A recent theory has emerged, claiming that technology enthusiasts are more likely to develop saggy jowls or face wrinkles as a result of their habits.
The head is often bent downwards slightly during use of a laptop or smartphone, and as these devices become more popular, people spend full hours, if not days, staring into their screens. The occurrence is now referred to as ‘smartphone face’, and many experts believe it is the leading cause for the increase in skin-tightening and chin-enhancing treatments today. The trend also has a negative effect on posture, which also leads to wrinkles and double chins.
According to Dr. Mervyn Patterson of the Woodford Medical Group, “If you sit for hours with your head bent slightly forward, staring at your iPhone of laptop screen, you may shorten the neck muscles and increase the gravitational pull on the jowl area, leading to a drooping jawline.”
Dr. Malcom Roth of ASPS explained that self-consciousness regarding these areas is on the rise. “The chin and jawline are among the first areas to show signs of aging. As more people see themselves on video chat technology they may notice their jawline is not as sharp as they want.”
There are serious health problems that can arise from the leaning neck and bad posture, as well. Back pains, spinal conditions, even breathing problems can appear as a result. Chronic smartphone use becoming increasingly common, but in order to compensate it is important to do routine stretches and strengthening exercises, as well as to take a break from all screens for at least a few hours each day.
