many conditions are treatable with timely interventions.

Addressing Year-End Skin Problems

For those struggling with holiday skin problems — whether it’s dryness, increased breakouts, or other issues — consider consulting with Icy Clinic. Their specialized professionals can tailor a skincare regimen to suit each individual's unique needs and concerns. With multiple convenient locations in Tokyo, expert care is always within reach.