What Everyone’s Saying About ‘Cortisol Face’ and What It Means

Now there’s a new concern called “cortisol face” making waves on social media, especially on TikTok. Popularized by a TikTok creator, this term describes a puffy face caused by elevated cortisol levels.

It’s not just an online phenomenon; even celebrities like Amy Schumer have discussed it. Schumer recently opened up about being diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome after social media users pointed out her puffy face during a TV interview. Cushing’s syndrome occurs when your body has high levels of cortisol for an extended period.

Yet, many people think they have a “puffy” face without actually having cortisol face. The fat pads in our faces shift as we age, and some individuals simply have round and naturally beautiful faces. Experts confirm that round faces are usually not a concern and can even help maintain a youthful appearance, unlike others who rely on skincare routines to achieve a similar look.

So, what exactly is “cortisol face”? According to Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, facial swelling or looking puffy or round can occur when cortisol levels are imbalanced.

Dr. Rekha Kumar, an endocrinologist and the chief medical officer at Found, explains that “cortisol face” isn’t a medical term but has roots in a medical slang term “moon faces.” This slang originally described people with cortisol-producing tumors in their adrenal glands or pituitary. Today, the term is more commonly used to describe people who look similar due to increased inflammation rather than tumors.

Cortisol is often demonized yet it’s essential for our body’s functioning. Dr. Kumar emphasizes its importance in regulating blood pressure, managing stress, and maintaining our body’s salt-water balance. While stress and poor sleep might lead to changes that make someone think they have a cortisol problem, it doesn’t necessarily mean that cortisol is the issue.

Prolonged elevated cortisol levels can have mild but temporary negative effects. Dr. Maria Teresa Anton, an endocrinologist at Pritikin Longevity Center, notes that while cortisol is integral to our body’s response to stress and energy balance, excessive levels can be harmful. Chronically high cortisol may lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, weaken the immune system, disrupt sleep, increase blood pressure, and affect mood. It can also heighten the risk for serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and anxiety disorders.

Some common causes of elevated cortisol include chronic stress, corticosteroids, certain medications, Cushing’s syndrome, a high-sugar diet, over-exercising, and poor sleep.

Symptoms of high cortisol levels, aside from “cortisol face,” can include acne, anxiety, easy bruising, high blood pressure, inflammation, insomnia, irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, muscle weakness and atrophy, osteoporosis, rosacea, stretch marks, thinning skin, weakened immune system, and weight gain, especially around the abdomen or face.

Elevated cortisol levels can also decrease collagen production, potentially accelerating skin aging.

If you think you might have “cortisol face,” it can be managed and treated. Some effective strategies include regular exercise (particularly low-impact activities), maintaining a healthy diet, consistent sleep routines, stress management, weight management, mindfulness practices, and reducing sodium and sugar intake.

Nonetheless, the goal shouldn’t necessarily be to lower cortisol levels indiscriminately. Dr. Kumar advises focusing on regulating cortisol with healthy circadian rhythms, stress management activities, and body weight control. She emphasizes that “lowering your cortisol” isn’t the sole solution, despite what social media might suggest. Speak with your doctor to discuss any concerns, but remember that balancing your overall lifestyle plays a key role.

Related: “I’m a Celebrity Dermatologist and This Is the One Thing I Never, Ever Do When It Comes to My Skin”

Sources

Source: Particle News, TikTok, Found, Pritikin Longevity Center