The skin undergoes many physiological changes associated with normal aging. A lifetime of excessive sun exposure, systematic diseases, and poor nutrition can increase the range of skin problems and the rapidity with which they appear. In addition, certain drugs like antihistamines, antibiotics, and diuretics are photosensitizing and increase the damage that results from sun exposure. Skin problems are common among aging people. With increasing age, the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin thin and flatten, causing wrinkles, overlapping of skin, sags and hollowing.

Cheek hollowing is a natural process of skin aging. As we grow old, the sinking of the skin becomes more evident. It’s a natural wasting or atrophy of fat under the bottom layer of skin, the subcutaneous tissue. The subcutaneous tissue, or hypodermis, is the innermost layer of the skin. It is primarily adipose tissue which provides a cushion between the skin layers, muscles and bone. It promotes skin mobility, insulates the body and molds the body contours. Collagen, a protein present in that skin site, is a structure that brings the skin its natural bounciness. Elastin on the other hand gives the skin its elasticity. As skin ages, it looses both collagen and elastin. And this also results in loosing its natural bounce and elasticity and is also partly the reason for the natural wasting. Loss of the subcutaneous tissue substances of elastin, collagen and fat diminishes the cushioning of underlying tissues and decreases muscle tone. When these things happen, it creates a bilateral sunken appearance especially when the atrophy process affects both temple and cheek area. This hollowing process gives the face a gaunt, haggard like look.

Tips on how to get rid of cheek hollows:

1. Preventive skin care

Damage from excessive sun exposure, has detrimental effects on the normal aging skin. A lifetime of outdoor work like construction work, life guarding or sunbathing without prudent use of sunscreen can lead to not only wrinkling but also increased loss of elasticity eventually resulting in cheek hollows. Avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun. Application of sunscreen daily is essential to block of harmful sun rays.

2. Water hydration

Hydrate the skin by drinking a lot of fluids regularly. Two fifths of the fluid volume in our bodies goes to our skin so it is essential that we drink fluids regularly to hydrate it especially water.

3. Anti-aging skin care product system

Purchase quality products to care for your skin. Remember you only have one face. Find a product system enriched with natural antioxidants which slows down the natural aging process. A typical product system should have a cleanser, a toner and a moisturizer with SPF properties. Remember our facial skin is different from our bodily skin. It’s more sensitive so sunscreens for bodies shouldn’t be applied to the facial area. Then purchase additional night time supplemental creams to help restore and refresh the skin. Also look for an exfoliating product which makes your skin renew its skin. Regularly apply it every morning and in the evening.

4. Botox

Botox is an invasive procedure where you paralyze facial muscle using a solution via injections. This procedure however temporarily stops the natural cheek hollowing process. It usually lasts for 6 months so reapplication is needed. Consult with a doctor how you should go about with this procedure.

5. Fillers

Through the expertise of a doctor you can request to have injectable fillers to lift the hollowing from the inside or have it corrected with silicone implants. Consult with a doctor how you should go about with this procedure.

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