From “cortisol face” to other skin concerns, TikTok has made it common to see skincare issues trending. “Cortisol face” refers to a puffy, round face often attributed to high cortisol levels caused by stress. But what exactly causes this appearance, and can stress alone make your face look this way? Here’s a breakdown of how cortisol affects skin, what “cortisol face” really is, and how to keep your skin radiant, even during stressful times.
Understanding "Cortisol Face" and How It Affects Your Skin
Cortisol face, sometimes called “moon face,” describes a puffy, swollen appearance in the face, caused by fluid retention or an increase in fatty tissue. Cortisol is a hormone that rises in response to stress, and when it stays elevated, it can weaken the skin’s elasticity and cause it to look dull and tired. The face can look puffier, particularly around the eyes, and more prone to breakouts or inflammation.
Though significant changes in facial shape usually result from more extreme cortisol elevations, such as those seen with long-term steroid use or specific medical conditions, lower but sustained cortisol levels can still lead to visible changes. Even though everyday stress doesn’t generally cause enough cortisol for extreme swelling, the body’s response to chronic stress can lead to subtle shifts, like dullness, fine lines, and loss of skin firmness.
How to Spot the Signs of Cortisol-Related Skin Stress
Many people might first notice signs of skin stress as persistent dullness, dryness, or new breakouts. If skin sensitivity, puffiness, or changes in texture are occurring alongside a high-stress period, it’s possible that stress and cortisol are affecting skin health. In some cases, other factors like a high-sodium diet, dehydration, lack of sleep, or stress-induced habits (such as eating more processed foods) can contribute to facial puffiness, though these effects are typically less extreme than true “moon face.”
If you suspect that high cortisol levels could be affecting your skin, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. Tests that measure cortisol can confirm whether stress is indeed taking a toll on your skin. But even without medical testing, focusing on managing stress can be a proactive step toward improving skin health.
How to Manage "Cortisol Face" and Skin Under Stress
Fortunately, there are actionable ways to manage the skin impact of cortisol, reduce puffiness, and keep your complexion glowing. Here’s how to get started:
1. Develop a Gentle, Stress-Reducing Skincare Routine
When the skin is under stress, using gentle, hydrating products is key. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants are essential to help reduce dryness and puffiness while boosting moisture. A collagen-supporting routine with products that contain peptides and niacinamide can also improve skin texture and firmness. A mild exfoliant a few times per week helps keep the complexion smooth and reduce dullness, while anti-inflammatory ingredients are beneficial for calming any redness.
2. Consider In-Office Treatments for Skin Recovery
For those facing more prominent signs of aging or dullness due to stress, in-office treatments like microneedling or laser therapy can help stimulate collagen production, helping to lift and firm the skin. These treatments can help combat some of the more visible signs of cortisol damage and are an option if lifestyle changes alone don’t bring the desired results.
3. Prioritize Hydration and a Balanced Diet
While no diet specifically targets “cortisol face,” limiting salt can help reduce facial puffiness from water retention. Stress eating often leads to foods high in sodium and sugar, which may increase water retention and puffiness, so choosing balanced, nutrient-rich meals with whole foods and staying hydrated can help keep puffiness at bay.
4. Prioritize Quality Sleep for Optimal Skin Repair
Sleep plays a critical role in managing cortisol and allowing skin to repair itself. During sleep, the skin’s cells regenerate, which is key for maintaining a youthful and radiant complexion. Aim for seven to nine hours each night to give your skin time to repair itself and stay firm and bright. Chronic lack of sleep can lead to inflammation and accelerate signs of aging, such as fine lines and loss of firmness.
5. Exercise Regularly to Lower Cortisol and Improve Skin Health
Physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce cortisol and manage stress. However, overdoing intense workouts can have the opposite effect and actually increase cortisol. Instead, focus on enjoyable, moderate activities like yoga, dancing, or brisk walking to keep cortisol in check and manage stress without overwhelming the body.
Cortisol, Stress, and Skin Health: The Takeaway
While “cortisol face” is not a clinical diagnosis, the impact of stress on skin health is real. Chronically elevated cortisol levels can result in puffiness, dullness, and signs of premature aging. If stress is affecting your skin, the good news is that steps like a thoughtful skincare routine, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and quality sleep can all make a meaningful difference. By managing stress and keeping cortisol in check, you can support your skin’s natural glow and resilience.
Addressing the root causes of stress and sticking to a solid skincare routine can help you manage and improve any stress-related skin changes. Incorporating calming practices, mindful eating, and hydrating skincare are great ways to start supporting your skin, body, and mind.
