what’s the new trend on TikTok?

social media They are the new cradle of trends: once they go viral, platforms bombard their users with that type of content until more emerge. The most recent one “cortisol face” which TikTok popularized as the topic caught the attention of the platform’s beauty niche, where countless posts had already accumulated.

Likewise, content creators have shown great interest in a widely recognized issue in the world of aesthetics; influence of hormones on body balance Because it is said that high levels of cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone”, can lead to facial swelling.

The platform’s claim is questioned because it must be taken into account that cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, which also plays a fundamental role in the body’s response to stress.

That’s why it’s called “stress hormone‘, given that its release into the blood happens when the brain perceives a threat for physical or mental well-being. During this time, the body reacts as a defense mechanism by releasing cortisol, which increases heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and concentration in preparation for action. Once the moment of danger has passed, cortisol levels should return to their normal balance.

Nevertheless, problem arises When stress becomes chronic. In these cases, a surge in cortisol can support and destabilize various body functions, from the cardiovascular and respiratory systems to the endocrine and gastrointestinal systems, and even affect libido and cognitive function.

In this context we started talking aboutcortisol face.” Yes, some people excess of this hormone may cause overproduction of sebum and inflammation of the skin, leading to dermatological problems such as acne or a noticeably swollen doll-like face. In fact, on TikTok, reviews from several users show comparisons that suggest an obvious connection between cortisol and changes in your face.

The connection between cortisol and physical appearance is not something new in the scientific community, as various studies have detailed that cortisol can break down collagen. In addition, excess of this hormone can cause inflammation of the skin, although this condition can also occur for other reasons, such as genetics, allergies, poor diet, chronic fluid retention, or long-term use of corticosteroids, medications that commonly cause swelling. However, regardless of the specific cause of a swollen face, experts emphasize take care of your mental well-being because by reducing anxiety levels, it can help normalize cortisol levels, which will have a positive effect on facial appearance.