How are Cortisol and Haut related?

Cortisol and skin are closely linked via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Chronically elevated cortisol – due to stress, Cushing's syndrome, or certain medications – can impair skin barrier function, slow wound healing, increase inflammation, and accelerate collagen breakdown, leading to premature aging, acne, eczema, or psoriasis. Cortisol also influences sebum production and immune responses in the skin. However, a single cortisol measurement (blood, saliva, or urine) is not sufficient to assess skin health because cortisol follows a strong circadian rhythm and fluctuates with acute stress. Reliable assessment requires multiple time-point measurements (e.g., diurnal salivary profile) and clinical correlation. Evidence is based on mechanistic and observational studies; consumer lab panels often lack validation for skin-specific claims. Interpretation should be conservative and integrated with lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, and stress management.