What Is ‘Cortisol Face’? What You Need to Know About This TikTok Trend

The AHA! Team — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 05:29:38 +0000

Joe Boland via Dr. Axe – “Cortisol face” is a term that’s gaining traction in the wellness world, particularly taking off on the social media platform TikTok, especially as more people recognize the visible impacts of stress on physical appearance. It describes facial puffiness or bloating potentially linked to elevated levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress can be nearly unavoidable, understanding cortisol face can help identify if lifestyle changes are needed to maintain both mental and physical well-being. This article dives in to what cortisol face is, its causes, how it differs from moon face and tips to manage it. What is cortisol face? Cortisol face refers to facial swelling or puffiness that can occur when cortisol levels are elevated for extended periods. It’s not an official diagnosis, and what many people may think is cortisol face may actually be a different medical issue, such as Cushing’s syndrome. However, stress and skin health are most definitely linked, as research has shown over and over again. Cortisol plays an essential role in managing stress Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays an essential role in managing stress, metabolism, inflammation and immune response. However, when stress becomes chronic, excess cortisol can cause a range of symptoms, including water retention and inflammation that can contribute to facial puffiness. People with cortisol face often notice swelling around the cheeks and jawline, and in severe cases, it can extend to the entire face. How common is it? Cortisol face isn’t necessarily common, but it may be more prevalent among individuals dealing with chronic stress, poor sleep or high workloads, all of which can elevate cortisol levels. High cortisol is also observed in individuals with specific medical conditions, such as Cushing’s syndrome, where the body overproduces cortisol. While not everyone with high cortisol will experience facial puffiness, those who are more prone to fluid retention or inflammation might be more likely to develop this symptom. Puffy skin and stress When stress becomes chronic, it triggers prolonged cortisol production. Elevated cortisol levels can affect the body in various ways, including: Fluid retention: Cortisol causes the body to retain sodium and excrete potassium, leading to water retention. Inflammation: Chronic cortisol production can exacerbate inflammation, affecting skin and blood vessels. Reduced collagen production: Cortisol can inhibit collagen synthesis, which may lead to less elastic skin and more noticeable swelling. As a result, chronic stress doesn’t just impact internal health — it can lead to visible signs of fatigue and stress on the skin. This link between stress and skin issues has been extensively studied, and puffy skin is one of the many external indicators that stress levels might be affecting physical health. Cortisol face vs. moon face While cortisol face and moon face may sound similar — and do share similar symptoms — they differ in underlying causes and characteristics. Cortisol face refers specifically to puffiness in the face due to elevated cortisol, typically related to stress. It can also be influenced by poor diet, lack of sleep or lifestyle factors. Moon face is condition where the face appears round and swollen, typically due to prolonged use of corticosteroids or conditions like Cushing’s syndrome. Moon face is a hallmark symptom of Cushing’s syndrome, where excessive cortisol leads to more dramatic facial swelling and roundness. While cortisol face can often be managed with lifestyle changes, moon face may require medical intervention if linked to hormonal disorders or medication side effects. Other causes Apart from elevated cortisol, other factors can contribute to facial puffiness, including: High-sodium diet: Excess sodium leads to water retention, especially around the face. Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates the body, causing it to retain water and resulting in facial puffiness. Allergies: Allergic reactions, especially those affecting the sinuses, can lead to temporary facial swelling. Sleep deprivation: Poor sleep can exacerbate inflammation and fluid retention, leading to puffy skin. Menstrual cycle: Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes lead to fluid retention and facial swelling. Understanding the cause of puffiness is essential to managing and preventing it, especially if cortisol face seems to be part of a broader set of symptoms. How to get rid of cortisol face Reducing cortisol levels and adopting lifestyle habits to manage stress can help alleviate cortisol face. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Reduce stress Engage in mindfulness, meditation or yoga to reduce daily stress. Even small, daily stress management practices can help lower cortisol levels. 2. Optimize sleep Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep is linked to higher cortisol levels, which can worsen facial puffiness. 3. Limit high-sodium foods Reducing salt in the diet can minimize water retention. 4. Stay hydrated Drinking water throughout the day can help the body release retained fluid, reducing puffiness. 5. Exercise regularly Physical activity can help lower cortisol levels, reduce inflammation and improve circulation. 6. Anti-inflammatory diet Foods high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins can help reduce inflammation and cortisol levels. Some people may also find relief through topical treatments, like cold compresses, facial rollers or certain anti-inflammatory skin care products, although these do not address the root cause of cortisol face. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help. Conclusion Cortisol face serves as a visible reminder of the connection between stress and physical health. While it can be distressing, understanding the signs and causes empowers you to manage stress and improve your overall well-being. Reducing cortisol levels through lifestyle adjustments, proper hydration, a balanced diet and regular sleep can go a long way in reducing puffiness and promoting healthier skin. Addressing cortisol face may also help prevent more serious health issues linked to chronic stress, making it beneficial to focus on these changes for both appearance and health. To read the original article click here.

