What is “Moon Face” and Why Is It Linked to PCOS?

What is “Moon Face” and Why Is It Linked to PCOS?

Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed your face looks rounder, puffier, or more swollen than usual—almost like a full moon staring back at you? 🌝 You're not alone.

This is commonly known as “moon face,” and for many women (myself included), it can be one of those frustrating and confusing symptoms of PCOS and hormonal imbalance that no one really talks about.

I remember feeling so disheartened when my face would appear swollen out of nowhere, not realising for a long time that it was actually my hormones—and not just “bad luck” or something I ate the night before.

Let’s break it down.

So, What Actually Causes Moon Face in PCOS?

"Moon face" refers to a noticeable roundness and puffiness in the face, often caused by hormonal shifts, fluid retention, and fat redistribution—all of which are common in women with PCOS.

Here are some of the main underlying causes:

💥 High Cortisol (Stress Hormone)

Chronically elevated cortisol from stress or over-exercising can promote inflammation and water retention—especially in the face.

👉 Sipping on our calming Zenhood Tea each evening can help reduce cortisol levels, support your adrenals, and promote a more restful, healing sleep—something your hormones will thank you for.

🧬 Hormonal Imbalances

High levels of estrogen, cortisol, and insulin—and low levels of progesterone—can lead to fluid retention and fat accumulation in the face.

👉 This is where our Cysterhood Tea can be a powerful support tool—it’s been lovingly formulated to help rebalance hormones naturally and gently, making it a go-to daily blend for many in our community.

🍭 Insulin Resistance

One of the most common PCOS drivers, insulin resistance, not only impacts blood sugar and weight but can also lead to puffiness and swelling, including in the face.

👉 A cup of Chaihood Tea during that 3pm slump is a great way to reduce cravings, support healthy blood sugar levels, and help fight inflammation—all while tasting delicious.

Common Symptoms of PCOS-Related Moon Face

If you’re experiencing moon face, you might notice:

• A rounder, fuller appearance in your face
• Puffiness or bloating, especially in the cheeks or under the eyes
• A more prominent double chin
• Puffy eyelids
• Increased facial hair or acne due to androgen excess

It’s important to know that you’re not imagining things—and it’s not just “weight gain.” It’s a hormonal response, and it can be managed naturally with the right support.

Natural Ways to Help Reduce Moon Face

The good news? You can reduce moon face by supporting your body’s natural balance and addressing the root causes. Here are some of the most effective things that helped me (and many others in our community):

💧 Balance Hormones & Lower Inflammation

• Switch from HIIT to cortisol-conscious workouts like walking, pilates, or yoga
• Prioritise protein and healthy fats at every meal to balance blood sugar
• Eat more whole, colourful plant-based foods
• Avoid ultra-processed, high-sodium, and inflammatory foods
• Sip on Cysterhood Tea daily to gently support overall hormone balance
• 🚶♀️ Support Insulin Sensitivity
• Incorporate daily movement, especially after meals
• Try supplements like Berberine, Zinc, and B12 (always consult your practitioner)
• Focus on consistent mealtimes and blood sugar-friendly meals
• Enjoy a cup of Chaihood Tea to help stabilise blood sugar and curb cravings

🌿 Detox & Reduce Water Retention

• Drink plenty of filtered water
• Use herbs and adaptogens known to support hormone balance and reduce puffiness such as:
  Nettle Leaf, Lady’s Mantle, Lemon Balm, Alfalfa Leaf, Passionflower, Tulsi, Skullcap, Lavender, Ashwagandha
  (All found in our carefully curated Cysterhood, Zenhood, and Chaihood blends)
• Incorporate infrared saunas and body brushing to support lymphatic drainage
• Aim for daily bowel movements to support detox pathways
• Consider reducing salt intake (especially hidden sodium in packaged foods)

🧘♀️ Manage Stress

• Make time for mindful breathing, meditation, or relaxation rituals
• Sip Zenhood Tea in the evenings to lower cortisol and promote relaxation
• Prioritise restful sleep and create boundaries around stressors

You're Not Alone in This

If you’ve been struggling with moon face and feeling frustrated or self-conscious, please know that it’s not your fault—and there are natural, supportive ways to address it.

Start with small, sustainable changes and give your body the love and balance it needs. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

And if you’re looking for extra support, our PCOS to Wellness herbal blends were designed with this in mind—to help reduce inflammation, balance hormones, regulate blood sugar, and lower cortisol levels, naturally. 🌿

👉 Explore Zenhood, Chaihood, and Cysterhood to support your moon face healing journey.

With love,
Brigitte x
Founder of PCOS to Wellness