One Quick Thing ...
We want to make sure Skimm Well stays truly useful for you. Our goal is to help you separate the health from the hype and deliver the wellness news and tips you actually care about.
How are we doing? What do you want more (or less) of? Tell us everything here.
Now, on to the week…
Hey, do I have cortisol on my face?
If your FYP is anything like mine, “the stress hormone” — part of the fight or flight cocktail of chemicals we release under pressure — is to blame for everything from sleep problems, to breakouts, to puffiness, to sugar cravings, to brain fog.
It’s normal for cortisol to rise and fall during the day. Like when you’re running from a lion or your boss leaves a “pls fix” comment. But, it’s not the catch-all boogeyman for everything that ails you. Here’s how to know if your levels are actually a problem.
And here’s why I’m thinking the Cortisol Discourse™ has officially gone too far…
“Cortisol face” is trending and I’m scared to look...
...because sometimes it's an actual health concern. Just ask Amy Schumer.
“Cortisol cocktails” are the new lemon water. But are they legit?
You could roll the dice with “cortisol-reducing” supplements –– or just reach for these nutrient-rich foods that may lower cortisol.
— Anna "Going on a Cortisol Discourse Detox” Davies, writer
What's Making the Rounds
Would you RSVP “yes” to a “backyard Botox” party?
Some parents are embarking on a dangerous DNA path in pursuit of a “superbaby.”
This annoying below-the-belt symptom could affect eight out of 10 women in perimenopause... so why is no one talking about it?
If you’ve got melatonin on your bedside table –– or in your kid’s medicine cabinet –– you'll want to read this.
The internet is obsessed with this viral chia seed drink… but here's why you should think twice before giving your gut an “internal shower."
Is your late-night ice cream habit giving you nightmares?
If you’ve ever gotten your period at the exact wrong time… at least you weren’t this model at Wimbledon.
The summer’s "it" accessory is… an arm patch.
The continuous glucose monitor (CGM) was originally designed for people with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar, but it’s gone mainstream thanks to influencers like "Glucose Goddess" and certain Montecito celebs.
Now, everyone with an Oura Ring is wondering whether to add this health data tracker to the mix. Here's what to know...
The 101: Your body breaks food into glucose (blood sugar) for energy. CGMs track how your blood sugar rises and falls after you eat.
The why: People that don't have diabetes or prediabetes wear CGMs to track their data and experiment with small tweaks — like swapping a sugary breakfast for eggs, or seeing if a 10-minute walk after lunch helps avoid an energy crash.
What doctors say: CGM data can be unreliable for non-diabetics. And, our blood sugar naturally goes up and down, so focusing on every bump can fuel unnecessary stress.
For Your Sanity:
Notice patterns. If certain foods leave you feeling tired or hungry soon after eating, try pairing them with these.
Talk to a pro. If you have concerns, a doctor or a registered dietitian may have suggestions –– like "meal sequencing" to shift how your body responds to high-glycemic foods.
Carbs do not always = sugar crash. For example: This healthier way to make pasta.
Q: I’ve seen a lot of people recommend insect repellant with DEET. But isn’t DEET really bad for you?
FEATURED EXPERT:
Hannah Kopelman, DO
Dermatologist, DermOnDemand
“Generally not when used as directed. Insect repellents aren’t just about avoiding itchy bites — they can help prevent serious illnesses, like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. I personally recommend insect repellents that contain 20–30% DEET for most outdoor activities, as that concentration offers solid protection without being overly harsh on the skin. For those who prefer alternatives, products with picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective, but they may not last quite as long. What matters most is choosing an EPA-registered repellent — that tells you it’s been reviewed for both safety and efficacy. And don’t forget to reapply if you’re out for a long time or sweating a lot.”
PS: Here’s a roundup of repellants to consider that both work well and don’t smell like Eau de Melted Plastic.
Make Your Dentist Proud
Skip the lecture and go straight for the prize bowl with these electronic toothbrushes that keep cavities at bay while helping your smile sparkle.
Oral-B
Oral-B iO Series 5 is the best value.
Suri
Suri 40-Day Battery Life Electric Toothbrush is the best for sustainability.
Philips
Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige is the best splurge.
Click here for the full list of the best electric toothbrushes, medically reviewed by a dentist.
