Latest news with #cortisolface
Vogue Arabia
28-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue Arabia
Stressed and it Shows? Here's How You Deal with Cortisol Face
Waking up to stubborn puffiness, baggy under-eyes and dull skin even after a full eight hours of sleep? If your arsenal of eye creams and ice globes aren't offering a fix, the culprit might run deeper than your skincare routine. Increasingly, these symptoms are being associated with a condition known in modern beauty lexicon as 'cortisol face'—a visible manifestation of internal stress. Cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, metabolism, and our internal rhythm. While occasional spikes are a normal byproduct of modern life, the trouble begins when cortisol levels stay elevated for extended durations. Whether triggered by chronic stress, poor sleep, or lifestyle imbalances, the repercussions can show up on your face in unmistakable ways: persistent puffiness, fluid retention, increased inflammation, and a kind of dullness that no amount of skincare can fix. In severe cases, the swelling can become so pronounced that the facial contours appear noticeably rounder, even moon-like. When these changes linger long after the stressor has passed, it might be time to pay attention to what your skin is telling you. What does cortisol do to your skin? When cortisol levels remain elevated, our skin takes the first hit. 'In the short term, high cortisol can overstimulate oil glands, leading to clogged pores and breakouts,' confirms Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder of Yavana Skin and Hair Clinic. 'It also disrupts the skin's protective barrier, resulting in redness, sensitivity, dehydration—you may see a dull complexion or puffiness due to fluid retention.' But the effects don't stop just there. 'Prolonged exposure to high cortisol can speed up visible signs of ageing by breaking down collagen and elastin—the structural proteins that keep skin firm and smooth,' explains Dr Agarwal. Over time, this can lead to fine lines, sagging, and thinning skin. It also slows down healing leaving it more prone to flare-ups and irritation. A 2021 Harvard study discusses how stress and skin are in constant dialogue: stress triggers cortisol, which disrupts the skin barrier, worsening certain conditions like acne or eczema. In turn, the inflamed skin sends distress signals back to the brain, further cementing the stress response. How does one break out of the loop? With skincare and stress-regulating rituals that restore balance from the inside out. Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, founder of the neurocosmetics brand Justhuman, came to this understanding during a severe autoimmune flare-up. Her skin became hypersensitive, and prone to breakouts—the root cause wasn't just hormonal or dietary, but also emotional. 'Stress-related skin issues start from within, caused by elevated cortisol or imbalances. So, to treat it, one has to think in terms of biofeedback, using ingredients that not only treat skin but also modulate neuroinflammation and rebalance the skin's sensory perception.' A routine reset While topical treatments can support the skin barrier, the real metamorphosis comes from managing stress at its source. 'Addressing 'cortisol face' is about 30% skincare and 70% lifestyle,' confirms Dr. Agarwal. For this, the expert recommends building a consistent routine that encourages mindfulness. 'Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep, turning in before midnight. Gentle, grounding practices like meditation, yoga and breathing exercises go a long way in calming the stress response too.' Dr. Agarwal recommends low-impact activities—think walking, stretching, or swimming—that don't overstimulate the nervous system. Soothing skincare When treating 'cortisol skin', the focus should be on restoring and strengthening the skin barrier. Choose ingredients that soothe, like ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and niacinamide. 'These help reduce inflammation while reinforcing the skin's natural defences,' explains Dr. Agarwal, who also recommends layering in antioxidants such as vitamin C or ferulic acid to counteract oxidative stress. Keep your skincare routine minimal and restorative: Cleanse with a mild, non-foaming cleanser Follow with a calming serum Seal in hydration with a pH-balanced moisturiser
Vogue
23-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue
10 Foods That Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels
