Influence of gravity upon some facial signs

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Biophysics
• Facial Aesthetics

Background:

• Facial appearance significantly influences perceived age.
• Objective measurement of facial changes in response to gravity is crucial for evaluating skincare efficacy.
• Understanding facial dynamics in motion is key to assessing interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify facial modifications due to changes in position relative to gravity.
• To assess the impact of gravitational changes on perceived age and facial aging signs.
• To evaluate the role of facial dynamics in daily activities.

Main Methods:

• Standardized photographs of 30 Caucasian females (ages 24-73) were taken in upright and supine positions.
• Images were reframed to avoid bias, and trained experts evaluated facial signs using standardized scales.
• Facial width, height, and specific aging features were assessed.

Main Results:

• The supine position increased facial width, creating a fuller appearance.
• Facial aging features, like wrinkles, changed in severity depending on location, with more pronounced effects in the lower face.
• Perceived age decreased by an average of 3.8 years in the supine position, especially in older subjects.

Conclusions:

• A 90° rotation of facial skin relative to gravity causes rapid rearrangements.
• Changes in tensional forces, interstitial water, and facial Langer lines likely contribute to these alterations.
• Gravity's influence on facial shape and perceived age is significant and rapid.