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12 Science-Backed Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices with POWERFUL Health Benefits

AHA Publisher — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 08:00:02 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India and is more than 3,000 years old. It is an all-natural modality, using herbs and spices to prevent diseases and health conditions from developing in the first place. By taking a whole-person approach, it focuses on balancing mind, body, and spirit for better health. In fact, many Ayurvedic herbs have been studied extensively and now have solid scientific backing as effective remedies for many health conditions. Ayurvedic Herbs Can Improve Your Health in Multiple Ways Ashwagandha Several studies have shown that ashwagandha promotes healthy cortisol levels and normal inflammatory processes that occur in response to stress. Cortisol is called the “stress hormone.” By supporting a healthy stress response, ashwagandha can help lower levels of anxiety and improve sleep quality for people who suffer from anxiety and stress. Bitter Melon Bitter melon supports normal blood sugar levels and boosts insulin secretion, which is the hormone that stabilizes blood sugar levels. According to research, this tropical vine is not only a good remedy for blood sugar problems, but it is also packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Boswellia This herb, also called Indian frankincense, is a potent anti-inflammatory, but research has also shown that it is very effective for reducing pain. Studies also show that Boswellia improves range of motion and mobility, especially in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis patients. It also helps prevent gingivitis and oral infections. Brahmi Studies have found that Brahmi can improve memory, learning rates, information processing, and attention. It is also effective in treating ADHD symptoms such as restlessness, lack of self-control, and impulsivity. Cardamom This “queen of spices” has powerful scientific data recognizing it for its ability to maintain normal blood pressure. Besides supporting blood pressure, inhaling the essential oil also helps to boost oxygen uptake in the lungs during a strenuous activity like exercise. Cumin Studies have shown that this earthy spice provides many health benefits, including boosting digestive enzyme activity. It promotes faster digestion by speeding the release of bile in the liver. In addition, cumin also helps ease fat digestion and relieves symptoms of IBS such as bloating and abdominal pain. Gotu Kola Also called the “herb of longevity,” gotu kola is very effective at relieving anxiety symptoms. According to one study, it also reduced stress and depression when subjects took gotu kola instead of antidepressants for 60 days. Licorice Root Licorice root has several healing properties, and there are plenty of studies to back it up. For example, it reduces inflammation and helps to protect the body from bacteria and viruses. It is also beneficial when dealing with upper respiratory infections. Triphala (amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki) The Ayurvedic remedy triphala is a combination of three medicinal fruits: haritaki, bibhitaki, and amla. This mixture is often used to ease constipation and decrease inflammation that is caused by arthritis. Studies have also shown that it limits the growth of certain cancer cells and may even prevent them. Turmeric Turmeric is a well-known spice and herbal remedy that is one of the rare substances embraced by practitioners of Western medicine. This is because of the abundance of scientific support that shows its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory. In fact, it has been shown to be just as effective as some drugs used to reduce inflammation – but without the unpleasant side effects. Incorporate Natural Remedies Into Your Lifestyle for Their Mighty Benefits Many natural remedies work just as well as conventional drugs but don’t have harmful or unpleasant side effects. However, before beginning a new supplement routine, including herbal remedies or Ayurvedic medicine, talk to your healthcare provider to ensure you won’t encounter any allergic reactions or drug interactions. The beauty of these natural treatments is that they can be taken in supplement form, but many can be made into teas or used to flavor your favorite foods. Their versatility makes it easy to incorporate them into your lifestyle. Sources for this article include: Herbs.News PhytoPharmaJournal.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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cortisol levels Archives - Amazing Health Advances

What Is ‘Cortisol Face’? What You Need to Know About This TikTok Trend

12 Science-Backed Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices with POWERFUL Health Benefits