If you spend a lot of time on TikTok, then you might be familiar with the phrase 'cortisol face' or the 'cortisol cocktail.' Characterized by puffiness and swelling of the face and neck, cortisol face has become a much-buzzed-about (and maligned) term. Cortisol—known as the 'stress hormone'—is produced by the adrenal glands as a response to stressful or dangerous situations. Essential for our survival, it regulates immune response, blood sugar, and blood pressure. In excess, though, cortisol can affect our lymphatic system and cause puffiness in the eyes, cheeks, and jaw. While scientific research into the concept of cortisol face is lacking, anecdotal evidence abounds. However, experts are keen to stress that signs of 'cortisol face' could actually be related to taking steroids, or to Cushing's syndrome—a (very) rare condition that occurs when the body produces too much cortisol. Having a high level of cortisol for extended periods of time is not good for your health. In ideal circumstances, the body naturally lowers cortisol levels when the stress or 'threat' has passed, but if stress persists for a long time, high cortisol levels can keep the body in a 'fight or flight' state. This can inhibit the immune system and alter the gut microbiome, making us vulnerable to inflammation and infection, as well as potentially causing fatigue, irritability, headaches, brain fog, acne, insomnia, weight gain, and even anxiety and depression. Mitigating all of the stress in our lives is largely impossible. However, there are ways to manage it—be that through mindfulness, meditation, exercise, therapy, or just regular, good-quality sleep. Similarly, a healthy, balanced diet that's low in refined sugars, saturated fats, excess alcohol, and caffeine—all things that can raise cortisol—but rich in adequate omega-3, magnesium, fiber, and antioxidants, can help counteract cortisol. Here are the best foods to include in your diet if tackling stress is your main concern. 1. Leafy greens Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, arugula, and kale are chock-full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also rich in folate, which can help to regulate cortisol levels and promote a healthy gut microbiome, essential for the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, another cortisol mitigator. 2. Bitter chocolate It's not new that small amounts of dark chocolate (it needs to contain at least 70% cocoa) is good for you. Rich in antioxidants, it's healthier than milk or white alternatives. Less well known is the fact that the flavonoids in cocoa can help mitigate the stress response from the adrenal glands and the subsequent release of cortisol. Plus, chocolate can help put you in a better mood. 3. Green tea Rich in a category of antioxidant polyphenols called catechins and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation, green tea is soothing and energizing at the same time, making it the ideal drink to sip when you're stressed out. Consume it in loose leaf, tea bag, or matcha form. It can also be added to smoothies and desserts. 4. Salmon Perhaps the ultimate skin-friendly food, salmon (like other types of fish rich in healthy fats, like sardines and mackerel), can help regulate cortisol levels, thanks to its anti-inflammatory omega-3 content. In fact, some studies have found that fish oil can counteract adrenal gland activation in stressful situations. 5. Avocado Another skin-loving food, avocado contains significant amounts of potassium, as well as magnesium, an anti-stress mineral that promotes sleep and muscle relaxation by helping to counteract cortisol. Pair it with a boiled or poached egg on toast for a balanced breakfast. 6. Legumes Chickpeas, beans, and fava beans, as well as lentils and peas, are all excellent sources of fiber that support gut health and regulate blood sugar. In addition, they are rich in B vitamins and magnesium, both of which contribute to the healthy function of the nervous system. 7. Berries Blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, and the like are tiny powerhouses of free radical-fighting antioxidants. Because of this, they reduce oxidative stress and cortisol levels. Add berries to smoothies and yogurt, or eat them with a handful of almonds and walnuts. 8. Nuts Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, and Brazil nuts all have anti-stress properties, thanks to their combination of good fats, magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Add them to salads and pasta dishes, or keep a stash handy to snack on between meals. 9. Eggs In addition to being an outstanding source of quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs contain choline, an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in brain health and helps to reduce stress and anxiety by improving emotional well-being. Eating a protein-rich, egg-based breakfast in the morning can be an easy way to stay full and satisfied until lunch. 10. Chia seeds Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s, chia seeds help to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. Make chia seed pudding with dairy or non-dairy milk, add them to smoothies, or create an easy chocolate mousse by soaking them in almond milk and then blending them with pure cocoa, with a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
Vogue Arabia
13-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue Arabia
10 Foods That Naturally Lower Cortisol Levels
