Evidence over trend
Cortisol has a rhythm.
So does your skin.
“Cortisol face” has millions of views and no clinical definition. We dig into what stress actually does to your skin, sourced from dermatology and endocrinology research rather than social media claims.
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What's Your Stress-Skin Profile?
Six quick questions about your sleep, stress, and skin — get a profile and tailored care tips. No email required.
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View allFoundations · 3 min read
Does Cortisol Change With the Seasons? What Small Studies Suggest
A few human studies suggest cortisol may run somewhat higher in the colder, darker months, but the evidence is small and mixed, and it does not support "seasonal cortisol" supplement claims.
Cortisol Skin · 3 min read
Stress and Hand Eczema: What One Occupational Study Can and Cannot Tell Us
A 2023 study of physicians and dentists linked moderate-to-high perceived stress with self-reported hand eczema, but its design cannot show that stress causes it.
Foundations · 3 min read
Cortisol and Testosterone: What the Research Says About the Stress-Hormone Seesaw
Cortisol and testosterone come from two linked stress-sensitive systems that often work against each other, but the evidence is far more nuanced than "high cortisol kills testosterone."
Cortisol Skin · 3 min read
Stress and Sensitive Skin: What the Surveys Show (and What They Cannot)
Surveys across several countries link stress to self-reported skin sensitivity, but they are based on self-report and cannot show that cortisol causes the reactivity.
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Foundations
The established science of stress and skin, explained plainly.
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Cortisol Skin
"Cortisol face" is everywhere right now. We separate the trend from the evidence.
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Product Guides
Comparison guides for stress-related skincare categories.
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Expert Q&A
Interviews with dermatologists and endocrinology researchers.