Freedom over Facial Puffiness "Cortisol face"

I kept seeing this lately and frankly there was some terrible advice out there, so this is an all new article, no old notes from back in 2010. I spent some time thinking on what I knew and could find out to solve this issue. The term "cortisol face" has recently gained traction on social media, yet this term oversimplifies the significant health risks tied to persistently elevated cortisol levels. These include conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and the acceleration of ageing. Cortisol, often dubbed the "stress hormone," serves a vital role in regulating blood glucose levels, but prolonged elevation—whether due to stress, excessive physical exertion, or low-carb diets—can have a detrimental impact on your health and longevity. In my experience with Ancient Purity, we advocate for a comprehensive understanding of hormones and their effects on overall well-being. Research has shown that women with acne tend to have higher levels of cortisol along with other hormonal imbalances. This underscores the direct link between chronic stress, cortisol, and skin health. But this goes beyond just acne—it affects a wide range of bodily functions, often in ways that aren’t immediately visible.

If you’ve seen the term "cortisol face" trending online, you’ve likely come across influencers suggesting that facial puffiness and swelling are clear indicators of elevated cortisol levels. These catchy phrases such as, “You’re not ugly, you just have cortisol face,” while attention-grabbing, fail to address the deeper health concerns associated with chronic cortisol elevation. Although facial changes can occur with high cortisol, it’s crucial to recognise that the potential health risks extend far beyond mere appearance. Maria Olenick, an associate professor at Texas A&M University School of Nursing, aptly warns, “Although facial changes can occur with high cortisol, focusing solely on appearance trivialises the serious health risks associated with prolonged cortisol elevation.” This trend has started a conversation, but it barely touches on the broader implications for our health. Anyway I want to raise awareness about the significant impact of stress on your body and the crucial need for balanced cortisol levels to maintain overall health. Let me cover what I think you can do. Remember to check back anytime as I always add when I find new info.

Understanding Cortisol Beyond Its “Stress” Label

Acne: The hormonal connection, a study at Pomeranian Medical University in Poland highlighted the connection between elevated cortisol and acne. The research found that women with acne had significantly higher cortisol levels, as well as increased levels of other hormones like testosterone and androstenedione. This suggests that stress—and the associated rise in cortisol—is a direct contributor to acne flare-ups. Our skin, often overlooked as a hormone-regulating organ, is heavily influenced by cortisol. Excess cortisol triggers increased sebum production, providing a fertile ground for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. I understand that acne isn't just a surface-level concern; it's a symptom of underlying hormonal imbalances, often linked to stress. By addressing the root causes of these imbalances, including the management of cortisol, we help support overall skin health.

Moon Face & Cortisol: Sounds funny but it's a serious concern. “Moon face,” another side effect of cortisol excess, is commonly associated with corticosteroid use and is characterised by a round, puffy facial appearance. A study conducted in Saudi Arabia revealed that a significant number of participants taking corticosteroids were aware of moon face as a common symptom. While this change in appearance might seem cosmetic, it’s an early indicator of more serious health issues. Participants in this study also reported central obesity (fat around the abdomen), rounding off the upper back, and swelling in the lower legs, all of which are linked to prolonged high cortisol levels. These physical changes are warning signs, indicating that cortisol is altering fat distribution and causing other harmful effects in the body. Moon face is not only a cosmetic issue—it’s linked to more serious conditions like glucocorticoid-induced diabetes and high blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that patients with moon face had a much higher risk of developing both diabetes and high blood pressure. In fact, the presence of moon face was identified as an independent risk factor for these conditions, even when accounting for other known risk factors like age and medication dosage. Chronic cortisol elevation is also associated with damage to brain tissue, contributing to cognitive decline and depression. It can even accelerate the ageing process by interfering with tissue repair and regeneration. We should go for a holistic approach to managing cortisol levels, which includes diet, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplementation.

Solutions on the Road to Freedom

Foods: One of the most effective ways to manage cortisol levels is by increasing your intake of healthy carbohydrates. A balanced diet, rich in nutritious carbs like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helps to stabilise cortisol and improve overall health. However, it’s crucial to avoid processed foods that can wreak havoc on the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and further cortisol elevation. For those with compromised gut health, we recommend a gradual reintroduction of carbohydrates, starting with dextrose. This can help restore both gut and mitochondrial function over time. Also Bromelain, this is an enzyme found in pineapple that has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce swelling and puffiness by breaking down proteins that can lead to water retention and inflammation in the tissues. A daily dose of bromelain can improve lymphatic drainage and enhance facial firmness. Then there is Potassium rich foods. High sodium intake is a common cause of facial puffiness, and potassium helps counteract this by promoting proper fluid balance. Bananas, avocados, and potassium supplements can support the reduction of puffiness while improving overall hydration. I will go into more detail on salt/sodium later. At Ancient Purity, we often advocate for using high-quality, bioavailable nutrients to support the body’s ability to handle stress.

