Cortisol Face

Have you noticed changes in your clients’ skin that seem to appear during stressful times?  

Those tired eyes and puffy cheeks might be more than just a passing phase; they could be indicators of elevated cortisol levels, our body's natural stress response. 

Let’s unpack what cortisol face really is, how it affects our appearance, and how the aesthetics industry is adapting to this trend.  

Cortisol Face 

“Cortisol face" is not an officially recognized medical term, but it has gained popularity in discussions around stress and skin health, especially on social media and in the beauty and wellness community. The concept refers to real physiological changes associated with elevated cortisol levels due to stress, which can affect the skin's appearance.  

Although cortisol can make the face puffy, let’s point out that it’s more likely that a puffy face is a result of poor diet with salt, sugar, and processed foods, alcohol, or not enough sleep —all things also related to stress.  

The term also encapsulates a growing awareness of how stress impacts physical health, particularly in the context of esthetics. As the beauty industry increasingly acknowledges the connection between mental and skin health, you may see more references to "cortisol face" in popular discussions, articles, and even product marketing aimed at addressing stress-related skin concerns. 

So, What is Cortisol?  

Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, and it can have significant impacts on the skin and body when levels are high: 

• Increase oil production —leads to acne 
   
• Inflammation —exacerbate conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea 
   
• Decreased collagen production —contribute to premature aging 
   
• Impaired barrier function 
   
• Puffiness and swelling —particularly around the eyes or cheeks 
   
• Slower wound healing 
   
• Mood changes 

These changes associated with cortisol can affect self-esteem and mental health, creating a cycle of stress and negative impacts on the skin and body. 

The Esthetics Industry 

The esthetics industry is evolving with an increasing understanding of the connection between mental and physical health. This is leading to the development of holistic products and techniques that do more than just treat the skin, but also are designed to address overall health.  

Here are ways estheticians can incorporate relaxation and mindfulness into their treatment room to help their clients’ deal with stress:  

• Stress reduction —Add facial massage, aromatherapy, guided meditation, or acupuncture to your treatment offerings 
   
• Topical products —Use products with adaptogens to help the skin cope with stress, irritation, and inflammation 
   
• Personalized skin analysis —incorporate AI and advanced technology to take stress into account when consulting and analyzing 
   
• Emphasis on barrier repair —incorporate formulations for moisture retention, dehydration, and irritation 
   
• Education —educate clients on the effects of stress, promoting self-awareness, lifestyle changes, and incorporating self-care 
   
• Mindfulness —incorporate wellness programs and mindfulness techniques into your services as part of the skin care routine. Consider sound therapy, LED light therapy, and aromatherapy