Do You Really Suffer From Cortisol Face?

Cortisol Face

Cortisol face has become a buzzword. But what is cortisol face, really?

In this video, a dermatologist dives into this trending topic, debunking myths and clarifying the medical reality behind true “moon face”—a facial change caused by elevated cortisol levels.

The video explains the difference between genuine cortisol-related symptoms and common stress-related skin issues

It offers science-backed insights on what really happens when cortisol levels are high and how stress affects our skin.

Summary of the video:

What “Cortisol Face” Actually Is:

The term “cortisol face” is trending on TikTok, but the creator explains that most people do not actually suffer from this condition. True “moon face” occurs when cortisol levels are abnormally high, causing fat accumulation and swelling in the face, known as Cushing’s syndrome. Named after Dr. Harvey Cushing, who first identified it, Cushing’s can occur due to pituitary tumors and leads to excessive cortisol production.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome:

Cushing’s syndrome presents a range of symptoms beyond facial fat. Individuals may experience fat buildup on the upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”), severe muscle weakness, osteoporosis, purple stretch marks, elevated liver enzymes, high blood sugar, facial hair growth (hypertrichosis), and sometimes dangerously low potassium levels. These symptoms are indicative of a pathological state requiring immediate medical attention.

Types of Cushing’s Syndrome:

Cushing’s can be classified into two types:

  • Exogenous Cushing’s: Caused by external factors, primarily from prolonged or excessive use of glucocorticoid medications (like prednisone, budesonide, or triamcinolone) commonly prescribed for asthma, skin conditions, or autoimmune diseases. Long-term use of these steroids can lead to symptoms resembling Cushing’s, especially when not monitored properly.
  • Endogenous Cushing’s: This form arises internally, typically due to pituitary or adrenal gland tumors that cause the body to produce too much cortisol. In rare cases, “ectopic” sources (like tumors in the lung or pancreas) can also release cortisol.
See also  Non Surgical Facelift With ELLACOR, Before and After

Case Study – Risks of Unmonitored Steroid Use:

The video shares a cautionary case report about a child who developed “moon face” after an unmonitored use of a powerful steroid ointment. The child’s mother was given a strong steroid ointment for a diaper rash, which she applied for seven months.

Because it was in an ointment form under a diaper, the steroid’s potency and the child’s young age made the situation even riskier, leading to signs of Cushing’s. Luckily, stopping the medication reversed the symptoms, but the example underscores the importance of using corticosteroids carefully and under medical supervision.

Misinterpretations and the Role of Stress:

While stress can lead to temporary increases in cortisol, the creator emphasizes that these spikes are not enough to cause true “moon face.” Instead, stress-related skin issues—like puffiness, acne, and premature wrinkles—are often due to poor diet, lack of sleep, or increased salt and alcohol intake rather than true cortisol imbalance.

Impact of Chronic Stress on Skin Health:

Stress can disrupt skin health by compromising immune function, slowing healing, increasing oil production, and impairing collagen production, which can accelerate aging. Chronic stress can also exacerbate conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema. Poor sleep, often linked to stress, further compromises skin health by interrupting the body’s natural recovery processes.

Practical Tips for Managing Stress and Skin Health:

The creator suggests establishing boundaries to avoid overextending oneself, prioritizing sleep, following a balanced diet, and exercising regularly as key practices to reduce stress’s negative impact on skin. Regular exercise, even something simple like a daily walk, can help manage stress and improve skin health.

See also  Baking Soda Benefits For Skin

Avoiding Scams:

Finally, the creator warns against falling for supplements or quick fixes claiming to cure “cortisol face.” Most people do not have Cushing’s syndrome, and supplements won’t address the root causes if it does occur. She encourages viewers to be wary of such claims and emphasize that proper treatment for Cushing’s requires medical attention.

*Summary created by AI and edited by author

Author

  • gloria

    Gloria is a top-performing fashion designer with more than eight years of experience in developing fashion concepts.

    View all posts