May 14, 2025

Aarushi Bhadury

Physical Signs Of High Cortisol

​Weight Gain, Especially Around the Abdomen and Face​

Increased cortisol can lead to fat storage, particularly in the belly area, face (often called "moon face"), and the back of the neck ("buffalo hump").

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​Thin Skin and Easy Bruising​

High cortisol can weaken the skin's collagen, making it fragile, thinner, and more prone to bruising even from minor bumps. Wounds may also heal more slowly.

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​Purple or Red Stretch Marks (Striae)​

These can appear on the abdomen, thighs, breasts, and underarms due to the combination of weight gain and the weakening effect of cortisol on the skin's connective tissues.

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​Muscle Weakness​

Elevated cortisol levels can lead to the breakdown of muscle tissue over time, causing weakness, particularly in the upper arms and thighs, making activities like standing from a seated position difficult.

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​Acne​

High cortisol can increase sebum production, leading to clogged pores and more frequent breakouts, even in adulthood. It can also slow down the healing of acne.

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​Increased Facial Hair Growth in Women (Hirsutism)​

High cortisol can sometimes stimulate the production of androgens (male hormones) in women, leading to excess hair growth on the face, neck, and other body parts.

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​Hair Thinning or Hair Loss​

Cortisol can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, causing hair to shed prematurely or thin, particularly at the crown of the scalp.

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​Red or Flushed Face​

Chronically high cortisol can dilate blood vessels, making the face appear red or blotchy, especially during times of stress or embarrassment.

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​High Blood Pressure​

Prolonged high cortisol levels can contribute to increased blood pressure, putting extra strain on the heart and blood vessels.

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​Fatigue and Weakness​

Persistent tiredness and a general feeling of weakness that doesn't improve with rest can be a sign of high cortisol disrupting the body's energy regulation.

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