The term “cortisol face” is currently popular on TikTok. If your cheeks appear fuller or rounder, social media might suggest it points to a problem with your cortisol levels.

However, “cortisol face” is not a legitimate medical diagnosis, and simply having a certain appearance doesn’t automatically indicate an issue with your cortisol levels, as noted by healthcare professionals.

Cortisol face, sometimes called “moon face” on social platforms, may be related to obesity or a condition known as Cushing’s syndrome, according to WebMD. Other signs of Cushing’s can include a fat accumulation at the back of the neck, distinct pink or purple stretch marks on the abdomen, exhaustion, and unusual hair growth on the face.

Medical experts want to clarify the misconceptions surrounding cortisol.

What causes elevated cortisol levels?

Cortisol, known as the body’s primary stress hormone, has various roles, including regulating blood pressure and sugar levels, regulating sleep patterns, reducing inflammation, controlling the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and aiding the body in managing stress.

Cushing’s syndrome is a condition caused by excess cortisol. This increase can result from taking certain medications (mainly glucocorticoids used for treating autoimmune diseases) or tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands, which are typically non-cancerous but can be malignant, as per the Cleveland Clinic.

Nevertheless, there’s no need for alarm. Gynecologist Karen Tang, M.D., informs YSL News that serious cortisol imbalances are quite rare. These conditions affect only 10 to 15 individuals per million annually, primarily cisgender women aged 20 to 50, according to the Endocrine Society. She warns against following medical information from social media, which may exaggerate the prevalence of health issues.

“The online discussions can give the impression that most people experience hormone imbalances,” says Tang. “It’s a powerful marketing strategy since many have faced fatigue, weight loss issues, or mood swings. This makes the conversation feel relevant to nearly everyone, despite the reality that only a fraction truly has a hormonal or endocrine disorder requiring treatment.”

How can I manage my cortisol levels?

If you notice symptoms that could suggest a cortisol imbalance, it’s advisable to consult a doctor for evaluation and potential treatment.

“In most situations, when we refer to cortisol as a stress hormone, it’s common to have normal cortisol levels if we check your blood. This means it’s not something that necessarily requires treatment,” Tang explains. “Instead, a focus on stress management, consuming a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and regular exercise can help maintain stable blood pressure and sugar levels.”

“However, if you observe significant changes in your health impacting your well-being — such as substantial weight gain, severe mood swings during perimenopause, or other troubling symptoms — it’s important to consult your doctor for an evaluation,” advises Tang.