Peace & Wellness: In addition to switching to adding healthy carbs into your diet, it’s important to manage your stress levels to prevent your body from producing excess cortisol. As highlighted in the featured HuffPost article I found online, Dr. Prpa recommended that incorporating relaxation techniques and self-care can lower cortisol levels, allowing the gut to reset and activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. "Stress doesn’t just affect our mental well-being; it also has a significant impact on gut health. When stress levels rise, our gut bacteria – the unsung heroes of digestion – can suffer," Dr. Prpa explained. The following is some simple relaxation techniques to help in the trip.

• Do things you enjoy, such as reading, taking a bath, playing with pets, drawing, crafting, playing music, or cooking.
• Engage in active relaxation activities like going for walks, practising yoga or Pilates, or doing gentle stretching.
• Spend a few minutes each day practising deep breathing. Keep your shoulders relaxed, and place a hand on your stomach – it should rise and fall as you breathe in and out.
• Head to the Great Outdoors, focusing on the present moment and observing trees, plants, and animals.
• Take a break from your phone and be offline (he says in the middle of an online article) but you get me, there's balance.

Most of all, be present, remember who you are, what you are, find peace and serenity in absolutely nothing. Each day, come closer to home, the home inside. I mean I love the Power of Now by Eckart Tolle, Lester Levenson and David Hawkins are great teachers. I recommend their stuff.

Exercise & Weight Loss

Should be obvious, but beyond losing weight you need the actual exercise too. So don't just calorie deficit down to correct weight, move. This will significantly reduce facial puffiness by targeting the root causes of fluid retention, inflammation, and poor circulation. Enhanced circulation helps flush out excess fluids, reduce inflammation, and eliminate waste products that can accumulate in the tissues, leading to a swollen appearance. Increased blood flow also stimulates the lymphatic system. Excess body weight, especially when accompanied by a high-sodium diet, can cause your body to hold onto extra water, leading to facial bloating. Exercise promotes sweating, which helps eliminate excess sodium and toxins. As you lose weight, your body naturally sheds excess fluid, reducing puffiness around the face, especially in areas like the cheeks and under the eyes.

Fat cells produce inflammatory molecules that can contribute to puffiness. By losing weight, you reduce inflammation throughout your body, including your face. Exercise also helps lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can trigger fluid retention and worsen facial swelling. Regular physical activity, especially facial exercises, can tone the muscles in your face, making it appear slimmer and more defined. As you lose weight and firm up the underlying muscles, the skin naturally tightens, which helps reduce sagging and puffiness. Exercise helps regulate hormones that influence fluid balance and inflammation, such as insulin and cortisol. By maintaining a healthier hormone balance, your body is better able to manage water retention, making your face look less puffy over time.

Supplementing...

Progesterone: One additional tool for managing cortisol levels is the use of progesterone, a natural hormone with anti-cortisol effects. At Ancient Purity, we emphasise the importance of a bioenergetic diet to support your body’s natural ability to burn glucose effectively. In addition to dietary changes, progesterone can help to reduce cortisol levels and promote a restful night’s sleep, especially when taken transmucosally (on the gums), which bypasses the digestive system for better absorption. I have known people who used this approach and found it to be incredibly effective. If you are concerned about the effects of cortisol on your body, I encourage you to explore holistic approaches to stress management and hormone balance. I'll go into more detail below on how to use Progesterone.

Magnesium Glycinate: Magnesium plays a crucial role in reducing water retention and inflammation. It helps regulate sodium levels and balances fluid retention, which can be particularly beneficial for reducing puffiness. Magnesium Glycinate is one of the most bioavailable forms, meaning it’s gentle on the stomach and easily absorbed. It also promotes relaxation, which can decrease stress-related swelling in the face. Here you can purchase Liposomal Magnesium Glycinate

Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant, Vitamin C supports collagen production and boosts circulation, which can help reduce puffiness. It works by strengthening capillary walls and reducing inflammation. Improved circulation means that fluids are less likely to accumulate under the skin, leading to a more toned and less swollen appearance. Try a Vitamin C supplement or a serum applied topically for a double benefit.

Dandelion Root: This natural diuretic is excellent for reducing water retention. Dandelion Root Extract helps the kidneys expel excess fluid, which can reduce facial bloating. It also supports liver detoxification, enhancing the removal of toxins that could be contributing to facial puffiness. Drinking dandelion tea or taking a supplement can help achieve a more defined facial contour.

