“Cortisol face” is a trending concern. Over a decade ago, the most common complaints were fatigue, poor sleep, weight gain, and seasonal allergies. The modern world operates at an increasingly strenuous vibration, and over the past few years, we’ve observed stress responses reaching unprecedented levels.
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands that follows a natural rhythm. It peaks in the morning to energize us, then gradually declines during the day, allowing for a restorative night of sleep. However, chronic stress can play a significant factor in disrupting this curve. These days, we often see cortisol levels spike erratically “like a ping-pong ball” throughout the day. In more severe cases, they either remain elevated or plummet to abnormally low levels. Unfortunately, these levels are not typically detected in routine blood work.
Moon Face vs. Cortisol Face
It’s important to differentiate the cortisol face from the more widely recognized moon face. Moon face is associated with true dysfunctional endocrine conditions such as Cushing’s Disease, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune conditions. It’s also a result of the use of common medications like steroids. While stress can exacerbate these conditions, moon face stems from a more significant hormonal imbalance. The conditions that cause moon face require diagnosis by a specialist such as a board-certified endocrinologist.
In contrast, cortisol face is usually a stress response when our body may store small amounts of fat on the sides of our face, neck, and abdomen. In functional medicine, what was once referred to as adrenal fatigue is now better understood as HPA axis dysfunction – a disruption in the body’s natural ability to regulate stress hormones effectively. This response can be alarming. You might notice that you need increasing amounts of caffeine to power through your day, experience sleep disruptions like waking throughout the night, or encounter unexplained weight gain. These symptoms reflect the body’s inability to adapt to chronic stress as it once did, leading to cortisol imbalances that manifest in ways we are only beginning to understand.
How to Improve Cortisol Face
Functional medical and wellness facilities, like B12 LOVE, offer various options that can help improve cortisol imbalances.
- See a Functional Medicine Practitioner for cortisol testing and assistance, as many now offer these services.
- Use adaptogenic herbs, like ashwagandha and maca root, in your everyday wellness routine. These simple, natural solutions can be taken daily to help balance cortisol patterns.
- Increase B vitamin levels through a daily B-complex supplement, or try getting a B-complex shot once a week.
- Improve hydration by increasing water intake, and consider getting an IV once or twice a month. We can all use more hydration throughout our day!
- Prioritize high-quality sleep. Turn off all screens at least one hour before bed. Sleep is the new fountain of youth regarding restoring a healthy cortisol rhythm.
At B12 LOVE, we’ve addressed cortisol imbalances by providing hydration therapies and vitamin & nutrient infusions designed to support optimal cortisol curves. Functional medicine businesses, such as B12 LOVE, offer baseline testing for cortisol, which typically is measured through saliva or urine rather than traditional blood testing, leading to greater accuracy.
We also offer innovative peptide therapies, specifically Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. While these medications are known more for significant weight loss results, in cases like cortisol face, a microdose can support a subtle yet effective 5- to 15-pound weight loss while minimizing side effects and reducing stubborn fat patterns. We’ve had great success with the sublingual form of these medications which are easy to use, cost saving, and highly effective in targeting stubborn excess weight. However, it’s essential to be mindful that these therapies are not a replacement for diet and lifestyle adjustments. The foundation for long-term balance and success is supporting the body’s natural stress response with healthy habits.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in testing your cortisol levels, B12 LOVE and our team of Functional Medical Practitioners are here to help! We offer comprehensive testing, personalized vitamin & supplement regimens, and, when appropriate, medication support to guide you on your journey to wellness and feeling like yourself again.
