Maybe you overindulged at happy hour or maybe that big upcoming work meeting kept you tossing and turning all night. There are a number of reasons why you may wake up with a puffier-than-usual face.
And while most of the time it will resolve on its own, there are some things that you can do to help speed up the process. Below, we spoke with dermatologists to learn more about what causes facial puffiness, easy ways to help relieve it and how to know if it's a sign of something more serious (including if it could be the much buzzed about cortisol face).
Keep reading for everything you need to know.
Our top picks
Best products for face puffiness
Best affordable expert pick
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$25.99
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La Roche-Posay Redermic Anti Aging Retinol Serum
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$49.99
La Roche-Posay
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As we said, there are a number of reasons why you may wake up with a puffy face. Some of the most likely culprits include increased salt intake, alcohol consumption or a lack of sleep, which all can increase fluid retention, explains Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a dermatologist at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York. It can also be triggered by pregnancy or changes in the menstrual cycle.
You may also notice that it happens more in the morning. That's because when you're lying horizontally, "yourlymphatic and venous flow is not aided by gravity," says dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. "As a result, fluid congestion causes facial skin to appear more puffy in the morning."
What is "cortisol face"?The term "cortisol face" has recently made the rounds on social media, leaving many people wondering if it is the cause of their perceived puffy or round faces.
"'Cortisol face' refers to the roundness of the face associated with elevated cortisol levels causing both facial edema and fat redistribution," says Murphy-Rose. Cortisol, when chronically elevated, can lead to fluid retention and fat redistribution, especially in the face.
"Cortisol face" is a symptom typically associated with Cushing’s syndrome, which is caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels from internal or external sources, like "the use of corticosteroid medications, adrenal gland tumors, or production of cortisol from other tumors in the body," Murphy-Rose says.
While Murphy-Rose says that everyday stress can also contribute to increased cortisol and puffiness, "this is not considered common among the general population and is usually more subtle than when associated with a medical condition."
The bottom line: “Facial swelling that does not improve after making some type of intervention should be evaluated by a healthcare professional," Camp says.
How do I reduce puffiness in my face?Because salty foods and alcohol are common culprits, avoiding these can help, Camp explains. You can also try sleeping on more than one pillow, which will keep your head propped up, and can "aid the flow of venous blood and lymphatic fluid," he says.
Getting enough sleep every night will also help reduce your chances of waking up puffy. (Not to mention, it's important for your overall health.)
However, things happen and sometimes you overindulge or only manage to get a few good hours of rest in a night. Thankfully, there are a handful of things that can help reduce facial puffiness in those cases.
Massage is one treatment option that the experts recommend. And it can be done using a gua sha, a jade roller or even just your hands. "Massage stimulates lymphatic drainage to move excess fluid away from the face, reducing puffiness and improving circulation in the skin," says Murphy-Rose.
Cold therapy, using things like ice rollers or an ice pack can help reduce inflammation and, as a result, puffiness as well, Camp says.
While you're feeling puffy, you might also want to reach for skin care products with a few specific ingredients. Caffeine is one that constricts blood vessels to help reduce fluid retention and decrease puffiness, Murphy-Rose says — that's why it's so commonly found in creams to help reduce under-eye bags. "Arnicais a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient that also promotes circulation to help reduce puffiness," she adds. Other ingredients like green tea, aloe and cica have anti-inflammatory properties so they can be helpful in these situations.
Below, we're sharing some of the top products experts and editors recommend for when you're dealing with a puffy face.
Best products for face puffiness, according to expertsMonétBeauty Stainless Steel Ice Globes for Facials
Use these stainless steel ice globes to perform a lymphatic massage, resulting in headache relief, decreased puffiness and a brighter complexion, per the brand.
Material: Medical-grade stainless steel, non-toxic anti-freeze liquid inside
What we like
- Easy to clean
- Stays cool for longer time
Something to note
- Hard to use in small areas
Murphy-Rose says that these ice globes are "perfect for a budget-friendlier cryo massage." Keep them stored in the fridge or freezer, so they'll always be chilled for whenever you may need a quick de-puffing session.
According to the brand, while they can be used to help with facial puffiness, they can also be beneficial for headaches, muscle tension and more.
Herbivore Jade De-Puffing Face Roller
This facial massager is said to ease facial muscle tension to reduce puffiness and fine lines
Material: Smooth aventurine stone
What we like
- Cooling on skin
- Easy to use
Something to note
- Breaks easily
"Facial rollers like this one made of jade stone are used primarily to reduce puffiness," Camp says. But that's not the only benefit. He adds that it may also improve skin elasticity, minimize fine lines and enhance product absorption.
Dr. Idriss The Depuffer Roll-On Serum
This roll-on serum works to restore the skin's moisture barrier, shown to reduce puffines.
Size: 40 mL| Key ingredients: Arnica, centella asiatica, niacinamide
What we like
- Cooling effect
- Reduces redness
Something to note
- Strong smell
Both a face roller and de-puffing serum, this product combines the benefits of massage with some key anti-inflammatory ingredients. It contains arnica andcentella asiatica, which Murphy-Rose says helps "to decrease swelling and reduce redness" all in a "convenient all-in-one roller application." The roller can be detached, so you can stick it in the fridge or freezer to get cooling benefits, too.
