Tackling the issue of facial jowls: Non-surgical treatment options for the jowls

As we age, it is common for both women and men to develop visible jowls – the areas of sagging skin along the lower jawline. Many people become aware of this change when they notice the difference in their facial contours, sometimes prompting consideration of surgical options such as a facelift.

However, there are a number of non-surgical treatments that can help to improve the appearance of the lower face by addressing volume loss and contour changes in the jawline. While surgical intervention may be required in cases of significant skin laxity, it is often appropriate to consider less invasive options first.

At Queen of the Skin in Sydney and Canberra, we provide a range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments designed to target the jawline area and support an individualised treatment approach.

What causes jowls to form?

The primary cause of jowls is the natural ageing process, which gradually reduces the skin’s structural support. Over time, collagen, which is a protein that gives the skin its strength and firmness, declines, resulting in thinner and less resilient skin. Elastin, the protein that allows skin to return to its original shape after movement, becomes weaker with age. This leads to a gradual loss of skin elasticity and contributes to sagging.

Ageing also affects the underlying structures of the face which includes a reduction of fat in the mid and lower face as well as bone loss – these factors contribute to the skin becoming saggier.

Several other factors play a role in skin degradation and the early development or worsening of jowls include genetics, sudden or significant weight loss, sun exposure, poor nutrition, alcohol consumption, smoking and other external and lifestyle factors.

Treatment for Jowls

Jowls can be managed with a combination of non-surgical treatments, and it is important not to overlook the role of prevention and ongoing skin care in this process. Our treatment approach is tailored to the individual, often starting with product selection that can provide visible improvement to the lower face.

Volumising and contouring products are commonly used as a first step, as they can help to improve definition along the jawline and minimise the appearance of jowls. Other treatment options that may be considered include bio remodelling products, skin boosters, light-based therapies, and the use of medical-grade skin care to support overall skin health and assist in managing signs of ageing.

Volumising and Contouring Treatment

One treatment option for improving the appearance of the jowls and surrounding areas such as the jawline, involves the use of volumising and contouring products. These products are placed carefully in front and behind the jowls, to conceal the jowl area and define the lower jawline region. This is a non-surgical treatment and requires minimal downtime, that is often due to the bruising and swelling in the treatment area.

The volumising and contouring products used are made from complex sugar molecules that naturally occur in the body. These molecules attract and bind water, providing volume and support to the skin.

The treatment takes approximately one to two hours to perform. Depending on the product selected, results typically last between 18 to 24 months. In the lower jawline, it is common for the effects of treatment to remain visible for five to seven years, with a small touch-up often recommended at around the 24-month mark. As with any treatment, there are potential risks. Side effects may include bruising, bleeding, tenderness, numbness, swelling, skin redness and itchiness. Less common risks can include skin discolouration, uneven volume, nodules or infection. If you would like more information regarding potential risks or details about the treatment, this can be found on our Volumising and Contouring Treatments page.

Bio-Remodelling and Skin Booster Treatments

Bio-Remodelling and Skin Booster treatments can be used to support the skin in the jowls and lower face as part of an overall treatment plan. These treatments do not aim to add volume, but rather work to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production and improve hydration. Over time, this can help improve skin firmness, elasticity and texture, which can assist in managing early skin laxity around the jawline and jowls.

Skin Booster treatments involve placing small amounts of product within the skin at selected points in the jawline, around the mouth, and other areas of the mid to lower face. These treatments help to increase skin hydration, improve texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines around the mouth.

Bio-Remodelling treatments work by stimulating collagen and elastin production to improve the structure of the skin over time. This product is usually placed using a cannula into the deeper layers of the skin to support more effective collagen stimulation. Results from Skin Booster treatments are generally seen within a few weeks. Bio-Remodelling treatments tend to produce a more gradual improvement, with changes continuing to develop over several months. The duration of results will vary depending on skin condition, the type of treatment used, and individual health and lifestyle factors. These treatments are usually included as part of a broader treatment plan. In most cases, volumising and contouring treatments are performed first to address structure and definition, as they provide immediate results. Skin Boosters and Bio-Remodelling treatments may then be recommended at a later stage to refine the outcome and address superficial lines and texture concerns in the lower face.

Light-Based Therapy Treatments

Light-based treatments can be used to improve skin quality. These treatments work by delivering specific wavelengths of light into the skin to stimulate natural cellular processes. Over time, this can assist in improving skin texture, elasticity, and firmness – factors which contribute to the management of early skin laxity and jowl formation. Light-based treatments are commonly used alongside other non-surgical options as part of an overall treatment plan.

LED light therapy uses a combination of visible and near-infrared light to stimulate fibroblast cells and support collagen and elastin production. Regular treatments can assist with improving skin texture, promoting circulation, and helping to maintain skin firmness over time. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as cold laser, works in a similar way, using low-level laser energy to stimulate skin cells without causing heat or damage. This can help to support skin recovery and improve overall skin quality.

Laser treatments deliver specific wavelengths of light into the skin to target deeper structures. These wavelengths can assist in improving skin tone and texture, supporting collagen production, and reducing the appearance of redness and pigmentation. Light-based treatments can be incorporated as part of an overall plan to support skin quality in the lower face and jawline, helping to address early changes associated with skin ageing.

Medical-Grade Skin Care

A consistent skin care routine plays an important role in supporting overall skin quality and helping to manage the visible signs of ageing. At Queen of The Skin, we use medical-grade skin care products that are formulated with active ingredients designed to support the skin’s natural repair processes and maintain skin health. These products help to support fibroblast activity, which encourages collagen production and assists in maintaining skin structure over time.

We understand that everyone’s concerns are different and that treatment outcomes need to be tailored to suit the individual. Our team can guide you through the options available and help plan an approach that is suitable for you.

If you would like to discuss your concerns and explore which treatment options may be suitable for managing the appearance of jowls, please complete our contact form for Sydney or Canberra and one of our cosmetic nurses will be in touch with you shortly. Alternatively, you can phone our clinic directly if you would like more information.