As modern life speeds up, stress has become an unavoidable part of our routines, and its effects on our health—particularly our skin—are gaining attention. Recently, the beauty world has been buzzing about "cortisol face," but is this trend really what it seems? Let’s break down the myths and real solutions.

The Cortisol Face Trend: What’s Real? 

Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress, and elevated levels can affect the skin by causing inflammation, acne, premature aging, and a puffy or swollen appearance. The term "cortisol face" has gone viral, particularly on TikTok, where it's linked to puffiness. However, many people may be misdiagnosing themselves. Over-fixating on achieving a certain look or reducing perceived symptoms, like a rounder face, can actually increase stress, potentially leading to genuine cortisol-related skin issues like acne.

The Myths: Misunderstanding Cortisol 

While stress can impact your skin, cortisol isn’t the sole culprit for puffiness. Factors like lack of sleep, alcohol consumption, and poor diet can contribute too. Many people mistakenly believe they have high cortisol just because of a rounder face, but doctors emphasize that elevated cortisol alone doesn’t cause this look unless linked to specific medical conditions like Cushing's syndrome.

The Real Solutions: How to Combat Stress-Related Skin Issues 

Rather than falling for trends, the focus should be on lifestyle changes. Managing stress with proper sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can reduce puffiness. Tools like our LINNÉ HARMONIZE Face Roller (pro tip: chill it first) can help stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage, reducing facial swelling. For those seeking skincare solutions, look for gentle, anti-inflammatory products that promote cellular health and avoid aggressive treatments that can cause irritation. Every single LINNÉ product contains clinically tested anti-inflammatory compounds!

Some of these products include ACTIVATE Exfoliating Mask & Wash, PURIFY Face Mask & Wash, RENEW Face Serum, BALANCE Face Oil, PROTECT Mineral SPF, HARMONIZE Face Roller.

Shop our Anti-Inflammatory heros. 

Stay informed, and choose products and routines that support holistic wellness, not just trends.