Lower body fat percentage can contribute to a younger appearance. This is because excess weight, particularly in the face, can lead to sagging skin and accentuate wrinkles, making a person appear older. When you lose weight, your face becomes more defined, and your cheekbones and jawline become more prominent. This can give your face a more youthful and attractive appearance. [1]
Several sources suggest a correlation between slimmer builds and a younger appearance. Reduced skin sagging and fewer visible signs of aging are frequently cited reasons. [2, 3, 5] The absence of excess fat allows for facial features to be more defined, contributing to a more youthful look. This is particularly noticeable in teenagers, where skinny individuals often appear younger than their peers. [4] However, it's crucial to note that this observation is not universally applicable. Some studies suggest that after the age of 40, being thinner can actually have the opposite effect, and a fuller face may appear more youthful. [7]
- Defined Facial Features: Weight loss, particularly in the face, leads to a more sculpted appearance, highlighting cheekbones and jawline, which are commonly associated with youthfulness.
- Reduced Sagging Skin: Less excess weight means less stress on the skin, potentially reducing sagging and improving overall skin tone.
- Improved Skin Elasticity: While not directly caused by thinness alone, weight management can contribute to better overall health, potentially improving skin elasticity. [3]
It's important to remember that perceptions of youthfulness are subjective and depend on many factors beyond body weight, including genetics, lifestyle, and skincare. While lower body fat can contribute to a more youthful look in many cases, it is not the sole determinant. [6, 8, 9] The relationship between weight and perceived age appears more complex than initially assumed. [7]
