Have you ever taken a glance in the mirror and noticed your face seems a bit puffier or more stressed than usual? You might be experiencing what's known as cortisol face. Often referred to as "moon face," cortisol face gives your face a puffy, swollen appearance, making it look more bloated than usual. And believe it or not, this happens more frequently than you might think.

“Women are twice as likely to suffer from high cortisol levels than men,” says nutrition expert Riya Lakhani-Kanji. “This can sometimes manifest as noticeable changes in your facial appearance, commonly referred to as "cortisol face.”

Understanding Cortisol Face: What Is It?

Cortisol face, a term that's been cropping up more frequently these days, is essentially the visible impact of elevated cortisol levels on your appearance. Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is essential for a range of bodily functions. But when it's persistently high, it can lead to a variety of cosmetic changes that many find distressing. 

One of the most noticeable signs is a rounder, fuller face, sometimes accompanied by a ruddy complexion. You might also observe increased puffiness, particularly around the chin and cheeks, giving your face a somewhat bloated look. This puffiness stems from water retention, a side effect of excessive cortisol production. 

Another key indicator is the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Elevated cortisol levels can break down collagen and elastin, two proteins that are crucial for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. As these proteins degrade, your skin can start to lose its youthful appearance, making you look older than your years. 

But it’s not just skin deep. High cortisol can also lead to acne flare-ups, as the hormone triggers excess oil production. These breakouts can appear suddenly and be stubborn to treat, adding to the frustration of those dealing with cortisol face. 

Identifying Early Signs of Cortisol Imbalance

Our bodies have a subtle yet clever way of signalling imbalances. One such instance is when cortisol levels are off balance. You might notice puffiness or swelling, especially around the eyes. This can be paired with a drop in your skin’s elasticity, leading to adult acne and deeper, more pronounced lines. 

Another tell-tale sign? A sudden change in complexion. An unexpected dullness or blotchiness can creep in, leaving your skin looking tired and fatigued. Alongside these visual cues, you may feel more anxious or stressed than usual, as elevated cortisol often goes hand-in-hand with mood swings. 

Fatigue, despite a full night's sleep, is another red flag. This combined with an increase in sugar cravings can signal that your body is struggling to balance its stress hormone. If you find yourself in this scenario, awareness is the first step towards calmer days and a rejuvenated face.

Supplements to Help Reverse Cortisol Face

If you're battling the effects of a cortisol overload, there are supplements that can help you regain balance and restore your radiant glow. Here are some powerful allies in your fight against cortisol face: 

Magnesium 

Magnesium, hailed for its calming effects, truly stands as a hero mineral when it comes to taming cortisol levels. This essential mineral works wonders by soothing your nervous system, a godsend for anyone caught in the throes of high stress. Whether you're grappling with work pressures or life's never ending demands, magnesium can be your ally in the quest for tranquillity. Incorporating a magnesium supplement into your daily routine could be the perfect step towards achieving a balanced and serene state of mind.

Magnesium is also called "the mighty mineral" because the cells in our body depends on magnesium in regulating day-to-day metabolic reactions to help in the process of cell division and protein synthesis, to facilitate proper muscle and nerve function, and in maintenance of normal bones and teeth. Claims substantiated by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority).

Ashwagandha 

Incorporating Ashwagandha into your routine could be your secret weapon against stress-induced facial changes. Known for its powerful adaptogenic properties, this herb has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. How does it help? By stabilising your body's physiological processes, Ashwagandha effectively reduces the impact of cortisol, providing a natural and gentle way to support your adrenal glands. 

Vitamin C 

More than just an immunity booster, Vitamin C is a powerhouse when it comes to managing cortisol levels. As a potent antioxidant, it shields your body from oxidative stress triggered by elevated cortisol. By incorporating a Vitamin C supplement into your daily routine, you're taking a significant step toward achieving clearer, healthier skin.

The timeline for supplements to improve cortisol face symptoms can vary depending on individual factors like stress levels, diet, and overall health. However, people may start to notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent use. It's important to be patient and combine supplementation with other healthy lifemy choices for the best results.

Riya Lakhani-Kanji MSc ANutr is a registered nutritionist and health writer. Equipped with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Human Nutrition, Riya leverages her scientific knowledge to create engaging content that empowers people to embrace the power of plants.