La Roche-Posay Redermic Anti Aging Retinol Serum
$ 54.99 Ulta
This retinol-based serum combines anti-aging ingredients to reduce fine lines and dark circles.
Size: 1.0 oz| Key ingredients: Retinol, lipo-hydroxy acid, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
What we like
- Quick results
Something to note
- Fragranced
Not only is this serum formulated with retinol to help improve collagen production and the appearance of fine lines, but Camp adds that the caffeine in the formula helps to minimize the look of tired, puffy eyes. "This anti-aging eye cream is gentle enough for use on the sensitive periocular skin," he says.
Not only is it perfect for your undereye area, but it's also designed to be used on wrinkles on the upper lip and forehead. According to the brand, it's best to use the cream at night.
Dermalogica Awaken Peptide Depuffing Eye Gel
Per the brand, this undereye gel works to combat undereye bags and wrinkles, resulting in visibly firming effects.
Size: 15 mL| Key ingredients: Peptide, caffeine, rosemary leave extract
What we like
- Hydrating
- Great for sensitive skin
Something to note
- No SPF
This gel from Dermologica features peptides, caffeine and rosemary leaf extract, which Camp says helps to tighten "and firm the skin and reduce the appearance of tired, puffy eyes."
The brand says that it can work in as little as 10 minutes for both instant and long-term results.
Stacked Skincare by Kerry Benjamin Ice Roller
$ 85.00 Amazon
Ideal for sensitive skin, this ice roller features an ergonomic handle for easy use. The cooling effect reduces puffiness and leaves skin feeling fresh.
Material: Stainless steel barrel
What we like
- Reduces puffiness
Something to note
- Doesn't stay cold for long
Give those problem areas a dose of cold therapy with this ice roller. According to the brand, the egg-shaped barrel is designed to easily glide over the skin and sculpt and lift facial contours. "The ergonomic handle enables comfortable application," Murphy-Rose says.
To use, store in the freezer, take it out and remove the silicone cap and then gently roll over skin.
SkinCeuticals A.G.E Advanced Eye for Dark Circles
This advanced eye cream targets crow's feet, dark circles and puffiness by using a combination of anti-aging ingredients.
Size: 15 mL| Key ingredients: Proxylane, concentrated wild fruit flavinoids, Matrixyl 3000
What we like
- A little goes a long way
- Non-greasy
Something to note
- Slow results
"SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex is a favorite retinol-free eye cream that contains a unique combination of peptides, flavonoids and caffeine to firm, tone and de-puff under-eye skin and optical diffusers to minimize the appearance of dark circles," says Murphy-Rose. "Proxylane and blueberry extract support and fortify the skin matrix and restore water to dehydrated under-eye skin to plump and diminish fine lines. It also contains caffeine."
Best products for face puffiness, according to editorsRosenice Gua Sha Facial Tool
Increase lymphatic flow with this traditional gua sha tool made from 100% jade stone. Pop it in the freezer for additional cooling benefits.
Material: Jade stone
What we like
- Glides well on skin
- Easy to use on all areas
Something to note
- Fragile
Whenever I wake up with a puffy face, my gua sha tool is my first line of defense. (While this isn't the exact tool I have, mine is very similar.) I tend to focus on my neck, chin and the lower half of my face, since that's where I notice the puffiness the most. Usually, after a five-minute session, even if my face isn't completely back to normal, at least some of the puffiness has been reduced. I always bring it with me when traveling, because I know I'm likely to wake up puffy after nights of drinking or staying up late.
The Detox Market Super Chill Facial Pill
Give skin an instant wake-up with this ice mold, designed to reduce puffiness.
Material: Silicone mold
What we like
- Affordable product
- Effective
Something to note
- Remember to fill it with water
When it comes to tackling puffiness under her eyes, associate editor Sierra Hoeger swears by this handy tool. “I got this to try during last year’sBeauty Awardsand recently started using it again! It’s helped the puffiness underneath my eyes immensely, and helps give me a good boost in the morning when I need a little help waking up.”
Esarora Ice Roller
Use this ice roller in the morning to help skin feel refreshed and less puffy.
Material: Plastic and stainless steel roller head
What we like
- Not sticky when rolling
- No leakage
Something to note
- Too large
“I got this ice roller last year and I always keep it in the freezer,” says social media producer Anita Chomenko. “I find myself reaching for it on hot summer days, if I didn’t get a good night’s sleep and when I just feel like giving myself a little facial massage! It feels refreshing, easy to use, and would make a great stocking stuffer. It’s also listed as good for people experiencing migraines and to reduce puffiness and calm inflamed skin.”
Tula H2Oasis Instant Skin Reviving Mask
$ 34.00 Ulta
This mask from TULA uses extracts from desert plants to help skin feel hydrated and refreshed.
