Other than Wrinkles, What Really Makes Our Faces Look Older?

22 Feb Other than Wrinkles, What Really Makes Our Faces Look Older?

When we think about ageing, wrinkles and sagging skin are often the first things that come to mind. However, many other subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes contribute to an older appearance. Understanding these factors can help you take a more targeted approach to maintaining a youthful look.

1. Volume Loss & Fat Redistribution

One of the biggest contributors to facial ageing is the loss and redistribution of fat. When we are young, fat pads in our face are plump and well-positioned, providing a naturally lifted look. As we age, these fat pads shrink and shift downwards, leading to:

• Hollowing in the cheeks and temples, making the face appear more gaunt
• Deepening of the under-eye area, creating dark circles and a tired expression
• Loss of lip volume, resulting in thinner lips and less defined contours

2. Changes in Skin Texture & Quality

Skin quality changes over time, making it appear less vibrant and smooth. Some common concerns include:

• Dullness and an uneven tone due to slower cell turnover
• Rougher texture as collagen and elastin production decline
• Enlarged pores caused by a loss of elasticity, making skin appear less refined

3. Discolouration & Pigmentation

Years of sun exposure and environmental factors can lead to noticeable pigmentation changes, including:

• Age spots and sunspots from accumulated UV damage
• Redness and broken capillaries as blood vessels weaken
• Uneven pigmentation due to irregular melanin distribution

4. Bone Resorption (Facial Bone Loss)

Facial bones provide the foundation for our features, but with age, bone resorption occurs, leading to:

• A shrinking jawbone, reducing lower-face support and contributing to sagging
• Widening of the eye sockets, causing a more hollow or sunken look
• Flattening of the cheekbones, making the mid-face appear less lifted

5. Loss of Facial Muscle Tone

Muscles in the face weaken over time, leading to a loss of definition and structure. This results in:

• Heaviness in the lower face, contributing to jowls
• A less lifted appearance in the cheeks, making the face appear flatter

6. Eyebrow & Eyelid Changes

Our eyes play a huge role in how young or tired we look. With age:

• Brows begin to droop, leading to a tired or stern expression
• Eyelids become hooded as skin laxity increases, making eyes appear smaller

7. Lip & Mouth Ageing

The mouth area is particularly prone to visible ageing due to constant movement and collagen loss. This includes:

• Deepening of marionette lines and nasolabial folds (lines running from the nose to the mouth and chin)
• Vertical lines above the lips, often called ‘smoker’s lines’, even in non-smokers

8. Neck & Jawline Ageing

The neck often betrays age just as much as the face. With time, you may notice:

• ‘Turkey neck’ – loose, sagging skin due to a loss of collagen and muscle tone
• Jowls forming as the jawline loses its definition

9. Loss of Hydration & Plumpness

Hydration is essential for youthful-looking skin. As we age:

• Skin retains less moisture, leading to dehydration and increased visibility of fine lines
• A loss of elasticity means the skin doesn’t ‘bounce back’ as it once did

How to Address These Signs of Ageing

While ageing is a natural process, there are many ways to slow it down and maintain a fresh, youthful look. Treatments such as skin boosters, fillers, and advanced skincare can help replenish lost volume, improve skin texture, and restore hydration. Investing in sun protection, a healthy diet, and professional treatments tailored to your needs can make a significant difference in how your face ages over time.

If you’d like personalised advice on how to combat these signs of ageing, get in touch with us to explore the best options for you!