New Study: Lifestyle Factors Crucial in Facial Aging

A person’s lifestyle and environment could play a more significant role than their genes, at least when it comes to the visible onset and progression of facial aging.

In a recent study published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, doctors analyzed identical twins with contrasting lifestyle factors by visibly checking for signs of facial aging.

Author of the study, Bahman Guyuron MD says, “we looked at identical twins because they are genetically programmed to age exactly the same, and in doing so we essentially discovered that, when it comes to your face, it is possible to cheat your biological clock.”

The twins were photographed, surveyed, and then visually analyzed by an independent panel. The results revealed a higher perceived age difference in subjects that had been divorced, with approximately 2 years worth more visible aging signs than non-divorced subjects. Subjects who had used antidepressants also exhibited more noticeable signs of aging.

One of the most interesting findings was the conclusion that subjects over 40 who were heavier than their identical counterpart actually appeared younger. Dr. Guyuron speculates that this finding provides some scientific basis to support facial rejuvenation through volume restoration – the correction of facial lipoatrophy.