Collagen Peptides: Supplementing with collagen can support skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of puffiness over time. Collagen strengthens the skin's structure, making it firmer and better able to retain its shape. It also helps reduce inflammation by promoting healthier connective tissue and skin regeneration, giving a more lifted and youthful appearance.

Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its incredible moisture-retaining properties, hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain hydration without the puffiness that comes with water retention. It draws moisture into the deeper layers of the skin, which can help plump up the skin from within and reduce the visibility of puffiness caused by dehydration.

Green Tea Extract: Rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG, green tea extract can help reduce puffiness by enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation. It also helps with detoxification, flushing out toxins that could be causing fluid retention. Drinking green tea or taking an extract supplement can yield visible results in reducing facial swelling.

Celtic Sea Salt

Celtic Sea Salt, unlike refined table salt, is a completely unprocessed, natural salt harvested from the coastal waters of Brittany, France. It retains over 80 trace minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which play crucial roles in maintaining the body's fluid balance, detoxification, and reducing inflammation. Contrary to the common belief that all salt leads to water retention, high-quality, mineral-rich salts like Celtic Sea Salt can actually help reduce facial puffiness. The body relies on a delicate balance of sodium and potassium to regulate water levels. Processed table salt lacks essential minerals, which can throw off this balance, leading to bloating and puffiness. However, the diverse range of electrolytes in Celtic Sea Salt helps restore this balance, encouraging the body to release excess water instead of retaining it. By maintaining the right electrolyte levels, Celtic Sea Salt can help the kidneys function optimally, promoting the flushing out of excess fluids that often collect under the skin and cause puffiness.

Celtic Sea Salt contains magnesium, which supports proper lymphatic function. The lymphatic system is responsible for clearing waste and excess fluid from the body, including the face. A well-functioning lymphatic system prevents fluid buildup in the facial tissues, reducing that swollen, puffy look. Regularly consuming a pinch of Celtic Sea Salt in warm water can enhance lymphatic flow, which is particularly beneficial if puffiness is caused by poor circulation or stagnation. Interestingly, natural sea salts like Celtic Sea Salt improve hydration by allowing cells to absorb water more efficiently. When your cells are properly hydrated, they are less likely to hold onto excess fluid in the tissues. This can reduce the appearance of facial puffiness and promote healthier, more supple skin. It’s counterintuitive, but adding a small amount of this salt to your water can make it easier for your body to stay hydrated, reducing dehydration-related puffiness, especially around the eyes.

The trace minerals in Celtic Sea Salt, particularly magnesium and potassium, possess anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic low-level inflammation can contribute to puffiness and swelling, especially in delicate facial tissues. By reducing inflammation, Celtic Sea Salt can help calm the skin and reduce facial swelling. The adrenal glands, which produce hormones like cortisol, play a key role in regulating your body's salt and fluid balance. When you’re under stress, the adrenals can become overworked, leading to imbalances that result in facial swelling. The trace minerals in Celtic Sea Salt nourish the adrenal glands, helping to regulate hormones and reduce stress-related puffiness. Ancient Purity Supplies Real Celtic Sea Salt.

MSM Organic Sulphur

MSM is a naturally occurring sulphur compound found in plants, animals, and humans. It’s well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, detoxification support, and ability to enhance skin health. This makes it a powerful supplement for reducing facial puffiness, while also promoting overall skin vitality. MSM works on multiple levels to combat the underlying causes of facial swelling, especially when that puffiness is related to inflammation, poor circulation, or toxin buildup. One of MSM's most well-known benefits is its ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Facial puffiness is often caused by localised inflammation in the skin and surrounding tissues, whether due to environmental stressors, diet, or underlying health conditions. MSM works by lowering levels of inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, which are often elevated during stress or irritation. This anti-inflammatory action helps reduce swelling, especially around sensitive areas like the eyes. It plays a key role in detoxifying the body by enhancing the permeability of cell membranes, which improves the exchange of nutrients and the removal of toxins. Toxins and metabolic waste can accumulate in the tissues, leading to water retention and facial puffiness. By promoting detoxification, MSM helps flush out excess fluids, reducing bloating and giving your face a more toned and defined appearance.

Sulphur is a critical component of collagen and keratin, the proteins that support skin structure and elasticity. As we age, collagen production declines, leading to sagging skin and increased susceptibility to fluid retention in the facial area. MSM provides the bioavailable sulfur needed to stimulate collagen synthesis, which not only improves skin firmness but also helps reduce sagging that can make puffiness more noticeable. Firmer skin can better resist the fluid accumulation that leads to a puffy appearance. Poor blood flow can result in fluid stagnation, particularly in the face, leading to that puffy, tired look. MSM helps dilate blood vessels and improve microcirculation, ensuring that nutrients are efficiently delivered to the skin while excess fluids are properly drained away. By enhancing circulation, MSM supports lymphatic drainage, which is key to reducing facial swelling and dark circles under the eyes. MSM helps maintain the health of cell membranes, allowing them to more effectively absorb nutrients and water. This promotes better hydration at the cellular level, preventing the skin from holding onto excess fluid and reducing puffiness. It also aids in repairing damaged skin cells, promoting faster skin renewal and giving your face a healthier, more youthful appearance.

