Clues for Facial Perceived Age: Exercise, Sun Protection, Photoaging, and Anthropometric Properties: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The effect of environmental and genetic factors on the aging process is widely acknowledged. Yet, the extent to which each factor decisively contributes to the perception of looking younger or older remains a subject of debate. This study seeks to identify the factors linked to the perceived age among Turkish women. PATIENTS AND METHODS Ten assessors scored the perceived ages of 250 female patients based on facial photographs. The study aimed to assess the impact of environmental factors and anthropometric measurements on the perception of aging. A comprehensive analysis involved conducting 9 perioral and 6 periorbital anthropometric measurements on all study participants. RESULTS Exercise (p = .001), mild photodamage (stage 1–2) (p = .001), consistent sunscreen use (p = .001), the length of the palpebral fissure (p = .043), and the height of the upper vermilion (p = .019) demonstrated significant associations with a more youthful appearance. CONCLUSION Environmental factors, including exercise, photoprotection, sunscreen use, and anthropometric measurements such as palpebral fissure length and upper vermilion height, play a significant role in contributing to a more youthful appearance.