Aging in the Male Face: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors

The 2016 review article examined the aging process in the male face, identifying both intrinsic factors, such as hormonal changes and skin characteristics, and extrinsic factors, like smoking and sun exposure, that contribute to aging. Men's skin is thicker and has more active hair growth but is more susceptible to UV damage and has a reduced antioxidant capacity. The male aging pattern is distinct, with more severe wrinkles, especially around the eyes, and a higher propensity for hair loss. A study of 173 Japanese men and women indicated that men have more severe facial wrinkles, but this difference decreases with age. Men's facial aging is also characterized by a unique wrinkle pattern and a steady volume loss, in contrast to the sharp reduction in women during menopause. By age 50, 50% of white men show signs of hair loss, impacting their confidence and perceived youth. Understanding these gender-specific aging processes is crucial for tailoring cosmetic treatments for men.