PCOS Moon Face: Why It Happens & How to Reduce It

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and noticed your face looking rounder or puffier than usual, you’re not alone. Many women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) experience something called moon face—a condition where the face appears swollen, fuller, and rounder.

I know how frustrating it can be to see these unexpected changes in your appearance, especially when dealing with all the other symptoms of PCOS. But don’t worry! In this post, I’ll break down why PCOS moon face happens, what causes it, and most importantly—how to reduce it naturally.

What is Moon Face?

Moon face is a term used to describe facial swelling and puffiness that gives the face a rounded, full appearance. It’s often linked to conditions that cause fluid retention or hormonal imbalances. This isn’t just weight gain—it’s a specific type of bloating that affects the face, making features look softer and less defined.

According to the publication Medical News Today, moon face can be caused by hormonal changes, inflammation, or high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can contribute to fluid retention and swelling. Source

Many women with PCOS struggle with water retention, high cortisol levels, and inflammation—all of which can contribute to moon face. But what exactly causes this frustrating symptom in women with PCOS?

What Causes Moon Face with PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects metabolism, insulin levels, and inflammation. All of these factors can play a role in developing moon face. Here are the main reasons why PCOS may cause a rounder, puffier face:

1. High Cortisol Levels (Stress Hormone Imbalance)

PCOS can put your body in a constant state of stress, leading to higher cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol can cause:

According to the publication Endocrine Reviews, high cortisol levels can lead to weight gain, water retention, and changes in fat distribution, especially in the face and neck. Source

2. Insulin Resistance and Inflammation

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means the body struggles to use insulin properly, leading to higher blood sugar levels and inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause bloating and fluid retention, contributing to moon face.

A study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that women with PCOS often have higher levels of inflammation, which can contribute to facial puffiness and overall swelling. Source

3. Poor Lymphatic Drainage

If you have poor circulation or lymphatic drainage, your body may struggle to remove excess fluid, leading to facial swelling and puffiness. Women with PCOS often experience fluid retention, which can make moon face more noticeable.

4. Water Retention from High Estrogen or Low Progesterone

Hormonal imbalance, especially high estrogen and low progesterone—can cause water retention, leading to puffiness in the face. Many women with PCOS have estrogen dominance, which means there’s too much estrogen relative to progesterone. This imbalance causes the body to hold onto more water, contributing to moon face.

How to Reduce Moon Face with PCOS

The good news? Moon face isn’t permanent! By addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and fluid retention, you can naturally reduce puffiness and restore a more sculpted facial appearance. Here’s how:

1. Lower Cortisol Levels (Reduce Stress!)

Prioritize sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours per night to keep cortisol levels balanced.

Practice stress management – Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help lower cortisol.

Cut back on caffeine – Too much caffeine can spike cortisol levels, making water retention worse.

2. Improve Insulin Sensitivity

Eat a low-carb, high-protein diet – Reducing sugar and processed carbs can stabilize blood sugar levels and lower inflammation.

Take inositol – According to The International Journal of Endocrinology, inositol supplements can improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. Source

3. Reduce Inflammation

Drink spearmint tea – It helps lower inflammation and reduces bloating.

Avoid inflammatory foods – Dairy, gluten, and processed sugar can make swelling worse.

Eat omega-3-rich foods – Salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts can help reduce inflammation.

4. Support Lymphatic Drainage

Facial massage – Using a jade roller or gua sha can help drain excess fluid from your face.

Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps flush out toxins and reduce swelling.

Try dry brushing – It stimulates circulation and reduces fluid retention.

5. Balance Hormones Naturally

Support progesterone levels – Taking magnesium and vitamin B6 can help.

Use adaptogens like ashwagandha – This helps lower cortisol and balance hormones naturally.

Is Moon Face a Sign of PCOS?

Moon face isn’t an official symptom of PCOS, but it can be a side effect of the hormonal imbalances and inflammation that come with the condition. If you’re noticing facial puffiness along with irregular periods, excess facial hair, weight gain, or acne, it might be worth checking in with a doctor to confirm if PCOS is the cause.

Supplements That Help Reduce Moon Face with PCOS

If you’re looking for extra support, certain supplements can help reduce moon face naturally:

Inositol – Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation.

Magnesium – Helps regulate cortisol and reduces water retention.

Omega-3s (Fish Oil) – Lowers inflammation and supports hormonal balance.

Curcumin (Turmeric) – A powerful anti-inflammatory that helps with bloating and puffiness.

Spearmint Tea – Reduces inflammation and supports hormonal balance.

PCOS moon face can be frustrating, but it’s not permanent! By balancing your hormones, reducing inflammation, and improving your insulin sensitivity, you can naturally reduce facial puffiness and feel more like yourself again. Trust me, I’ve been there—but with the right lifestyle changes, I saw a big difference in my face and overall health.

Have you experienced moon face with PCOS? Let’s talk in the comments! I’d love to hear what has helped you.