Yes, chubby faces often appear younger. Facial fat contributes significantly to a youthful appearance.
The Role of Facial Fat in Youthful Appearance
Facial fat, particularly in the cheeks, adds volume and fullness to the face. This increased volume smooths out wrinkles and lines, creating a more youthful look. As we age, we naturally lose facial fat and bone structure, leading to a less voluminous face and a more aged appearance. This loss of volume accentuates wrinkles and hollows the face, making it appear thinner and older. [15-Dec-2023 reference] Fat in the face gives the appearance of more facial volume causing the face to look more awake, less tired, full, and more youthful.
Several sources support this observation:
- Increased Volume and Smoothness: Facial fat fills out the face, creating a smoother surface that minimizes the appearance of wrinkles. [Dec 7, 2017 Quora reference] Fat tends to be deposited under our skin so as it builds up there, it can give the appearance of stretched smooth skin which we associate…
- Preservation of Youthful Features: Maintaining a healthy amount of facial fat helps preserve the roundness and fullness associated with youth. [Oct 3, 2021 Reddit reference] Higher body fat - chubby body, face looks younger. [Jan 16, 2018 Independent reference] "You don't want to look gaunt as an older woman. Love your chubby cheeks ladies!"
- Contrast to Age-Related Changes: As we age, the loss of facial fat leads to a gaunt or sunken appearance, highlighting the effects of aging. [Oct 3, 2022 Reddit reference] Facial fat definitely contributes to looking younger as you age (important to keep a steady weight as you get older especially over 35 or so)
- Round Faces Age Well: Round faces, which naturally store more fat in the cheek area, tend to age better than other face shapes due to this inherent fullness. [SkinViva reference] Round faces tend to age very well compared to other face shapes due to the fact they store a lot of fat in the cheek area. This can keep you looking younger for…
While excessive weight gain can negatively impact overall health and appearance, a moderate amount of facial fat can contribute to a more youthful look. The key is maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. [May 10, 2021 Quora reference] It won't make you look older but if you are having chubby face due to excessive weight gain it will sunk the features (like cheek bones , doublethink) of your… [Jul 6, 2024 Reddit reference] So your chubby cheeks will slightly chisel out due to age. But when it does, you will look back and miss your old youthful face.