Size: 2.7 oz| Key ingredients: S6Pro complex, hyaluronic acid, prickly pear, ceramides
What we like
- Cooling gel texture
- Pre and probiotics formula
Something to note
- Reviews say glitter in formula
"TULA is one of my go-to skin care brands and when I finally tried this mask that launched last year, I was hooked!" says production coordinator Camryn Privette. "And pro tip! I keep mine in my refrigerator so that it's nice and cool upon application and it makes all the difference."
Korress Greek Yoghurt Wide Awake Eye Gel
This nourishing roll-on serum uses a cooling roller to provide instant relief from dark circles and puffiness.
Size: 15 mL| Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, yoghurt, caffeine, peptide
What we like
- Easy application
- Near-instant effect
- Cooling
Something to note
- Slight staining around package
Senior editor Jess Bender is a fan of this solution for puffy under-eyes, which features a cooling roller, to provide a cold massage along with the gel.
“I’ve heard many people sing the praises ofcaffeine for the eye region, so this easy-to-navigate gel roller from Korres (a brand that I’ve loved for a long while) spoke to me and my lazy girl beauty routine. The instant massage the applicator provides does wonders for whatever puffiness I may be feeling in the morning. Plus, I’ve seen a bit of reduction in my under-eye darkness over the span of the last month.”
NuFace Mini Starter Kit
This microcurrent device helps lift skin and visibly reduce puffiness in minutes. Along with the device, you'll get two of the brand's activators to help enhance the process.
Settings: 3| Powered by: Rechargeable battery| Serum included?: Yes
What we like
- 5-minute sessions
- Customizable treatment
Something to note
- Better results with time
Multiple Shop TODAY staffers swear by NuFace’s Mini microcurrent device, saying that when they use it, they notice a difference in their skin’s tightness and overall brightness.
Experts have said that microcurrent devices, like this one, can help give your skin a visible lift. After nights when I've slept poorly or overindulged, I often reach for this device. I tend to see puffiness in my face underneath my chin and under my eyes, so I spend some extra time on those areas when using the device and it helps tighten the areas and relieve some of the puffiness.
Ziip Halo
According to the brand, the Ziip Halo can reduce wrinkles by up to 28% in just six weeks. The gadget is designed to help treat a range of issues, including puffiness, loss of elasticity, crow's feet, uneven skin tone and more.
Settings: : 1+ (more with the ZIIP phone application)| Rechargeable?: Yes| Serum included?: Yes
What we like
- Not time consuming
- Expert recommended
Something to note
- Charging can be inconsistent
Two estheticians that we previously spoke to recommended this device from Ziip, with one noting that they appreciated the accompanying app, where you can access how-to videos.
I was sent the device by the brand and have been loving it for lifting my skin and relieving puffiness. The size of the device is great, as it fits perfectly in your hand and is easy to move around your face. And it really does make a big difference — my skin not only feels tighter but also looks brighter after I use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to reducing puffiness, licensed aesthetician Britta Plug previously told TODAY that you should notice the effects pretty quickly.
"The depuffing happens really quickly because we're working with the lymphatic system to remove any stagnant lymph from the tissue," Plug said. "The lifting, toning and firming are pretty immediate as well."
And while it can have an effect on fine lines and wrinkles, that takes more time.
"With repetition over time, we can see a really big reduction in those chronic expressions being etched into the face," Plug said.
When using ice globes, aesthetician Brit Lanier previously shared that you want to start by applying a moisturizer, lotion or oil to your skin. When you're ready, take them out of the freezer and slowly drag them across your skin using small strokes and circular motions.
"You want to take everything out and down," said Lanier. "You can start in between the brows, pull it around the eyes, under the eyes [and] around the sinuses, then pull it out towards the ears, then down the neck and across the chest."
Puffiness and swelling are different, although physiologically, the two are pretty similar, explains Murphy-Rose. They are both caused by fluid retention in tissues or edema. However, the puffiness that you notice in your face after a night of salty snacking will typically resolve itself relatively quickly with time or lifestyle changes, whereas the effects of facial swelling may be more long-term.
“What one may consider ‘facial swelling’ is typically caused by an underlying medical condition,” Murphy-Rose says. This includes things like “infections, allergies, abnormal functioning of the adrenal gland such as in Cushing’s syndrome, a kidney disorder, thyroid disorder or iatrogenic (meaning medication-induced).”
Inflammation, like from injury or surgery, can also cause fluid retention in your tissues, causing swelling, Murphy-Rose says. You may also notice it as a result of allergic reactions from skin care products or food allergies.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD,is a board-certified cosmetic, medical and surgical dermatologist specializing in facial rejuvenation at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York. She is a clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She is also the founder of the skin care brand Skincare Junkie.
- Dr. Brendan Camp, MD is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. He is an expert at helping patients manage medical conditions such as acne and rosacea, as well as cosmetic concerns.
- Britta Plug is a licensed aesthetician. She is the co-founder of the skin care brand Wildling Beauty.
- Brit Lanier is a licensed aesthetician in Texas.
Facial puffiness is an all-too-common issue, which is why we tapped dermatologists to hear about the potential causes and how to deal with it. We also asked them to share their top products for reducing puffiness and sourced some picks from our editorial team as well.
Emma Stessman
Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY.
