Social media’s newest obsession-cortisol belly and cortisol face-claims your stress hormone is behind bloated faces and belly fat. With trending hashtags and jaw-dropping before-after pics, it’s no surprise the internet is hooked.

Doctors and psychologists are raising red flags. They say this trend sneaks diet culture into your feed disguised as “self-care.” Dr. Himika Chawla warns: many of these so-called hormone-healing hacks lack real science. Instead, they redirect your focus from overall health to appearance.

Sure, cortisol-a stress hormone-can influence weight gain, especially in the belly and face. But calling every puff or pouch a "cortisol issue" oversimplifies the science. Factors like sleep, food, hormones, and genetics all play a role, says Dr. Ashish Rani.

Psychologist Dr. Preeti Singh adds that women, often impatient for results and influenced by social pressure, are easy targets for trends like this. Social media sells shortcuts-but healing takes time.

Experts suggest real stress-busting tools: deep sleep, mindful movement, meditation, and balanced meals. The goal? Focus less on looks, and more on how your body feels.