Skin Conditions | Loss of Volume

One of the side effects of ageing is that the levels of hyaluronic acid and collagen in our skin deplete. As a result, our skin becomes less smooth and plump as we lose volume in our faces. The underlying structures that support our skin also degrade, and gravity takes its toll, causing the fat in our faces to ‘slide’ and breakdown. This makes our cheeks appear less full and elevated and causes lines such as nasolabial folds, nose to mouth lines and jowls to appear.

What causes loss of volume?

Volume loss can be caused by a number of factors, ranging from sun damage to dramatic weight loss, stress, illness, ageing and drug use. You may also hear the term ‘volume loss’ being referred to as Lipatrophy or ‘Facial Wasting’. This generally refers to localised volume loss related to illness such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis and their accompanying drug treatments, which often leave sufferers gaunt in appearance. People with HIV also commonly suffer from extreme loss of volume in the face, as a result of the illness. This is known as HIV Associated Lipodystrophy.

Where can you get volume loss?

The term volume loss is generally used when referring to loss of fat in the face.

Who can get volume loss?

Anyone can get volume loss, but as it is mainly associated with ageing, it tends to be more apparent in people from their 30s upwards.

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