I’m an aesthetics doctor: this is why your jawline is sagging - and what you can do about it
As we age, we often notice subtle changes in our faces - perhaps your jawline isn't as sharp as it once was or you've started to notice some sagging skin around your chin.
These changes, while gradual, can become more noticeable over time and can lead to concerns about a lack of definition in the face. Dr. Janice Brown, a highly regarded aesthetic doctor with over 13 years of experience, explains that the process is completely normal but doesn't have to be inevitable.
“As we age, the skin loses some of its elasticity, but more importantly, the structures that support the skin - like collagen, fat pads, and even bone density - begin to change. It’s a multi-layered process that affects not only how the jawline looks but how it functions. What many people don’t realise is that this natural ageing process can be counteracted with the right strategies and treatments.”
Here’s a breakdown of why your jawline is losing its definition and what you can do to restore it:
Why does the jawline soften with age?
1. Loss of collagen and elastin
Collagen and elastin are the proteins responsible for keeping the skin firm, plump, and resilient. As we age, our body produces less of these essential proteins, resulting in skin laxity and less support for the jawline. This natural reduction can lead to noticeable sagging, especially around the lower face and neck.
2. Fat redistribution
The fat pads in our face naturally shift with age. The fullness in the cheeks that once gave the face youthful volume begins to move downward, causing the midface to lose structure. This shift can lead to the formation of jowls and a softer jawline.
3. Bone resorption
It’s not just the skin that changes with age - the bones underneath do too. The jawbone, in particular, loses density over time, which reduces the structural support it provides to the skin. This loss of bone mass can make the jawline appear weaker and less defined.
4. Skin laxity and gravity
As we get older, our skin’s ability to snap back diminishes. This leads to sagging, especially around the jawline, where gravity naturally takes its toll. It’s this combination of diminished elasticity and the constant pull of gravity that causes the jawline to lose definition.
5. Loss of muscle tone
The muscles around the jawline, like any other muscles, can weaken with age. When these muscles lose their tone, the jawline loses its definition, leading to a more soft, rounded appearance.
6. Lifestyle and environmental factors
Sun exposure, smoking, poor diet, and dehydration are all factors that can speed up the ageing process, particularly in the face. They can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature signs of ageing, including a softer jawline.
How to improve jawline definition
1. Skincare for firmer skin
A consistent skincare routine can do wonders for maintaining skin health and preventing sagging. Retinol and peptides are your best friends when it comes to stimulating collagen production, while hyaluronic acid provides hydration and plumps the skin. Vitamin C also supports collagen synthesis and brightens the skin. And don't forget sunscreen - it's essential for preventing UV-induced collagen breakdown.
Top tip: Incorporate products that target both collagen production and hydration. Using a serum with both peptides and hyaluronic acid can give you the best of both worlds.
2. Non-surgical aesthetic treatments
For those who want more noticeable results without going under the knife, non-surgical treatments can help restore jawline definition. Dermal fillers add volume to the jawline, while Botox can reduce muscle bulk and slim the face. Profhilo works by stimulating collagen and elastin, leaving the skin firmer and tighter.
Top tip: Combine treatments for more holistic results. For instance, Botox for slimming and dermal fillers for structure can work together to define the jawline.
3. Advanced aesthetic procedures
If you're looking for more dramatic results, advanced treatments can provide longer-lasting improvements. PDO thread lifts work by lifting sagging skin and stimulating collagen production, while microneedling with PRP encourages skin renewal. Sculptra, a biostimulatory treatment, gradually restores volume and tightens the skin for long-term jawline firmness.
Top tip: Thread lifts are an excellent option for those looking for immediate lifting effects. Pair them with a skin booster like Profhilo to optimise your results.
4. Lifestyle changes for a stronger jawline
While treatments can provide great results, lifestyle factors also play a big role in maintaining a youthful appearance. Staying hydrated keeps your skin firm and plump, while a healthy diet rich in collagen-boosting foods helps maintain skin structure. Getting enough sleep also prevents the breakdown of collagen, and reducing alcohol and smoking can prevent skin dehydration.
Top tip: Prioritise your health inside and out. The more you focus on nourishing your body, the more it will show in your skin's health.