Concerns · Skin of colour
Volume Loss
Restoring support, keeping your natural face
Understanding your skin
Volume loss in skin of colour
Facial volume loss is a common concern that develops as part of the natural ageing process. It often appears as heaviness along the jawline, loss of definition in the lower face, and skin that seems to "drop" over time. While completely normal, these changes can affect facial harmony and confidence.
At Dr Mélanin, we provide dermatologist-led, non-surgical treatments for jowls and sagging skin in Thurrock, with specialist expertise in treating melanin-rich skin safely and effectively.
The science
How sagging develops
Why our approach is different
Melanin-rich skin often shows sagging later, and differently.
Melanin-rich skin often retains collagen slightly longer than lighter skin tones, meaning visible sagging may appear later. However, when it does develop, it can coexist with pigmentation changes or textural irregularities.
Treatment must therefore address both structural support and skin quality, while avoiding overly aggressive procedures that could trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. At Dr Mélanin, we take a conservative, structured approach tailored specifically to darker skin tones.
- Structural support
- Skin quality
- Pigment-safe care
Beneath the surface
What causes jowls and sagging?
Sagging happens across several layers of the face at once, and some of the influences behind it are within your control.
Within the face
- Bone resorption, the gradual loss of underlying support
- Fat pad descent, as deeper fat compartments shift downward
- Ligament laxity, which loosens the face's natural anchors
- Collagen and elastin decline, leaving skin thinner and less elastic
Lifestyle & environment
- Sun exposure, which accelerates collagen breakdown
- Smoking, which weakens skin integrity
- Chronic stress
- Weight changes
- Genetics
The combination of these changes leads to heaviness in the lower face and the formation of jowls.
Your treatment
Restoring support, naturally
There is no single "quick fix" for sagging. Successful treatment focuses on restoring support and stimulating collagen production, planned around your facial anatomy.
Restoring structure
Dermal filler
Strategic placement of dermal filler restores lost support and creates a lifting effect. By enhancing mid-face projection and strengthening the jawline contour, the lower face appears more defined.
Rather than filling the jowl directly, treatment often focuses on these structural areas to rebalance the face.
For firmness and skin quality
Collagen stimulation
Microneedling and other collagen-stimulating treatments help improve skin firmness over time. They deliver controlled injury into the dermis, encouraging new collagen production and gradual tightening. They are particularly effective for early to moderate sagging, and can be combined with injectable treatments for enhanced results.
In selected cases
Anti-wrinkle treatment
Targeted anti-wrinkle treatment in the lower face and neck can reduce the downward pull of certain muscles. Often referred to as a "Nefertiti lift", this approach subtly enhances jawline definition by relaxing the depressor muscles. Not every client is suitable, so careful assessment is required.
Results are subtle and natural when treatment is performed with anatomical precision, restoring definition while keeping you looking like yourself.
Signature Programmes
Programmes for volume loss
Where volume loss is part of a wider picture, one of our structured programmes brings your treatments together into a single, considered plan, matched to your stage of life.
Your questions
Frequently asked questions
01How long do results last?
Dermal fillers typically last between 9 and 18 months, depending on product type and individual metabolism. Collagen-stimulating treatments produce gradual improvements over three to six months, with maintenance sessions recommended annually. Lifestyle factors, including sun protection and skincare, significantly influence longevity.
02Can jowls be completely removed without surgery?
Non-surgical treatments can significantly improve mild to moderate jowls, but severe sagging may require surgical intervention for dramatic correction.
03Will filler make my face look heavy?
When placed correctly and conservatively, filler restores balance and definition without heaviness. Overfilling is avoided through careful planning.
04Am I too young for treatment?
One of the risks associated with dermal fillers is migration, which often occurs as a result of long-term use. As a result, we generally avoid treating younger clients with filler.
If you are noticing the first signs of lost firmness in your 30s or 40s, Aurore supports your skin early and gently, without filler.
05How can I protect my results?
Sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown, so wearing a hydrating SPF 50 daily, year-round, is essential (even if you are indoors in a room with windows). Without adequate sun protection, treatment will be of less benefit in the long term and your results may not last as long.
Stopping smoking, managing stress and following a good skincare routine will also help protect your skin's support.
Can't find your answer? Please reach out to us.
Disclaimer
Your results, side effects, treatment plans, downtime and recovery may vary, as all our clients are unique. The information provided on this page is based on the average client experience. If you would like more detail about how your experience may differ, please book an in-person consultation.
Begin your journey