Did you know that most people develop jowls as they age? Located underneath the chin, the saggy areas of skin are typically caused by ageing. The level of sagging can vary but left untreated, they can cause issues with self-confidence.
So, what causes jowls to develop in the first place and is it purely down to ageing? Here, we look at the main causes of jowls, and how you can treat and prevent jowls.
What are the main causes of jowls?
Jowls can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- A reduction in collagen and elastin
- Environmental/lifestyle factors
- Genetics
As you age, your skin starts to lose its collagen and elastin. These are proteins that make up the connective tissues, keeping the skin firm and supple. As the amount of collagen and elastin produced in the body declines, gravity begins to take over. In the face, your cheeks and mouth area start to lose their firmness. This causes the skin to begin to droop down, leading to the development of jowls.
In some cases, jowls are also caused by environmental and lifestyle factors. It could be you have lost weight, or you make certain facial expressions that contribute to sagging skin. Smoking can also speed up the ageing process by damaging collagen and elastin.
Genetics can also play a role, as well as determine how noticeable the jowls are. If your parents have them, there is a good chance you’ll develop them too as you age.
Can you prevent jowls?
It may be possible to prevent jowls from developing, but in most cases, they are down to the natural ageing process. If you want to prevent them from developing prematurely, you can follow these simple tips…
Reduce your sun exposure – Damage from UV rays can speed up the ageing process. To reduce the risk of developing jowls early, it’s a good idea to reduce your sun exposure. When you are out in the sun, always wear adequate sunscreen, and try to avoid being out in the sun during peak times.
Quit or avoid smoking – The nicotine and thousands of other chemicals contained in cigarettes can damage the collagen and elastin in the skin. Avoiding smoking or quitting is a great way to minimise the risk of developing jowls.
Limit your screen time – Spending long periods of time looking down at a screen can cause the neck area to become scrunched up. This in turn can cause it to start to sag, as well as develop fine lines and wrinkles. Always try and look at your screens in a natural, comfortable position.
Your options for treating jowls
If you do develop jowls, the good news is there are ways to eliminate them. Two of the best procedures to tackle this common problem are a facelift and injectable dermal fillers.
A facelift can provide a drastic improvement in the firmness of the skin. You could also potentially undergo a neck lift to minimise the signs of ageing in the jowl area. Dermal fillers are great for restoring lost volume, providing a natural lift.
To find out which treatment option is right for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock today.
