“Gravity and wrinkles are fine with me. They're a small price to pay for the new wisdom inside my head and heart.”
Drew Barrymore
When I see the hashtag #BlackDontCrack I don't know whether to cringe or to laugh out loud. The discomfort is more about the unfair advantage I believe black and other women of colour have when it comes to the reduced signs of ageing that our faces bear.
Black Don't Crack refers to the fact that darker-skinned women are less lightly to develop wrinkles as we age. When we do have wrinkles they tend to be less obvious due to the melanin in our skin.
At the age of 87, my mother has very few wrinkles on her face, although she does have them over her neck, hands, and body.
This fact was brought to my attention about 5 years ago when my very fair, very blonde friend Jane said, I think the white girls get all the attention because we meet society's beauty standards but this is flipped on its head because there's no doubt that darker women remain more beautiful as they age. We went on to discuss how in many ways, that ageing can be a great equaliser!
Jane's face is beautifully crisscrossed with fine lines around her eyes, forehead, and mouth, all a testament to the richness of life lived. I've always loved that Jane announced proudly that she would not use fillers or Botox. However, I am passionate about being non-judgemental about how women age which caused me to create the following guiding principle:
Silver Sirens supports women to engage in a healthy lifestyle that brings out the best in her mind, body, and soul. We have no opinion on a woman's decision to engage in cosmetic or medical procedures.
The Ageing Face
As we age, various changes occur in our faces due to natural processes such as skin ageing, muscle weakening, and changes in fat distribution.
While ageing is a normal part of life, for many women it can lead to visible transformations in our facial appearance.
Here are some common changes that occur in our faces as we age:
1. Wrinkles and Fine Lines:
One of the most noticeable signs of ageing is the development of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. These lines are caused by a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential proteins that maintain the skin's elasticity and firmness.
2. Loss of Skin Elasticity:
As women age, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to sagging and drooping in certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks, jawline, and neck. This loss of elasticity is due to a decrease in collagen production and the effects of gravity over time.
3. Thinning of the Skin:
With age, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making it prone to damage and bruising. Thinning skin is a result of a decrease in the skin's natural oil production, which can lead to dryness and increased sensitivity.
4. Changes in Facial Contours:
The distribution of fat in the face changes as women age, resulting in alterations in facial contours. Fat loss in the cheeks and temples can make the face appear hollow, while fat accumulation in the jowls and under the chin can create a sagging or puffy appearance.
5. Dark Spots and Uneven Skin Tone:
Hyperpigmentation, such as dark spots and age spots, can develop on the face as a result of sun exposure and hormonal changes. Uneven skin tone and discoloration can make the skin appear dull and aged.
6. Thinning Eyebrows and Eyelashes:
As women age, the eyebrows and eyelashes may become thinner and sparser due to hormonal changes and reduced hair growth. Thinning eyebrows and eyelashes can affect the overall appearance of the eyes and face.
7. Changes in Facial Expression:
Muscle weakening and changes in facial fat distribution can impact facial expressions over time. Women may notice changes in their smiles, frown lines, and overall facial movements as they age.
8. Bone Loss:
Bone loss in the face can contribute to changes in facial structure, such as a loss of definition in the jawline and cheekbones. Reduced bone density can also affect the support and shape of the face.
While these changes are a natural part of the ageing process, there are ways to maintain healthy skin and slow down the signs of ageing if that is your wish.
Practicing good skincare habits, protecting the skin from sun damage, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding drinking and smoking can help us preserve our skin's vitality as we age.
Additionally, treatments such as skincare products, facial exercises including face yoga, cosmetic procedures, and professional skincare services can help address specific concerns and enhance the overall appearance of the face.