Understanding “Moon Face”: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Medical Advice

Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt your face appeared rounder or puffier than usual? You might be experiencing a condition known as “moon face” or “cortisol face.” This issue has gained attention on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where users are sharing their experiences and seeking answers.

Medically referred to as moon facies, this condition involves swelling that builds up on the sides of the face, giving it a fuller, more rounded appearance. While some social media trends suggest that stress alone can cause moon face, medical experts warn that the phenomenon is often linked to more serious health concerns or side effects of certain medications.

“The concept of cortisol face trending on social media as a common phenomenon for everyone experiencing stress is largely a myth,” says Dr. Vijay Murthy, a doctor of functional medicine based in London. He explains that moon face is more accurately associated with long-term use of corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone, or with endocrine disorders like Cushing’s syndrome, where elevated cortisol levels lead to noticeable facial changes.

A well-known example of this is Sarah Hyland, star of the television show Modern Family. Hyland has publicly shared her struggles with facial swelling caused by prednisone, a medication she took following her kidney transplants. “I don’t mind when you say that I look pregnant or fat because I know that my face is swollen from medication that is saving my life,” Hyland stated on social media, encouraging others experiencing similar issues to persevere.

The Cleveland Clinic highlights that long-term corticosteroid use is the most common cause of moon face. These medications, while essential for treating various conditions, can lead to fluid retention and fat redistribution, contributing to the characteristic facial swelling. Other health conditions, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome, can also result in a moon face appearance.

For those experiencing moon face, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to medication or lifestyle. “This could involve medication adjustments, hormone therapy, or lifestyle changes, depending on the specific cause,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a physician at the University of Southern California’s Keck Medicine.

In the meantime, there are lifestyle modifications that may help reduce the appearance of facial swelling. These include:

• Reducing salt and processed food intake to minimize fluid retention.
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Ensuring adequate sleep to reduce overall inflammation.

While social media can offer support and raise awareness, relying solely on online advice can be risky. Dr. Joel Kopelman, a facial plastic surgeon in New York, advises against self-diagnosis or self-treatment based on social media trends. “It’s not advisable to rely solely on TikTok strategies or self-diagnosis,” he cautions, emphasizing that professional guidance is essential to effectively and safely manage any health concern.

If you notice persistent facial swelling or changes, seek medical advice to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Moon face can often be managed effectively with the right approach, helping you regain your confidence and well-being.

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