Does the race cause the falling face? See what the dermatologist says

Does the race cause the falling face? See what the dermatologist says


The concern is so common that it has even earned a name: the face of the runner

The expert clarifies if the impact of the breed can affect the firmness of the skin of the face

In recent years, the race has won its space among the Brazilians. In parks, roads or treadmills, the number of supporters of the practice grows every day. World Athletics data (2023) show that the number of amateur corridors has increased by over 60% in the last decade, especially women and people over 40 years.




But together with the benefits of the breed – such as the improvement of cardiovascular conditioning, weight control and stress reduction – doubts also arise. One of these attracted attention to dermatological offices: after all, run “makes your face fall”?

The concern is so common that it has even gained a name: the face of the runner – popular expression that describes a thinner face, marked with grooves and signs of ceding, often observed in long distance corridors.

Myth or truth about the falling breed?

According to the dermatologist Gustavo Novaes, a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, the direct association between running and facial failure is not yet scientifically tried, but there are factors related to sports that can affect the appearance of the skin. “It is not the breed itself that causes calcium conditions, but associated, such as facial fat loss, exposure to the chronic sun and even the oxidative stress caused by a very intense training”, explains the doctor.

Studies indicate that resistance athletes, such as the runners of the marathon, have fewer volume of subcutaneous facial fat, which can make the face bones more important and highlight wrinkles or grooves. In addition, those who run outdoors are often exposed to ultraviolet radiation, the main extrinsic factor of skin aging. “More than 80% of the visible signs of face aging is connected to the exposure to the sun accumulated over the years,” says Gustavo. “That’s why sun protection is as important as tennis during the race.”

And the impact of the movement?

The idea that the repetitive movement of the breed could “shake” the fabric of the face and cause the drop not to support either. “This is a belief that has no scientific bases. The anatomy of the face and muscles are able to dampen these impacts,” explains the expert.

What really contributes to the appearance of relaxation?

According to Dr. Gustavo Novaes, the main factors that can influence the appearance of the face of the corridor are:

  • Low percentage of facial fat;
  • FotoAeageging (exposure to the accumulated sun);
  • Oxidative stress (intent training without adequate recovery);
  • Genetic factors and age.

How to prevent and cure?

The good news is that, with the right care, it is possible to reconcile the passion for breed with a firm and healthy skin. “The most important thing is prevention. This includes the use of FPS sun protection every day, the maintenance of a healthy diet and the guarantee of a good recovery time between training,” says the dermatologist.

In cases where there are already signs of relaxation, dermatology has a series of effective treatments. Among them:

  • Collagen biostimulators (such as polylactic acid and calcium hydroxyapatitis);
  • Microfuta ultrasound and radio frequency;
  • Support the threads;
  • Fractional laser and pulsed light.

“These procedures help to stimulate collagen and reposition the fabrics, restoring firmness on the skin gradually and safely,” explains Gustavo.

Race X Aesthetics: Do you have to choose?

The answer is no. For the expert, health and aesthetics must walk together – or, in this case, run side by side. “The breed has numerous benefits for the body and mind. What we need is to adapt the skin care to the routine of the corridor. With adequate guide, it is perfectly possible to age with health and the beautiful appearance”, concludes.

Source: Terra

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