Influencers on Tiktok have a new obsession: this “Cortisol face”. And by that I mean round, puffy faces. The reason is stress. Is that correct?
With the advent of social networks, an increasing number of lay would-be scientists have also appeared on the stage. Her latest obsession is called “Cortisol face”which is currently primarily attracting the attention of the TikTok community. Influencers on the platform claim that high levels of stress hormones cause chubby cheeks and a puffy face. But is that true?
Cortisol is the body’s most important stress hormone. Hundreds of video clips on social media claim that excess stress – and therefore excess cortisol – causes a round, puffy face. Popular statements like “You’re not ugly, you just have a cortisol face”are circulating in videos in which users share before and after pictures of themselves. They are supposed to prove that less stress leads to less “Cortisol face” lead.
“Cortisol face” not a recognized medical term
However, the explanation is not scientifically tenable. In rare diseases such as Cushing’s syndrome, a relatively rare condition that can lead to high blood pressure, bone loss and occasionally type 2 diabetes. And in this case, chronically elevated cortisol levels can actually lead to fluid retention on the face. This is expressed, for example, in a so-called “Moon face” – i.e. fat accumulations on both sides of the face, which give it a rounder or puffy appearance.
But despite the spread of this concept on social media, experts warn against jumping to conclusions and emphasize that “Cortisol face” is not a recognized medical term. Accordingly, symptoms should be evaluated by medical professionals if necessary.
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Cushing’s syndrome very rare
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and plays an essential role in regulating metabolism, controlling our immune and stress responses, and maintaining blood pressure. Excess cortisol can be harmful, but daily stress is unlikely to lead to the more serious consequences seen in medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome.
What explanation then is there for the puffy face? Often there are factors that… “rounder face” favor, more general nature. Such as aging, unhealthy diet, lack of sleep or environmental pollution.
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Source: Stern
I’m Caroline, a journalist and author for 24 Hours Worlds. I specialize in health-related news and stories, bringing real-world impact to readers across the globe. With my experience in journalism and writing in both print and online formats, I strive to provide reliable information that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
