The truth about ‘moon face’: Understanding the real medical condition behind this TikTok trend

This illustration from the Cleveland Clinic shows the appearance of a patient with moon face, a condition that has become popular in online discussion, sometimes with incomplete or inaccurate information.
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A recent survey found that more than 55% of Millennial and Gen Z TikTok users acknowledge being influenced by or frequently adopting nutrition trends they encounter on the platform. Unfortunately, only approximately 2% of these trends align with established public health and nutrition guidelines. This gap has raised alarms in the medical community, increasing the concern about TikTok’s potential to spread misinformation — especially when it comes to serious health issues that demand accurate, science-based knowledge.

Take “moon face,” for example. While it’s often used lightheartedly on social media to describe a puffy or rounded face, it is essential to understand that true moon face is a medical condition with specific causes and implications. Also known as “cortisol face,” moon face results from prolonged use of corticosteroid medications or hormonal imbalances, particularly in conditions like Cushing syndrome, where the body produces excessive cortisol.

Gowri Reddy Rocco, MD

Beyond facial fullness, moon face can also lead to fat deposits in other areas, such as the back of the neck — referred to as the “buffalo hump” — and above the collarbone. Recognizing these symptoms is critical for identifying the underlying cause and pursuing appropriate treatment.

Undoubtedly, the rise of platforms like TikTok has accelerated the spread of health-related trends, often making it hard to distinguish between entertainment and legitimate medical advice. While content creators may not intend to misinform, the viral nature of these trends can lead to confusion or potential harm — particularly for conditions like moon face, which require professional diagnosis and careful management.

The culprits behind moon face

Corticosteroid medications: These powerful drugs, often used to treat inflammatory conditions, can disrupt the body’s cortisol balance, leading to moon face as a side effect.

Cushing syndrome: This rare disorder involves the overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands, causing a range of symptoms, including puffiness of the face.

Other conditions: In some cases, moon face may be associated with other health issues like obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome, although the link is less direct than with corticosteroid use or Cushing syndrome.

Treatment and reversibility

The key to addressing the moon face lies in identifying its underlying cause. If it’s medication-related, we can explore adjusting the dosage or considering alternative medications. In cases of Cushing syndrome, options like surgery, radiation or medication are available to manage cortisol levels. Exploring supplements like fish oil and vitamin C is also a more accessible solution. Furthermore, specific diets may need to include more anti-inflammatory foods and lean protein. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha should be considered to assist bodies to cope better with stress.

Other tips include aiming for at least seven hours of restful sleep, finding a consistent exercise routine and making sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping an eye on sodium intake and incorporating herbal teas can also make a noticeable difference.

The treatment usually requires patients to go back to the basics of healthful practices, which are often neglected due to the influence of social media trends, complicating the situation.

Incorporating mindfulness practices and nurturing social connections can further support the body’s natural healing processes.

The social media phenomenon: Not all puffy faces are “moon face”

While “moon face” has gained popularity as a social media buzzword, it’s crucial to remember that not every instance of facial swelling signifies a medical condition. Many factors can contribute to temporary puffiness, including the following:

Water retention: Dietary choices, hydration levels and even hormonal fluctuations can influence fluid retention in the body, leading to a puffy face.

Weight gain: As we gain weight, our faces can also become rounder and fuller.

Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can dehydrate the body and cause facial swelling.

Dietary factors: Diets high in salt, sugar and processed foods can contribute to water retention and inflammation, affecting facial appearance.

It’s important to remember that these lifestyle factors typically cause temporary changes, unlike the more persistent swelling seen in true moon face.

The importance of professional guidance

The widespread use of “moon face” on social media presents an opportunity for physicians to educate the public about the difference between medical conditions and lifestyle-induced changes. Raising awareness about the true causes and symptoms of moon face empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and seek appropriate medical advice when necessary.

Each day, primary care physicians are on the front lines of medicine, interacting with patients and addressing any misguided beliefs or medical misinformation that patients may bring into the examination room.If your patients are concerned about changes in their facial appearance, remind them they need to consult a health care professional rather than relying on self-diagnosis or social media trends. With a thorough evaluation, medical professionals can identify underlying conditions and provide tailored treatment recommendations.

Gowri Reddy Rocco, MD, is double board-certified in family medicine and regenerative, anti-aging and functional medicine. Known by her patients as The Wellness Warrior, she’s been practicing medicine for more than 20 years and is the founder and president of Optimum Wellness & Longevity in Corona, California. She has a successful practice alongside her husband, Dr. Robert Rocco, and is the proud mother of three amazing children.