How to Get Rid of Jowls: Tips and Treatments

If you’re dealing with sagging jowls, you’re not alone. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and gravity takes its toll, causing the skin around the jawline to droop and sag. But there are steps you can take to minimize the appearance of jowls and even reverse them.

1. Exercise Your Face

One way to combat sagging jowls is to exercise the muscles in your face. This can help tone and tighten the skin around the jawline, reducing the appearance of jowls. Try exercises like chin lifts, cheek lifts, and jaw clenches.

• Chin Lifts: Tilt your head back and look at the ceiling. Pucker your lips like you’re blowing a kiss and hold for five seconds.
• Cheek Lifts: Smile as wide as you can and lift the corners of your mouth towards your ears. Hold for five seconds.
• Jaw Clenches: Tighten your jaw muscles and hold for five seconds. Repeat five times.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Carrying excess weight can contribute to sagging jowls. When you gain weight, the fat cells in your face can expand, causing the skin to stretch and sag. Losing weight can help minimize the appearance of jowls and prevent them from getting worse.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet and staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, such as walking, hiking, or swimming. Exercise not only helps you lose weight, but it also improves circulation and can give your skin a healthy glow.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can contribute to sagging skin, including jowls. When you’re dehydrated, your skin loses elasticity and can appear dull and lifeless. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated and supple, reducing the appearance of jowls.

Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and more if you’re active or live in a hot climate. You can also boost your hydration by eating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

4. Use Sun Protection

The sun’s harmful UV rays can damage the elastin and collagen fibers in your skin, causing it to sag and wrinkle. To protect your skin from sun damage, be sure to wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.

Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it liberally to your face and neck before going outside. You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat and stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking is bad for your health, and it’s also bad for your skin. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can damage collagen and elastin fibers, causing your skin to sag and wrinkle prematurely.

If you smoke, quitting can help improve the appearance of your skin and prevent further damage. Talk to your doctor about the best way to quit, whether it’s with nicotine replacement therapy, medication, or counseling.

6. Try Facial Massage

Facial massage can help improve circulation and stimulate the muscles in your face, helping to firm and tone the skin around the jawline. You can do facial massage at home using your fingertips, or book a professional facial at a spa or salon.

To do a facial massage at home, start by washing your hands and face. Apply a few drops of facial oil or serum to your fingertips, and use gentle, circular motions to massage your cheeks, jawline, and neck. Repeat for several minutes, focusing on any areas of tension or soreness.

7. Consider Injectables

If you’re looking for a non-surgical way to improve the appearance of your jowls, injectables like Botox and fillers can be a good option. Botox can help relax the muscles around the jawline, reducing the appearance of sagging, while fillers can add volume to the cheeks and chin, creating a more lifted appearance.

Talk to a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to find out if injectables are right for you, and to learn more about the risks and benefits.

8. Consider Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten loose skin. The procedure works by stimulating collagen production in the deep layers of the skin, helping to lift and firm sagging areas like the jowls.

The treatment takes around 90 minutes, and there is little to no downtime. Results can last for up to two years, and many patients see improvement after just one treatment.

9. Try Radiofrequency Therapy

Radiofrequency therapy is another non-invasive treatment that uses heat to stimulate collagen production and tighten sagging skin. The heat is delivered using a handheld device that is passed over the skin, causing the collagen fibers to contract and tighten.

The treatment is painless and takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Most patients need several sessions to see optimal results, but some notice improvement after just one treatment.

10. Consider a Facelift

If you have severe jowling and are looking for a more permanent solution, a facelift may be the right choice for you. A facelift is a surgical procedure that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the face and neck, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

The procedure takes several hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Recovery time can vary, but most patients can return to work and other normal activities within two to three weeks. Results can last for several years, and can be maintained with healthy lifestyle choices and good skincare habits.

11. What Causes Jowls?

Jowls can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, weight gain, and sun damage. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and gravity takes its toll, causing the skin around the jawline to droop and sag.

Carrying excess weight can contribute to sagging jowls, as the fat cells in the face can expand, causing the skin to stretch and sag. Exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can also damage the elastin and collagen fibers in the skin, leading to sagging and wrinkles.

12. Can You Get Rid of Jowls without Surgery?

Yes, there are non-surgical options for getting rid of jowls. Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, using sun protection, quitting smoking, and getting injectables or non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy and radiofrequency therapy can all help improve the appearance of sagging jowls.

