What causes the changes and which non-surgical treatments may help
By Stacey Gaff, Founder & Esthetician Lake Life Day Spa
“My face looks heavier.” “My jawline used to be more defined.” These are things I often hear from clients. They can see a change, but they are not sure whether it is their skin, their cheeks or the area under their chin.
Jowls, folds around the mouth and a double chin can sit close together, but they are different concerns. Understanding what is contributing helps us choose a treatment that makes sense for your face.
What’s Actually Causing Your Face to Age?
Although we see wrinkles, flatter cheeks and a softer jawline on the outside, some of what causes these changes happens beneath the skin.
As we age:
- Collagen declines, leaving skin with less strength and firmness.
- Elastin changes, so skin loses some of its stretch and bounce back.
- Facial muscles change, affecting muscle tone, movement and the contours of the face.
- Fat pads change in fullness and position, which can leave some areas looking hollow and others looking heavier.
- Bone and supporting tissues change, altering the framework beneath the skin.
Hormonal changes around menopause can make changes in skin firmness, thickness and hydration more noticeable. This helps explain why treating the skin alone may not address everything you see in the mirror.
Healthy Skin Starts With Daily Care
Before we talk about devices, I always talk about skincare. Every treatment plan at Lake Life includes recommendations for what you use at home.
A well-chosen routine helps address different needs:
- Appropriate exfoliation removes built-up surface cells, helping skin look smoother and less dull.
- Retinol or another suitable retinoid can support collagen production and improve fine lines, texture and uneven pigmentation.
- Vitamin C and other antioxidants can help address environmental stress and uneven tone.
- Hydration and barrier support help skin retain moisture and stay comfortable.
- Daily sunscreen helps protect against further sun damage.
The right combination depends on your skin. We also adjust your routine around treatments so that active products support your care without causing unnecessary irritation. Skincare supports skin health, but it cannot reposition significant jowling.
When I consider EMFACE
EMFACE combines HIFES facial electrical stimulation with synchronized radiofrequency. It works selected facial muscles while also stimulating a skin-remodelling response. I often consider it when changes in cheek support and facial definition are part of the concern.
We may discuss it for:
- Cheeks that look less supported.
- Early changes along the jawline.
- Concerns involving facial support as well as skin firmness.
EMFACE is often part of the foundation of my treatment plans, but it is not automatically the first step. If skin laxity is the more prominent issue, I may begin with skin-focused treatment and reassess.
When skin firmness is the priority
Needle-free EXION Face combines radiofrequency and targeted ultrasound. We may consider it when someone is mainly concerned about reduced firmness, even if their skin texture is relatively good.
EXION RF microneedling is a different treatment. It uses needles and radiofrequency to stimulate tissue remodelling and may be considered when concerns include:
- Uneven texture.
- Fine lines.
- Reduced skin firmness.
Sometimes we use one approach; sometimes we work in stages. Your priorities, budget, suitability and recovery plans help guide that choice. RF microneedling requires aftercare, sun protection and a discussion of risks before treatment.
Where Sculpt and Lift fits
Our Sculpt & Lift treatment brings hands-on care into the plan, with lymphatic drainage techniques and attention to facial, jaw and neck tension. We work beyond the jawline, including the upper chest and scalp, with intraoral work around the mouth where appropriate.
After treatment, clients often tell me they feel:
- Less puffy and lighter through the face.
- Less tension around the jaw.
- Deeply relaxed.
I may also notice clearer definition in their features and a more open-looking eye area. When puffiness and tension are contributing, Sculpt & Lift can be useful on its own or alongside a device plan. These changes are different from permanently lifting loose tissue or removing excess skin.
Choosing your treatment plan
A combination may make sense when more than one concern is present. EMFACE may address facial support, EXION Face or RF microneedling may address skin concerns, and Sculpt & Lift may help with puffiness and tension. That does not mean everyone needs every treatment.
Our focus is skin health and longevity, with realistic improvement that suits your face. These treatments do not replace a facelift. If substantial lifting or excess-skin removal is your goal, a surgical opinion may be more useful. We respect that choice.
If you are noticing jowls or a softer jawline, book a consultation at Lake Life Day Spa in Salmon Arm. We can help you understand your options before you choose a treatment.
