Moon Face: Causes, Treatment, And Why It Has Gone Viral

The face condition known as moon face has been garnering eyeballs on social media platforms like TikTok due to the roundness, and puffiness of the face structure. Take a deeper dive into what moon face is, its causes, treatments, and why it’s trending on TikTok.

The term "moon face" has recently gained traction on social media platforms like TikTok, drawing attention due to its distinctive, rounded appearance. This condition, characterized by facial puffiness and a moon-like roundness, has sparked widespread discussions online. Here’s a closer look at what moon face is, its causes, treatments, and why it’s trending on TikTok.

What Is Moon Face?

Moon face describes a noticeable swelling on the sides of the face, giving it a puffy, rounded look reminiscent of a full moon. This swelling occurs when fat deposits accumulate around the sides of the skull, potentially making the face appear so round that the ears may become less visible from the front. While moon face itself is not typically painful, it can impact self-esteem and mental well-being due to its effect on appearance. Have a look at the causes of moon face.

Several factors can lead to moon face:

Corticosteroid Use: Long-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone can cause fat to redistribute, including to the face.

Cushing’s Syndrome: Excessive cortisol production due to this syndrome can result in a moon-face appearance.

Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can contribute to facial puffiness.

Weight Gain: General weight gain can sometimes cause the face to become rounder.

How does one diagnose for moon face? 

Moon face is diagnosed through clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. If corticosteroid use is identified, it is often the primary suspect. For those not on these medications, further investigation may include:

Blood tests
Urinalysis
CT scans
MRI scans

Treatment for moon face depends on its underlying cause:

Adjusting medication: If corticosteroids are the cause, your doctor may adjust the dosage or switch to alternative medications. It is crucial not to alter medication without professional advice.

Managing Cushing’s syndrome: Treatment may involve medications to reduce cortisol, surgery to remove tumors, or radiation therapy.

Addressing hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can help reduce facial swelling in cases of hypothyroidism.

Why is moon face trending on TikTok?

TikTok has amplified awareness of moon face as users share their personal experiences and insights about the condition. This social media buzz has increased visibility and sparked discussions, making moon face a trending topic.

If you are facing the condition, it is the best to consult a health-care expert.