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What is moon face? -

Social media users have been flocking online to talk about how cortisol, a stress hormone, can cause cheeks and eyelids to swell, a condition coined "moon face."

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What causes moon face? -

Social media users claim it's from high cortisol levels caused by high stress. However, according to dermatologist Dr. Rajani Katta, a clinical assistant professor at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, “While chronic stress can lead to increased levels of cortisol in the body, those levels don’t usually rise high enough to create a moon face.” 

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Steroid medications and moon face -

Steroid medications, particularly corticosteroids like prednisone, can cause moon face. This occurs because corticosteroids influence the body's hormonal balance and fat distribution.

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Cushing's syndrome -

Moon face can be a byproduct of having Cushing's syndrome which is a condition where the body has extremely high levels of cortisol.

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Water retention vs. fat redistribution -

Water retention in moon face causes facial swelling due to sodium and fluid buildup, while fat redistribution involves steroid-induced fat accumulation in the face, giving it a rounded appearance. Both factors contribute to the characteristic look, but water retention can fluctuate more quickly than fat gain.

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Other symptoms of moon face -

Acne or facial redness (flushing) can also occur with moon face.

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What is cortisol? -

Cortisol is a hormone that your adrenal glands produce and release. Cortisol is widely known as the stress hormone and can affect almost every organ system in your body.

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How stress can affect the face -

Though stress and cortisol from everyday stressors may not be the reason behind moon face, they can still take a toll on the face. The face creates more oil, which can lead to breakouts for some. What's more, conditions like eczema and psoriasis are exacerbated by stress. 

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Impact of dehydration -

Dehydration may worsen puffiness by causing the body to retain water, thus exacerbating moon face. 

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How collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides are affected by high cortisol -

Elevated cortisol inhibits the skin's production of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, which can lead to signs of premature aging.

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Bad habits and stress: eating salty snacks -

Eating habits during periods of stress can play an important role in the appearance of your face. a lot of people tend to consume more sodium when they are stressed which can increase face puffiness.

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The role of sugar and ultraprocessed carbs -

When stressed, people also tend to consume more ultra-processed carbohydrates and sugars that can impact facial puffiness.

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Other long-term effects related to sugar and ultraprocessed carbs -

These foods can also have long-term negative impacts, damaging the skin’s collagen through a process called glycation.

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Glycation explained -

This process causes sugar molecules to stick to proteins such as collagen and elastin, making the skin less flexible and more likely to wrinkle over time.

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How common is moon face? -

According to the Cleveland Clinic, moon face is a common side effect, especially related to corticosteroids used and from certain health conditions.

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The connection between weight gain and moon face -

Weight gain isn't officially moon face but can lead to a similar appearance. Be sure to maintain a weight that is healthy for you.

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Can moon face be reversed? -

Moon face can usually be reversed depending on the cause of the condition.

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Hormonal factors: moon face in women -

According to Clevland Clinic, hormonal imbalances especially in women can cause Cushing's syndrome and rapid weight gain in your face.

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Connection to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome -

People with diabetes or insulin resistance may gain weight and then excess glucose in the form of fat is stored. Over time, the extra weight can lead to a swollen, puffy face.

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Tips for reducing stress and lowering cortisol levels -

There are many tips and strategies you can implement to help lower cortisol levels.

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Types of exercise to help with stress -

Exercises, specifically yoga, meditation, and breathing can be extremely helpful in not only maintaining a moderate weight but also reducing stress.

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Importance of quality sleep -

Getting enough sleep, usually seven to eight hours a night, is essential in maintaining good health and reducing stress.

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Balanced diet to reduce fluid retention -

Consuming a diet rich in potassium, magnesium, and other nutrients can help reduce fluid retention and facial puffiness.

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Skincare routines to manage the appearance of moon face -

Gently massaging your face daily or even using ice can help the face drain excess fluid from your lymphatic system and restrict the blood vessels to reduce inflammation. 

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Emotional impact of moon face -

Moon face can cause people to feel a lot of shame, embarrassment, or body negativity. 

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Long-term management of moon face -

If you have a persistent moon face, there are a few strategies that might help. Be sure to emphasize body appreciation, first and foremost. Another option is to consider joining a support group.

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When to see a doctor -

If your moon face or swelling is persistent, severe, or painful you should consider seeking medical advice.

Sources: (CNN Health) (USA Today Life) (Real America News) (ScienceDirect) (Cleveland Clinic (Medical News Today)

See also: The biggest beauty trends in 2024

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