How to Use & How to Acquire Progesterone & Vitamin E

When progesterone is used transmucosally (on your gums) as is recommend, the FDA in the USA considers it to be a drug and prohibits any company from suggesting this method on their product labels. This is why companies like promote their progesterone products as "topical." However, it is important to understand that it is entirely legal for any Doctor to prescribe a drug for an off-label use. In this case, progesterone is a natural hormone, not a drug, and it is very safe, even in high doses. This is in contrast to synthetic progesterone, known as progestins, which are used by pharmaceutical companies and are often incorrectly referred to in the same way. Dr Ray Peat is widely regarded as the foremost expert on progesterone. He wrote his Ph.D. thesis on oestrogen in 1982 and spent much of his career documenting the need to counteract the dangers of excess oestrogen through low-LA (linoleic acid) diets and transmucosal progesterone supplementation.

He discovered that most solvents do not dissolve progesterone effectively and found that vitamin E is the most optimal solvent for delivering progesterone into your tissues. Vitamin E also helps protect against damage from linoleic acid. However, it is crucial to be cautious about the type of vitamin E you use, as most vitamin E supplements available on the market can be harmful rather than beneficial. It is essential to avoid synthetic vitamin E (often labelled as alpha-tocopherol acetate — the acetate indicates it's synthetic). Natural vitamin E will be labelled as "d-alpha-tocopherol," which is the pure D isomer that your body can utilise. There are also other forms of vitamin E, and you should aim for the full spectrum of tocopherols and tocotrienols, specifically the beta, gamma, and delta types, along with the effective D isomer. As an example of the ideal vitamin E, you can refer to the label on the vitamin E product in our store, or any similar brand with the same labelling.

How to Buy It: You can purchase pharmaceutical-grade, bioidentical progesterone in powdered form (Progesterone Powder, Bioidentical Micronised Powder, 10 grams) for around £40 from online stores. This is nearly a year's supply, depending on the dose you choose.

Creation: You will need to buy small stainless steel measuring spoons, as you’ll need a 1/64 tsp (25 mg) and a 1/32 tsp (50 mg).

Dose: A typical dose is between 25-50 mg, taken 30 minutes before bed, as it has an anti-cortisol effect and can enhance GABA levels, helping you sleep better. You can use a pre-mixed Progesterone with vitamin E and MCT oil. Although as I mentioned labels of the product will say "topical use only," I recommend applying it transmucosally, by rubbing it on your gums.

Men & Non-Menstruating Women: Progesterone can be taken every day for four to six months, followed by a one-week break. The ideal time to take progesterone is 30 minutes before bed, as it helps lower cortisol levels and promotes deeper sleep by increasing GABA.

Menstruating Women: Progesterone should be taken during the luteal phase, or the second half of your menstrual cycle. You can determine this by starting 10 days after the first day of your period and stopping the progesterone when your period begins.

Plan of Action

Ok some real in-depth stuff there, lifestyle, supplements and perhaps real target therapy with Progesterone. Let's put this into basic action.

Daily Ways
Food: Eat Clean, Eat Right. Avoid garbage, be conscious of the food you consume.
Body: Exercise and reduce calories daily until weight is in the lower range for your height.
Mind: Reduce Stress, remember you're in control of how you feel nothing outside can affect that.

Supplements
Progesterone: Take 25-50 mg, taken 30 minutes before sleeping.
MSM: Take 4-8 grams twice daily on an empty stomach, for a few months, break, repeat.
Hyaluronic Acid: Take 100mg daily.
Celtic Sea Salt: Replace typical salt with this and use for food, cooking.
Magnesium Glycinate: Use our Liposomal one and take 5ml a day.
Vitamin C: Use any form, stagger across the day, 3-4 doses of 500mg-1g.
Ancient Purity Dandelion Leaf & Root: Use our blend, a teaspoon in hot filtered water or soup.

Most of these natural health products are available at the website. Or maybe all depending on what year you read this. Anyway time to close this, I really think there's enough here for radical change. So give some or all of these a go until you get the shape you want. Be happy whatever, be at peace but whatever you like your body and face to look like go for it, it is a vehicle, we are the soul inside. Be well, Tom