Jowls

The term “jowl” is often used to describe any sagging skin that appears around the chin or jawline. Usually, jowls begin to form when the body starts to produce less collagen and elastin, two of the proteins that provide support and shape to the skin. The ageing process causes the number of these proteins to naturally reduce, and as a result, the skin surrounding the mouth can lose its elasticity and tightness. Once this happens, gravity starts to take effect, causing the skin to sag and protrude downwards.

Jowls do not occur in everyone – often, they are less noticeable in those who have more fat or collagen in their cheeks and chin. Some people may never develop jowls at all, and this could be due to lifestyle, environment, genetics or a combination of all three.