Do you have Cortisol Face?

By Lori Caruso 

Cortisol levels can play major role in the quality of your daily life. One indication of cortisol imbalance may be staring at you every day in the mirror.  

Often referred to as the “stress hormone” cortisol is a steroid hormone made by your adrenal glands. Cortisol not only helps your body manage stress, but it also regulates metabolism, blood sugar, and inflammation while controlling the sleep and wake cycles. 

Cortisol levels can be both high or low and it’s important to get evaluated. A popular method of testing is with saliva test that tracks levels at specific times throughout the day. Blood and urine tests are other options as well. 

Your face, however, may be one of the first places that alert you to cortisol imbalances. 

Starting with the classic “moon face” is characterized by extreme puffiness and accumulation of fat in cheeks and jawline. Under-eye puffiness is often seen as a sign of chronic fatigue. This is due to lack of sleep as cortisol plays a critical role in creating a solid night’s sleep. 

Another indicator can be acne. If you have never been affected by acne, but suddenly begin to have issues with it, it could be time to get your cortisol checked. On a separate note, if you are suddenly experiencing acne in the chin and jowl area and have hair growth in that area, it’s time to get both your hormones reviewed as well as begin laser hair removal treatments. Once the inflammation form the hair disruption is alleviated, the acne always resolves itself. 

 Redness and facial flushing can also be an indicator or cortisol imbalance. Note: one uncomplicated way to begin to control redness and flushing is to ensure your skin is properly hydrated. Our body naturally produces ceramides to keep our skin’s natural moisturizing factor intact. Between ages thirty and forty the production of cortisol diminishes by as much as forty percent. This leaves your skin unable to maintain surface hydration. When this happens, our immunes system is triggered and blood rushes to the surface, causing unwanted flushing.  

That is why creating and maintaining a healthy skin barrier is vital. Using moisturizers with ceramides in the ingredients will help to lock in and hold onto moisture more effectively. Think of ceramides as the mortar that holds bricks together. That mortar retains moisture from escaping environmentally, creating a stronger barrier of defense for your skin. 

Beyond changes you may be experiencing in your face; here are some of the other symptoms of cortisol imbalance. 
  • Weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area 
  • Fatigue and muscle weakness 
  • Insomnia 
  • Anxiety 
  • High Blood Pressure 
  • Brain Fog 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Thirst 
  • Bloat
  • Salt Cravings 
For mild cases lifestyle changes such as less screen time, exercise, implementing grains, fruits and vegetables in the diet and limiting caffeine, sugar and saturated fats, and perhaps adding supplements rich in Omega 3s, vitamins B and D as well as phosphatidylserine ( a special type of fat called phospholipid that acts as a building block for the outer barrier of cell membranes giving structure and flexibility, particularly in the brain). 

Prioritizing quality sleep can be effectively supported by practicing yoga, reducing screen exposure, consuming chamomile tea, and cultivating an environment that promotes tranquility. These approaches create optimal conditions for restorative rest. 

In more profound cases of cortisol imbalance like Addison; s Disease and Cushing’s Disease, medical help in needed. 

Let’s face it, whether it is seen in the mirror or felt in other areas of the body, cortisol is key player in wellbeing and should not be ignored. Ask your provider for the simple at home saliva test that just might reveal answers to some unwanted health issues.