This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information.
With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.
This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies.
Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased.
The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.
What Is ‘Cortisol Face’? What You Need to Know About This TikTok Trend
November 6, 2024
“Cortisol face” is a term that’s gaining traction in the wellness world, particularly taking off on the social media platform TikTok, especially as more people recognize the visible impacts of stress on physical appearance.
It describes facial puffiness or bloating potentially linked to elevated levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone.
In today’s fast-paced world, where stress can be nearly unavoidable, understanding cortisol face can help identify if lifestyle changes are needed to maintain both mental and physical well-being.
This article dives in to what cortisol face is, its causes, how it differs from moon face and tips to manage it.
What is cortisol face?
Cortisol face refers to facial swelling or puffiness that can occur when cortisol levels are elevated for extended periods. It’s not an official diagnosis, and what many people may think is cortisol face may actually be a different medical issue, such as Cushing’s syndrome.
However, stress and skin health are most definitely linked, as research has shown over and over again.
Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays an essential role in managing stress, metabolism, inflammation and immune response.
However, when stress becomes chronic, excess cortisol can cause a range of symptoms, including water retention and inflammation that can contribute to facial puffiness.
People with cortisol face often notice swelling around the cheeks and jawline, and in severe cases, it can extend to the entire face.
How common is it?
Cortisol face isn’t necessarily common, but it may be more prevalent among individuals dealing with chronic stress, poor sleep or high workloads, all of which can elevate cortisol levels.
High cortisol is also observed in individuals with specific medical conditions, such as Cushing’s syndrome, where the body overproduces cortisol.
While not everyone with high cortisol will experience facial puffiness, those who are more prone to fluid retention or inflammation might be more likely to develop this symptom.
Puffy skin and stress
When stress becomes chronic, it triggers prolonged cortisol production. Elevated cortisol levels can affect the body in various ways, including:
- Fluid retention: Cortisol causes the body to retain sodium and excrete potassium, leading to water retention.
- Inflammation: Chronic cortisol production can exacerbate inflammation, affecting skin and blood vessels.
- Reduced collagen production: Cortisol can inhibit collagen synthesis, which may lead to less elastic skin and more noticeable swelling.
As a result, chronic stress doesn’t just impact internal health — it can lead to visible signs of fatigue and stress on the skin.
This link between stress and skin issues has been extensively studied, and puffy skin is one of the many external indicators that stress levels might be affecting physical health.
Cortisol face vs. moon face
While cortisol face and moon face may sound similar — and do share similar symptoms — they differ in underlying causes and characteristics.
Cortisol face refers specifically to puffiness in the face due to elevated cortisol, typically related to stress. It can also be influenced by poor diet, lack of sleep or lifestyle factors.
Moon face is condition where the face appears round and swollen, typically due to prolonged use of corticosteroids or conditions like Cushing’s syndrome. Moon face is a hallmark symptom of Cushing’s syndrome, where excessive cortisol leads to more dramatic facial swelling and roundness.
While cortisol face can often be managed with lifestyle changes, moon face may require medical intervention if linked to hormonal disorders or medication side effects.
Other causes
Apart from elevated cortisol, other factors can contribute to facial puffiness, including:
- High-sodium diet: Excess sodium leads to water retention, especially around the face.
- Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates the body, causing it to retain water and resulting in facial puffiness.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions, especially those affecting the sinuses, can lead to temporary facial swelling.
- Sleep deprivation: Poor sleep can exacerbate inflammation and fluid retention, leading to puffy skin.
- Menstrual cycle: Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes lead to fluid retention and facial swelling.
Understanding the cause of puffiness is essential to managing and preventing it, especially if cortisol face seems to be part of a broader set of symptoms.
How to get rid of cortisol face
Reducing cortisol levels and adopting lifestyle habits to manage stress can help alleviate cortisol face. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Reduce stress
Engage in mindfulness, meditation or yoga to reduce daily stress. Even small, daily stress management practices can help lower cortisol levels.
2. Optimize sleep
Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep is linked to higher cortisol levels, which can worsen facial puffiness.
3. Limit high-sodium foods
Reducing salt in the diet can minimize water retention.
4. Stay hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day can help the body release retained fluid, reducing puffiness.
5. Exercise regularly
Physical activity can help lower cortisol levels, reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
6. Anti-inflammatory diet
Foods high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins can help reduce inflammation and cortisol levels.
Some people may also find relief through topical treatments, like cold compresses, facial rollers or certain anti-inflammatory skin care products, although these do not address the root cause of cortisol face.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help.
Conclusion
- Cortisol face serves as a visible reminder of the connection between stress and physical health.
- While it can be distressing, understanding the signs and causes empowers you to manage stress and improve your overall well-being.
- Reducing cortisol levels through lifestyle adjustments, proper hydration, a balanced diet and regular sleep can go a long way in reducing puffiness and promoting healthier skin.
- Addressing cortisol face may also help prevent more serious health issues linked to chronic stress, making it beneficial to focus on these changes for both appearance and health.