How Cortisol Impacts Your Skin — And What Science Says You Can Do About It
When we think about our skin health, we often focus on topical treatments, diet, exercise and hydration. However there’s a powerful internal factor that plays a role in how our skin looks and feels, CORTISOL!. Research now shows us that high cortisol levels don’t just affect your mood — they affect your skin, too.
What Is Cortisol?
Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone. It is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps regulate blood sugar, metabolism, immune responses, and the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. In short bursts, cortisol is useful supporting our fight or flight mechanisms but chronic stress over long periods means that our cortisol levels remain elevated and this leads to visible and physiological changes in the skin.
What does Cortisol Do To Your Skin
1. Breaks Down Collagen
Chronic cortisol exposure increases matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). These are enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin.
2. Triggers Acne and Breakouts
Elevated cortisol levels increase sebum production in the skin. A 2007 study found that stress correlates with acne severity, particularly in young adults.
3. Weakens the Skin Barrier
Cortisol impairs the production of ceramides which are fats that form the skin’s barrier and help retain moisture. This results in dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.
4. Increases Inflammation and Skin Conditions
Cortisol can dysregulate immune function, increasing inflammation that exacerbates conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
5. Slows Wound Healing
A study from Ohio State University showed that wound healing is delayed by up to 40% in response to chronic stress. Cortisol suppresses the immune response and reduces the skin’s ability to regenerate.
What You Can Do To Help?
The good news: research also supports effective ways to lower cortisol and protect your skin.
Practice Daily Stress Management
Mindfulness, meditation, and breathing techniques are shown to reduce cortisol. Aim for at least 10 minutes a day to improve both mood and skin.
Prioritise Sleep
Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night. A consistent sleep schedule can normalise cortisol rhythms and boost skin repair overnight.
Stay Active
Regular, moderate exercise lowers baseline cortisol levels and boosts circulation, which benefits the skin.
Use Skin Barrier Supportive Skincare
Products with ceramides and hyaluronic acid help strengthen the skin barrier.
Supplements Adaptogens like ashwagandha may reduce visible signs of stress.
Your skin is a mirror of your internal health — and cortisol plays a major role in that reflection. By recognizing the signs of stress-related skin issues and taking both lifestyle and skincare steps to balance cortisol, you can restore your skin’s natural glow and resilience.
At Skin Sculpt Skincare, we believe skincare is self-care and that includes nurturing your mind and body as much as your skin.
Let your skincare ritual be your moment of calm. Your skin will thank you.
