India, April 19 -- A puffy face after a long week, under-eyes that don't quite bounce back, skin that looks dull for no clear reason? Last year, social media was filled with what it dubbed "cortisol face". Now, it has gone viral again with YouTuber Mira Kapoor speaking about lymphatic drainage as one fix, as experts call it an oversimplification. Stress does leave its mark on the face, and it doesn't look the same for everyone. Dermatologists say the face is often the first place chronic stress shows. "The 'cortisol face' trend is the internet's crude shorthand for a real phenomenon: chronic stress accelerates ageing," says Dr Satish Bhatia, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Indian Cancer Society, Mumbai. This can appear as a mix of subtle, visible changes: puffiness around the cheeks and under-eyes, acne flare-ups, dullness, and early fine lines. "Cortisol affects how salt and water move in tissues, which can lead to fluid retention. This shows up puffiness around cheekbones or under eyes," he explains. Stress can also accelerate collagen breakdown, weaken skin structure, and trigger low-grade inflammation. What makes the trend resonate is how closely it ties appearance to emotional well-being. "When stress becomes constant, the body stays in a heightened state. Sleep suffers, energy dips, and over time, it can lead to anxiety, burnout, and a persistent sense of exhaustion. And when those changes begin to reflect on your face, it can quickly turn into a cycle," shares Dr Vinay Saini, psychiatrist, Maarga Mind Care, Gurugram. "'Cortisol face' is not a formal medical diagnosis; it is mainly a social media term," says Dr David Chandy, director of Endocrinology at HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai. A puffy face alone may reflect sleep loss, salt intake, allergies, or fluid retention, and is not specific to cortisol-related conditions....