A "stress face" refers to a puffy or bloated facial appearance resulting from elevated cortisol levels in the body. This is caused by the body's release of cortisol, the stress hormone, in response to stress. The visible effects include chubby cheeks, a rounded jawline, and puffy eyes.
Understanding the Connection Between Stress and Facial Appearance
The appearance of a "stress face" is directly linked to the body's physiological response to stress. When experiencing stress, the body releases cortisol. High levels of cortisol can lead to fluid retention, which manifests as puffiness in the face. This is not the only way stress impacts your face, however.
Other Stress-Related Facial Changes:
- Dry Skin: Chronic stress can negatively impact skin hydration, leading to dryness and dullness. [Healthline - 10 Effects of Stress on Your Face]
- Wrinkles: Repeated facial muscle tension from stress can contribute to premature wrinkles and sagging skin. [Healthline - 10 Effects of Stress on Your Face]
- Acne: Stress can exacerbate existing acne or trigger new breakouts. [Healthline - 10 Effects of Stress on Your Face]
- Facial Tension: Stress can cause muscle tension in the face, neck, and shoulders, resulting in headaches and discomfort. [Healthline - Facial Tension]
- Rashes: In individuals with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or allergies, stress can trigger or worsen rashes. [Scripps Health - Can You Get A Skin Rash From Stress?]
It's important to note that the "moon face" trend on TikTok, although associated with stress, requires further scientific validation. [CNN - Stress and 'moon face'] The connection between stress and facial appearance is complex and can manifest in various ways beyond just puffiness. The perception of a "stress face" can be subjective and influenced by individual differences in stress responses and facial features. [NCBI - In the face of stress]
