Facial sagging or sagging is a widespread concern, affecting both men and women. More than just a sign of aging, it is a palpable indicator of the loss of elasticity and firmness in the skin, resulting in a less youthful and firm appearance.
In this article, we will explore in detail the topic of facial sagging, from its fundamental causes to the symptoms that characterize it. We will also examine the variety of cosmetic products available to address this condition, analyzing their benefits and effectiveness. Facial sagging is especially prevalent in women over the age of 30, when the volume decrease in the deep layers of the skin begins, altering the shape of the face and erasing the natural contours.
As you move into your 40s and 50s and menopause, your skin becomes more susceptible to sagging due to loss of elasticity and collagen. Additionally, factors such as sun exposure, genetics, weight changes, and lifestyle also play an important role in this process.
Causes of facial sagging
- Natural aging: As we age, collagen and elastin production in the skin decreases, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness.
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can damage collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to increased sagging.
- Rapid weight loss: Abrupt weight loss can cause the skin to lose its elasticity and not contract properly, resulting in sagging.
- Genetic factors: Genetic predisposition can influence the quality of the skin and its tendency to become sagging over time.
- Smoking: Smoking can negatively affect blood circulation in the skin and decrease collagen production, contributing to facial sagging.
- Oxidative stress: Oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as pollution and emotional stress can damage skin cells and accelerate the aging process.
- Dehydration: Dehydrated skin tends to look saggier and less firm, as adequate hydration is essential to maintain its health and elasticity.
- Hormonal changes: During menopause in women, the decrease in hormone production can affect the structure and firmness of the skin, contributing to facial sagging.
Signs of facial sagging
- Loss of definition in the facial oval: The skin around the jaw and neck may appear less toned and defined, contributing to a less youthful appearance.
- Visible wrinkles and folds: Facial sagging can manifest itself as deep wrinkles and folds in areas such as the cheeks, forehead, and around the mouth and eyes.
- Loss of elasticity in the skin: The skin may feel less firm to the touch and may appear looser and less elastic.
- Lowering of facial structures: Facial tissues may begin to shift downward due to gravity, which can lead to the appearance of bags in the cheeks and sagging in the chin and neck area.
- Loss of facial volume : In addition to sagging skin, there may be a loss of volume in certain areas of the face, contributing to an aged and worn appearance.
- Less tight and firm skin around the eyes: Sagging in the upper and lower eyelids can lead to the appearance of droopy, fatigued eyes.
- Reduced resilience: Skin may take longer to recover after being stretched or pinched, indicating a decrease in its elasticity and firmness.
What can I do to prevent loss of firmness?
To prevent, the key is in daily care and adopting a series of habits and practices that help maintain the elasticity and firmness of the skin.
- Sun protection and limiting sun exposure: Use sunscreen daily and limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak solar radiation hours. Wear hats when outdoors for long periods to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause damage to collagen and elastin fibers, contributing to sagging.
- Hydration and skin care: Keep the skin well hydrated both internally and externally. Drink enough water and use moisturizers to keep your skin soft and supple. Additionally, use skin care products that contain ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. These help stimulate collagen production and keep skin firm and toned. Implement daily skin care, including gentle cleansing, proper hydration, and the use of anti-aging products.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which help keep skin healthy and combat damage caused by free radicals. Include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats in your diet. Avoid smoking, as tobacco negatively affects blood circulation in the skin and contributes to the loss of elasticity and firmness. Avoid smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke to protect the health of your skin. Also, avoid sudden changes in weight, as fluctuations can stretch the skin and contribute to sagging. Try to maintain a stable, healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
What cosmetic products help improve sagging?
- Retinol: They stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Intensely hydrates the skin, filling in fine lines and promoting softness and firmness.
- Collagen: Provides structure and firmness to the skin, helping to improve its elasticity.
- Vitamin C: Antioxidants that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting collagen production and improving texture.
- Niacinamide: Helps strengthen the skin barrier, improves elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
- Centella asiatica: It has anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates collagen production, improving skin firmness.
- Shea Butter: Provides deep hydration and essential nutrients to keep skin soft and supple.
- Vegetable oils (avocado, sweet almond): They contain fatty acids and nutrients that hydrate and nourish the skin, improving its elasticity and firmness.
- DMAE: Known as dimethylaminoethanol, DMAE helps improve the firmness and appearance of skin by stimulating collagen production and reducing sagging.
