“Jogger’s face”: Continue running without ageing prematurely

Running is one of the best ways to make your body stronger, lose fat, and boost the mind. Though, can it also predispose the face to develop a gaunt, prematurely-aged appearance, referred to as “jogger’s face”? Leading consultant plastic and aesthetic surgeon Mr Ayad Harb clarifies in this article. 

Does exercise really cause “jogger’s face”? 

The short answer is yes and no. Running itself does not directly cause the face to hollow or increase laxity. However, several factors that an avid runner is exposed to may contribute to the average appearance and characteristics seen with jogger’s face.

The natural fat in our bodies plays an important role in shape, contours, and lift of the face. When there is high level exercise, or weight loss via other means, it will eventually result in the loss of this fat and ultimately the youthful plumpness of the face. Hollowing in the mid-face, cheeks, and temples may also be produced by this and lead to facial characteristics normally associated with old age.  

Running outdoors might expose the skin to UV radiation, as well, even on a cloudy day. UV radiation damages the skin cells, collaged, and elastic fibres which lead to thinning and premature ageing, in addition to predisposing to skin cancers.  

Repetitive and high-impact bouncing of the facial tissues are also thought to possibly, over time, damage and stretch the supporting ligaments of the face, predisposing to heaviness and laxity in the skin and fat of the face.

Finally, there may be direct damage caused to the tissues by the low oxygen state during intensive exercise, resulting in cellular stress and premature damage. 

So, what can we do about it? 

Wearing a high-factor SPF at all times when jogging and exercising outdoors is the best way to protect the skin from UV damage, even on cloudy days. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water not just after exercise, but before, as well. Be sure skin remains well hydrated by using a suitable moisturiser with SPF. 

If possible, try avoiding extreme exercise routines which use up the remaining morsels of body fat, especially on the face. The important of keeping an active and healthy lifestyle cannot be stressed enough, but remember that your facial fat may start suffering at the extreme end of the spectrum, and this may be reflected on the face and appearance. 

Skin treatments that reverse signs of damage include micro-needling, such as Morpheus8, and radio frequency. These options help restore collagen and the elastic stock in the skin, as well as help to maintain the smoothness and strength of the skin. 

Skin boosters and internal moisturisers—such as Profhilo, Redensity 1, and PRP—will infuse the skin with much-needed doses of hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and growth factors to keep it soft, smooth, and well-hydrated. 

Restoring the volume which was lost in the face is also an important step in minimising the appearance of premature ageing and hollowness. Natural fat compartments can be replenished back to their natural levels with natural hyaluronic acid or fat. In turn, the youthful volume and contours of the face will reverse some of the jogger’s face characteristics.

Finally, where damage is already done in more advanced cases, more powerful treatments—such as EndoLift, Facetite, or even surgical correction—may be required to reverse visible signs of damage and ageing. 

If you think you may be showing signs of “jogger’s face” or would like more information, you can book a consultation on Mr Harb’s Top Doctors profile.