Jowls
Jowls refer to the sagging or drooping skin along the lower jawline, often associated with ageing. As we age, the skin loses elasticity and the supporting fat pads beneath the skin diminish or shift downward, contributing to the formation of jowls.
DID YOU KNOW?
There is a common misconception that invasive procedures are the sole way to address sagging in this area. Non-surgical treatments like fillers, radiofrequency microneedling, and HIFU are increasingly popular alternatives that effectively contour and lift without surgery
What causes jowls?
Jowls are typically caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle habits, and natural ageing processes. Key contributors include:
Ageing: As we age, collagen and elastin levels in the skin decrease, reducing its firmness and elasticity. This causes the skin to lose its ability to “snap back,” resulting in sagging and drooping.
Genetics: A predisposition to developing jowls can run in families. If your parents experienced early signs of jowls, you may be more likely to develop them as well.
Sun Damage: Prolonged UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown, leading to skin that lacks elasticity, contributing to sagging and the formation of jowls.
Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss can leave skin unable to retract properly, causing it to loosen and sag, particularly around the jawline, resulting in jowls.
Smoking: Smoking damages collagen and reduces blood circulation to the skin, which accelerates aging and contributes to the formation of jowls.
What is the best treatment for jowls?
When it comes to addressing jowls, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. While some accept this natural change, often due to ageing, others seek treatments. Though a surgical neck lift may seem like the only solution, for some, jowls can be effectively treated without the need for surgery.
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
Improves the appearance of jowls by using focused ultrasound energy to target deeper layers of skin. This stimulates collagen production, tightens the skin, and lifts the jawline. The result is a more defined, youthful contour, with reduced sagging and firmer skin around the lower face. Best for those looking for non-invasive treatment with results that are created with a ‘no-needle’ approach.
Dermal fillers and Ellanse
Both improve the appearance of jowls by restoring lost volume and providing structural support to the lower face. By injecting fillers into the jawline and cheek area, they lift and contour the skin, reducing the sagging effect of jowls and creating a firmer, more youthful jawline. Best for those with volume loss seeking results that are most visible for 12-18 months.
A Nefertiti neck lift
With muscle-relaxing injections improves the appearance of jowls by relaxing the platysma muscle in the neck and lower face. This reduces downward pull, lifting the jawline and tightening the skin. The result is a smoother, more defined lower face and jaw, minimising sagging jowls. Best for those also wanting to address neck bands. (Link to anti-wrinkle injections)
RF microneedling
Can improve the appearance of jowls by stimulating collagen and elastin production through radiofrequency energy and microneedling. This combination tightens the skin, reduces sagging, and enhances the jawline’s definition, resulting in a firmer, more lifted, and youthful appearance around the lower face and neck. Best for those wanting to also improve skin texture and appearance.
Procedure pairing
With management of any age related change, taking steps to ensure optimum skin quality forms an essential foundation for any injectable or energy based treatments. Our teams favourite products to pair with treatment of jowls are:
Epionce Gentle Cleanser
Supports anti-aging by maintaining the skin’s natural barrier while gently removing impurities. Its hydrating and soothing properties help protect against dryness and irritation, preserving a youthful appearance and enhancing overall skin health.
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet
Supports jowl treatment by combining retinoid and alpha hydroxy acid to improve skin elasticity, firmness, and texture. It boosts collagen production, smoothing sagging skin and enhancing jawline definition for a more youthful appearance.
Revision Skincare’s 30% Vitamin C Lotion
Stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity making it ideal to support treatment of jowls . Its antioxidant-rich formula reduces sagging, brightens skin tone, and enhances firmness, promoting a smoother, more defined jawline and youthful appearance.
Smart Tone ZO SPF
Is a mineral-based sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA/ UVB rays. Its color-adapting technology blends seamlessly with various skin tones, offering a natural finish. The lightweight formula also contains antioxidants, enhancing skin protection from environmental damage while maintaining a smooth, even complexion.
ZO Growth Factor Serum
Contains growth factors and hyaluronic acid that hydrate the outer layer of skin and improves wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin renewal, resulting in increased elasticity, smoother texture, and a more youthful appearance.