Pop Quiz
Do you know which healthcare providers can help if you determine if what you are experiencing are symptoms of PPD? Symptoms can include depressed mood, loss of interest in hobbies, or trouble bonding with your new baby.†
A) OB-GYNs (obstetrician-gynecologists)
B) Primary care providers
C) Nurse practitioners or physician assistants
D) Psychiatrists
E) All of the above
†These are not all the signs and symptoms of PPD. Individual experiences may vary. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose PPD.
If you guessed E, all of the above, you’re right. It can be difficult to know where to start a conversation about PPD, but it’s one of the most common complications associated with pregnancy — and there are treatment options available. ZURZUVAE® (zuranolone) is the first and only FDA-approved 14-day oral treatment for adults with PPD. Learn how to get the conversation started here.
Please see Important Safety Information about ZURZUVAE below, and full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide. Intended for audiences over 18 in the U.S.
Photos by Dupe, theSkimm, Brand Partners
Design by theSkimm
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute a medical opinion, medical advice, or diagnosis or treatment of any particular condition. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental-health professional, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
What should I know about ZURZUVAE?
ZURZUVAE may cause serious side effects, including:
Decreased ability to drive or do other dangerous activities. ZURZUVAE may decrease your awareness and alertness, which can affect your ability to drive safely or safely do other dangerous activities
Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until at least 12 hours after taking each dose during your 14-day treatment course of ZURZUVAE
You may not be able to tell on your own if you can drive safely or tell how much ZURZUVAE is affecting you
Decreased awareness and alertness [central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects]. ZURZUVAE may cause sleepiness, drowsiness, slow thinking, dizziness, confusion, and trouble walking
Because of these symptoms, you may be at a higher risk for falls during treatment with ZURZUVAE
Taking alcohol, other medicines that cause CNS depressant effects, or opioids while taking ZURZUVAE can make these symptoms worse and may also cause trouble breathing
Tell your healthcare provider if you develop any of these symptoms, or if they get worse during treatment with ZURZUVAE. Your healthcare provider may decrease your dose or stop ZURZUVAE treatment if you develop these symptoms
ZURZUVAE is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it contains zuranolone, which can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep ZURZUVAE in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not sell or give away ZURZUVAE, because it may harm others and is against the law.
Before taking ZURZUVAE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
drink alcohol
have abused or been dependent on prescription medicines, street drugs, or alcohol
have liver or kidney problems
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. ZURZUVAE may harm your unborn baby
are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. ZURZUVAE passes into breast milk, and it is not known if it can harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding and about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with ZURZUVAE
Females who are able to become pregnant:
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with ZURZUVAE.
You should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with ZURZUVAE and for 1 week after the final dose
There is a pregnancy registry for females who are exposed to ZURZUVAE during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to collect information about the health of females exposed to ZURZUVAE and their baby. If you become pregnant during treatment with ZURZUVAE, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-844-405-6185 or visit online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants/
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. ZURZUVAE and some medicines may interact with each other and cause serious side effects. ZURZUVAE may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect the way ZURZUVAE works.
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take antidepressants, opioids, or CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines.
What should I avoid while taking ZURZUVAE?
Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until at least 12 hours after taking each dose of ZURZUVAE because ZURZUVAE may make you feel sleepy, confused, or dizzy
Do not drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy while taking ZURZUVAE without talking to your healthcare provider
See “What is the most important information I should know about ZURZUVAE?”
ZURZUVAE may cause serious side effects, including:
See “What is the most important information I should know about ZURZUVAE?”
Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. ZURZUVAE and other antidepressant medicines may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in people 24 years of age and younger. ZURZUVAE is not for use in children
How can I watch for and try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions?
Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, or if you develop suicidal thoughts or actions. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings
Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider as scheduled. Call your healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:
attempts to commit suicide
thoughts about suicide or dying
new or worse depression
feeling very agitated or restless
trouble sleeping (insomnia)
new or worse anxiety
panic attacks
new or worse irritability
acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania)
acting on dangerous impulses
other unusual changes in behavior or mood
The most common side effects of ZURZUVAE include:
Sleepiness or drowsiness, dizziness, common cold, diarrhea, feeling tired, weak, or having no energy, and urinary tract infection
These are not all of the possible side effects of ZURZUVAE. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
What is ZURZUVAE® (zuranolone) CIV?
ZURZUVAE is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with postpartum depression (PPD).
It is not known if ZURZUVAE is safe and effective in children.
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide.
Sponsored by Sage Therapeutics, Inc. and Biogen Inc.
ZUR-US-1315V2 06/2025
Live Smarter
Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.