The genetic secret behind aging well
As we age, our facial structure undergoes significant changes, affecting multiple layers including the bone, muscle, fat, and skin. For those with naturally high and prominent cheekbones, also known as the zygomatic bones, these changes often manifest differently than in those with less defined facial architecture. The simple reason is biomechanical: the prominent bone acts as a natural scaffolding, providing support for the overlying skin and fat pads.
Unlike faces with flatter or lower bone structure, where gravity and tissue atrophy can lead to earlier sagging, high cheekbones essentially act as a hanger for the midface. This anatomical advantage means the skin is less prone to drooping or forming deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines. While lifestyle factors like sun exposure and skincare routines are crucial, the foundational role of bone structure cannot be overstated in predicting how one's face will age.
How prominent cheekbones influence facial aging
Several processes contribute to the perception that individuals with high cheekbones age more gracefully:
- Delaying midface descent: As the fat pads in the mid-cheek diminish and shift downwards with age, high cheekbones help to hold these tissues in place for longer, preventing a hollow or deflated look.
- Maintaining jawline definition: By keeping the midface lifted, high cheekbones can help prevent the tissues from settling lower on the face and obscuring the jawline, a process known as jowling.
- Creating youthful contours: The natural shadows and contours created by high cheekbones create a lifted, sculpted appearance often associated with youth and vitality.
- Resisting skin laxity: The stretched, taut skin over a prominent bone structure is more resistant to the visible effects of skin laxity and can prevent the formation of excessive wrinkles in the cheek area.
Comparing cheekbone structure and aging
| Feature | Individuals with High Cheekbones | Individuals with Less Prominent Cheekbones |
|---|---|---|
| Midface Volume | Volume is often better preserved due to a strong underlying bone structure. | Volume loss is more noticeable, leading to a flatter midface. |
| Facial Sagging | Experience less sagging and jowling as the midface skin is better supported. | More susceptible to facial sagging, with tissues drooping faster. |
| Contouring | Naturally defined, with contours that reflect light differently and enhance a youthful look. | Contouring may be less pronounced, leading to a softer or flatter overall appearance. |
| Signs of Aging | Later onset of deeper nasolabial folds and marionette lines. | Earlier formation and deepening of lines around the nose and mouth. |
Can you influence how your cheekbones age?
While genetics provide a powerful head start, lifestyle choices and cosmetic treatments can significantly influence the aging process for everyone. For those without naturally high cheekbones, or those looking to preserve their existing structure, several options are available:
- Skincare and sun protection: Protecting the skin from harmful UV rays is the single most important step to prevent collagen breakdown and preserve skin elasticity, regardless of bone structure.
- Facial exercises: Specific facial yoga routines can help strengthen and tone the muscles supporting the cheek area, which may help hold up the fat pads and reduce sagging.
- Weight management: Maintaining a healthy body fat percentage can help define facial features. However, extreme weight loss can sometimes make facial volume loss more apparent.
- Non-surgical treatments: Dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid can be strategically injected into the cheek area to restore lost volume, lift the midface, and mimic the effects of naturally high cheekbones.
- Surgical options: For a more permanent solution, procedures such as cheek implants or fat grafting can provide lasting volume and definition.
The psychology of high cheekbones and aging
The perception of high cheekbones as a youthful trait is deeply ingrained. Historically, it has been associated with health and vitality across different cultures. The scientific basis for this lies in the “triangle of youth,” an imaginary inverted triangle with the base across the cheeks and the apex at the chin. As we age, facial volume shifts downwards, and this triangle inverts. High cheekbones help maintain the original, upright orientation of this triangle, projecting an image of youthfulness. Ultimately, while high cheekbones provide a considerable anti-aging advantage, consistent skincare and a healthy lifestyle are essential for everyone to age gracefully. You can learn more about how facial features affect the perception of age from the scientific journal Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
Conclusion
Do people with high cheekbones age well? The answer is a resounding yes, due in large part to their genetic bone structure. This strong framework provides superior support to the skin and underlying tissues, resisting the effects of gravity and volume loss that cause sagging and wrinkles. While this is a significant advantage, it is not a complete shield against aging. Lifestyle choices like sun protection and treatments such as dermal fillers also play a crucial role in maintaining a youthful appearance. Understanding this interplay between genetics and lifestyle empowers individuals to take proactive steps to care for their skin and preserve their facial contours for years to come.
