Cortisol

What it is

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, often called the “stress hormone” because it rises in response to physical or emotional stress. Cortisol plays an important role in many of the body’s systems, including metabolism, immune response and inflammation regulation. While short-term spikes in cortisol are normal and even helpful, consistently high levels can negatively affect both overall health and skin function.

How it works in skin health

When cortisol levels remain elevated for long periods, the body’s inflammatory response can become unbalanced, leading to skin sensitivity, breakouts and flare-ups of existing conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. High levels also slow collagen production and impair the skin barrier, resulting in dryness, dullness, and fine lines.

Supporting healthy hormone levels is key to maintaining skin balance. Consistent sleep, hydration and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or gentle exercise can all help. In skincare, barrier-strengthening ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide and peptides can help counteract the effects of stress on the skin, keeping skin resilient, hydrated and calm.