However, if you have severe jowling, a facelift may be the most effective way to achieve significant, long-lasting results.

13. Is Ultherapy Safe?

Yes, Ultherapy is a safe and effective treatment for lifting and tightening sagging skin. The treatment uses ultrasound technology, which has been used for medical purposes for decades, to stimulate collagen production and lift the skin.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential side effects. These may include redness, swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness or tingling. These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days after treatment.

14. How Long Does Ultherapy Last?

Ultherapy can provide long-lasting results, but the duration can vary from person to person. Most patients see improvement immediately after treatment, with full results appearing within two to three months.

The results can last for up to two years, but may vary depending on factors like age, skin type, and lifestyle habits. To maintain the results, you may need to undergo touch-up treatments every 18-24 months.

15. How Much Does Ultherapy Cost?

The cost of Ultherapy can vary depending on factors like the area being treated, the expertise of the provider, and the geographic location. On average, the cost of Ultherapy is around $3,000-$5,000 per treatment.

However, the cost may be less for smaller treatment areas like the neck or brow, and some providers may offer package deals or financing options to make the treatment more affordable.

16. How Does Radiofrequency Therapy Work?

Radiofrequency therapy uses heat to stimulate collagen production and tighten sagging skin. The heat is delivered using a handheld device that is passed over the skin, causing the collagen fibers to contract and tighten.

The treatment is painless and takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Most patients need several sessions to see optimal results, but some notice improvement after just one treatment.

17. What Are the Side Effects of Radiofrequency Therapy?

The side effects of radiofrequency therapy are usually mild and temporary. They may include redness, swelling, and minor discomfort during or after the treatment.

In rare cases, more serious side effects like skin burns or scarring may occur. However, these are very rare and are more likely to occur if the treatment is performed incorrectly or by an unlicensed provider.

18. What is a Facelift?

A facelift is a surgical procedure that involves lifting and tightening the skin and muscles of the face and neck, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and may take several hours to complete.

During a facelift, the surgeon will make incisions around the hairline and ears, then lift and tighten the skin and muscles of the face and neck. The incisions are then closed with sutures or staples.

19. How Long is the Recovery from a Facelift?

The recovery from a facelift can vary depending on factors like the extent of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. However, most patients can expect to take two to three weeks off from work and other normal activities.

During the first few days after surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon will provide instructions for caring for your incisions and managing any pain or discomfort.

It’s important to avoid strenuous activity, exposure to the sun, and anything that puts pressure on your face for several weeks after surgery. You may need to wear a compression garment or bandage to support your face and aid in healing.

20. Conclusion: Finding the Right Treatment for You

If you’re dealing with sagging jowls, there are many treatment options available, from exercises and lifestyle changes to non-invasive treatments and surgical procedures. The best treatment for you will depend on factors like the extent of your jowling, your age and overall health, and your personal preferences and goals.

Talk to a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to learn more about your options and find the right treatment for you. With the right treatment and a commitment to healthy habits, you can improve the appearance of sagging jowls and achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

FAQ

Can You Get Rid of Jowls Without Surgery?

Yes, there are non-surgical options for getting rid of jowls. Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, using sun protection, quitting smoking, and getting injectables or non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy and radiofrequency therapy can all help improve the appearance of sagging jowls.

How Do You Prevent Jowls?

You can prevent jowls by maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, using sun protection, quitting smoking, and avoiding repetitive facial movements like chewing gum or sleeping on your side. Regular exercise, particularly facial exercises, can also help tone and tighten the muscles in your face, reducing the appearance of jowls.

Is Ultherapy Painful?

Most patients find Ultherapy to be a relatively painless procedure. However, some patients may experience slight discomfort during the treatment, particularly around bony areas like the jawline. Your provider can apply topical numbing cream or administer local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort.

How Long Does Radiofrequency Therapy Last?

The duration of the results from radiofrequency therapy can vary from person to person. Most patients see improvement immediately after treatment, with full results appearing within two to three months.

The results can last for up to two years, but may vary depending on factors like age, skin type, and lifestyle habits. To maintain the results, you may need to undergo touch-up treatments every 18-24 months.

What Are the Risks of a Facelift?

Like any surgical procedure, a facelift carries some risks and potential complications. These may include bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve damage, and poor wound healing.

Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions for preparing for your procedure and minimizing your risk of complications. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully and inform your surgeon of any medications you are taking or medical conditions you have.

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