The beauty buffs of TikTok are concerned about a condition known as “moon face,” which is believed to be caused by high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. While facial puffiness can be a side effect of high cortisol levels, it is usually seen in severe medical conditions rather than everyday stress. Doctors warn that most cases of facial swelling are not due to cortisol alone, but may be caused by factors such as sleep deprivation or sugar consumption.
“Moon face” is a symptom with well-defined causes, such as taking steroids or having Cushing’s syndrome, which results in excessive cortisol production. Lifestyle factors such as high salt intake, lack of sleep, allergies, and certain medical conditions can also cause facial swelling. Recent beauty trends that emphasize a thin, chiseled face may skew peoples’ expectations of what a healthy face should look like, leading them to believe that any puffiness is a sign of underlying illness.
It is unlikely that many individuals complaining of “moon face” on social media are actually experiencing a chronic stress hormone imbalance. While high levels of cortisol can lead to weight gain and inflammation, feeling overwhelmed may encourage habits that also cause puffiness, such as alcohol consumption and poor diet. True “moon face” is characterized by a buildup of fat deposits in the face due to excessive cortisol production, while more common puffiness may be attributed to water retention, weight gain, alcohol consumption, dehydration, and an unhealthy diet.
Cortisol is an essential hormone in the body that helps activate stress responses and plays a role in regulating blood pressure and immune function. While stress may not be the primary cause of facial puffiness, there may be a link, as cortisol spikes can lead to lipogenesis and water retention. However, the effects of cortisol on facial swelling are usually subtle, and pronounced cases are likely due to significant underlying causes not directly caused by cortisol.
The treatment for true “moon face” involves addressing the factors that cause the buildup of cortisol, such as discontinuing steroid use or undergoing surgery for Cushing’s syndrome. For those with general facial puffiness, experts recommend self-care practices such as getting more sleep, exercising, eating healthy meals, and reducing stress through activities that promote the production of happy hormones like endorphins and oxytocin. In conclusion, while high levels of cortisol can contribute to facial swelling, it is important to consider other lifestyle factors and medical conditions that may be causing puffiness in individuals.
