Forget ‘Ozempic Face,’ TikTokers are worried about a new skin woe known as ‘Cortisol Face.’ My For You Page has been flooded with people complaining about a puffy face due to high levels of cortisol from daily stress, but before I get sucked into yet another internet craze, I chatted with a physician and a dermatologist to learn more about Cortisol Face, because should we really be concerned? Let’s find out.
Should I Be Concerned About Cortisol Face? A Physician and a Dermatologist Weigh in on the Latest TikTok Trend
Here’s what you should know
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Published Sep 6, 2024
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Meet the Experts
- Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and founder of PFRANKMD. He has over 20 years of experience in the field, specializing in injectables, lasers and other cosmetic rejuvenation. He received his medical degree from New York Medical College and training in Internal Medicine at New York’s Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center. Dr. Frank completed his dermatology residency at NYU Langone Medical Center.
- Dr. Todd Dorfman is a board-certified emergency physician, medical director of Cedalion Health and chief medical officer at Rebalance Health. Dr. Dorfman has over 25 years of experience and specializes in age management medicine, hormone replacement therapy and nutritional guidance.
What Is Cortisol Face?
According to TikTok, daily stress can lead to facial swelling and bloating—aka ‘Cortisol Face.’ Users believe high levels of the hormone cortisol can contribute to this round, puffy appearance. While the experts believe stress can play a role in your body changes, other factors may lead to puffier cheeks, swelling under the eyes and/or a more rounded face shape. And since Cortisol Face is not an official medical diagnosis, the trend is often confused for another health condition. “When cortisol levels are high, it can lead to redistribution, particularly around the face,” Dr. Dorfman says. “This often results in what is commonly referred to as ‘Moon Face.’ This specific condition is frequently associated with chronic stress or conditions, where excessive cortisol is produced.”
OK, What’s the Difference Between Moon Face and Cortisol Face?
As Dr. Dorfman explains, ‘Moon Face’ can be an indicator of chronic stress or hormonal imbalance due to long term corticosteroid use, hormonal changes, diet, etc. Cortisol Face is often viewed as pain-free, temporary and reversible. On the other hand, Moon Face may require medical attention, so consider reaching out to a healthcare provider for more information on managing cortisol levels and swelling.
What Are Signs of Cortisol Face?
Per TikTok, the obvious signs are puffiness under the eyes and cheeks, as well as a fuller, more rounded face shape. However, Dr. Dorfman points out that there are other noticeable signs to Cortisol Face such as acne breakouts, thinning skin, wrinkles and fine lines. “Skin may become more fragile and more translucent, along with an increase in oil production, which leads to acne and other skin issues,” he adds. On the flip side, low levels of cortisol can lead to skin darkening (like gums or skin folds), fatigue or weight loss.
Should I Be Concerned with Cortisol Face?
Contrary to what TikTok “experts” would have you believe, cortisol is actually good for the body. The hormone helps regulate stress, while also working to control blood pressure, blood sugar and inflammation. Dr. Frank says you shouldn’t be too concerned with Cortisol Face unless you believe you’re dealing more with signs of Moon Face or cushing syndrome—a rare condition where the body produces too much cortisol and makes it harder to regulate it. He notes, “If there are increased levels of cortisol—above and beyond what is needed—it can create puffiness and potentially change the shape of your face. However, this is from chronic increase of cortisol levels,” he explains. “You should really be more concerned about overall stress and lifestyle issues. Cortisol Face is just a look that can be associated with a lot of multi-factorial issues.”
So, What Actually Causes a Puffy Face?
There are numerous things that can cause a puffy face. As Dr. Frank explains, “It’s not one particular thing, and certainly cortisol isn’t the only thing to blame when our faces are round and puffy. Let’s face it—we just feel puffy sometimes.” Most common attributes include high salt intake, diet, alcohol, medication, lack of sleep and allergies. For some extreme cases, a puffy face can be acute to medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, hypertension and kidney disease.
How Can You Reduce Puffiness?
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to reduce puffiness and/or lower cortisol levels overtime. The experts share a few helpful tips below:
- Apply a cold compress. Whether you prefer an ice roller or ice pack, cold temperatures can help reduce swelling around your face. The experts suggest regular facial massages to boost circulation and improve appearance.
- Exercise regularly. “Exercise is one of the best ways to depuff and destress ourselves. It also helps keep us looking and feeling our best,” says Dr. Frank.
- Place some eye patches on. I’ve found a bunch of ways to depuff eyes, but adding eye patches to your daily skincare routine is a great start. As the experts say, it can help relax the muscles and decrease the depth of wrinkles.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Water intake is very important, so don’t skip out on drinking plenty of H20 throughout the day).
- Consider your diet. The experts say increased salt intake and processed foods can lead to swelling and water retention. Dr. Dorfman recommends adding fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains to help stabilize cortisol levels.
- Create a better sleep routine. It’s all about making smarter lifestyle changes and working on your sleep schedule is one of them.
- Consider healthy supplements. “Look for supplements that target cortisol imbalances and support overall hormonal health,” says Dr. Dorfman.
Bottom Line
Plain old daily stress shouldn’t contribute to dramatic facial changes. If you’re dealing with any swelling, chances are you need to up your water intake, apply a cold compress to your face or change your lifestyle habits. But FYI, having a round face is normal and pretty common. Don’t automatically believe you have Cortisol Face based on what the internet is saying. However, if you are noticing daily swelling and/or puffiness (especially if it feels painful and irritable) consult with a medical professional, who can help you find solutions.