If you spend a lot of time on TikTok, then you'll be familiar with the phrase 'cortisol face'. Characterised by puffiness and swelling of the face and neck, cortisol face has become a much bandied-about term. Cortisol – known as the 'stress hormone' – is produced by the adrenal glands as a response to stressful or dangerous situations. Essential for our survival, it regulates immune response, blood sugar and blood pressure. In excess, though, it can affect our lymphatic system and cause puffiness in the eyes, cheeks and jaw. While scientific research into the concept of cortisol face is lacking, anecdotal evidence abounds. However, experts are keen to stress that signs of 'cortisol face' could actually be related to taking steroids, or to Cushing's syndrome – a (very) rare condition that occurs when the body produces too much cortisol. Too much cortisol for too long is not good for anyone's health. In ideal circumstances, the body naturally lowers cortisol levels when the stress or 'threat' has passed, but if stress persists for a long time, high cortisol levels can keep the body in a 'fight or flight' state. This can inhibit the immune system and alter the gut microbiome, making us vulnerable to inflammation and infection, as well as potentially causing fatigue, irritability, headaches, brain fog, acne, insomnia, weight gain and even anxiety and depression. Mitigating all of the stress in our lives is largely impossible. However, there are ways to manage it – be that through mindfulness, meditation, pranayama, yoga, moderate exercise or just regular, good-quality sleep. Similarly, a healthy, balanced diet that's low in refined sugars, saturated fats, excess alcohol and caffeine – all things that can raise cortisol – but rich in adequate omega-3, magnesium, fibre and antioxidants, can help counteract cortisol. Here are the best foods to include in your diet if tackling stress is your main concern. 1. Leafy greens Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, arugula and kale are chock-full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They are also rich in folate, which can help to regulate cortisol levels and promote a healthy gut microbiome, essential for the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, another cortisol mitigator. 2. Bitter chocolate It's not news that small amounts of dark chocolate – containing at least 70% cocoa – is good for you. Rich in antioxidants, it's healthier than milk or white alternatives. Less well known is the fact that the flavonoids in cocoa can help mitigate the stress response from the adrenal glands and the subsequent release of cortisol. Plus, chocolate can help put you in a better mood. 3. Green tea Rich in catechins, a category of antioxidant polyphenols, and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation, green tea is soothing and energising at the same time, and the ideal drink to sip when you're stressed out. Consume it in loose leaf, tea bag or matcha form. It can also be added to smoothies and desserts. 4. Salmon Perhaps the ultimate skin-friendly food, salmon (like other types of fish rich in healthy fats, like sardines and mackerel), can help regulate cortisol levels, thanks to its anti-inflammatory omega-3 content. In fact, some studies have found that fish oils can counteract adrenal gland activation in stressful situations. 5. Avocado Another skin-loving food, avocado contains significant amounts of potassium, as well as magnesium, an anti-stress mineral that promotes sleep and muscle relaxation by helping to counteract cortisol. Pair it with a boiled or poached egg on toast for a balanced breakfast. 6. Legumes Chickpeas, beans and fava beans, as well as lentils, peas and lupins, are all excellent sources of fibre that support gut health and regulate blood sugar. In addition, they are rich in B vitamins and magnesium, both of which contribute to the healthy function of the nervous system. 7. Berries Blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries and the like are tiny powerhouses of free radical-fighting antioxidants. Because of this, they reduce oxidative stress and cortisol levels. Add berries to smoothies and yoghurt, or eat them with a handful of almonds and walnuts. 8. Nuts Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, and Brazil nuts all have anti-stress properties, thanks to their combination of good fats, magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants. Add them to salads and pasta dishes, or keep a stash handy to snack on between meals. 9. Eggs In addition to being an outstanding source of quality protein, vitamins and minerals, eggs contain choline, an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in brain health, and helps to reduce stress and anxiety by improving emotional wellbeing. Eating a protein-rich, egg-based breakfast in the morning can be an easy way to stay full and satisfied until lunch. 10. Chia seeds Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s, chia seeds help to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. Make chia seed pudding with dairy or non-dairy milk, add them to smoothies, or create an easy chocolate mousse by soaking them in almond milk and then blending them with pure cocoa, with a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness. Article originally published on Vogue Italy
