Doctors explain why Gen-Z women like Sabrina Carpenter appear to age rapidly while men seem to look younger than ever

Sabrina Carpenter, Kylie Jenner, and Bella Thorne may be in their 20s, but many are surprised to see how mature they look compared to previous generations of stars at the same age. Experts suggest that the overuse of Botox and dermal fillers is one of the major culprits for this premature aging. These cosmetic procedures, which are designed to enhance youthfulness, are reportedly being used by some women as young as their teenage years. Dr. Auriel Willette, a Rutgers University professor specializing in aging, explains that Botox and fillers used too early in life can stretch the skin and make it more prone to looking puffy, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “pillow face.” While these procedures are intended to restore volume and smooth wrinkles, the damage they cause over time can lead to an accelerated aging process when the filler wears off.

Dr. Mary Ghere, a plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, explains that overuse of injectable fillers damages the skin’s ability to produce collagen and elastin, essential proteins that keep the skin youthful and resilient. As the skin is constantly stretched by the filler, it loses its elasticity, causing it to sag more quickly after the treatment wears off. Although fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are popular for plumping areas such as the lips, cheeks, and under-eye areas, experts warn that their effects may not be as beneficial in the long run. Meanwhile, Botox, which works by paralyzing facial muscles, can weaken the muscle structure over time, leading to a hollowed, prematurely aged appearance in some cases. Both procedures are contributing to an alarming trend where younger women appear older than their years.

The trend of accelerated aging in women is further complicated by the rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. Dr. Jennifer Levine, a renowned plastic surgeon, suggests that the use of these medications, while effective for weight loss, can result in a gaunter, more aged appearance. Losing weight too quickly tends to cause the face to lose volume, which is often associated with an older look. The effects of such drastic weight loss can be exacerbated by the overuse of fillers and Botox, resulting in a combination that makes women look older faster than ever before. Even celebrities, who are often under intense pressure to maintain slim figures, are feeling the repercussions. Research by personal trainer Jillian Michaels revealed that some women on Ozempic are “aging in fast-forward,” with their skin losing elasticity and healing slower than before.

Interestingly, while women seem to be aging faster, male celebrities are showing fewer signs of aging. From Tom Holland's youthful glow to Cillian Murphy's seemingly ageless appearance, it’s clear that men are defying the typical aging process. Experts attribute this to a combination of factors, including increased estrogen in the environment, which Dr. Willette suggests could be causing men to develop softer, more youthful features. In addition, male stars are taking proactive measures to maintain their youthful looks, such as embracing healthier diets, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep—factors that all contribute to collagen production and skin repair. Moreover, non-invasive treatments like Botox and dermal fillers are also becoming more common among men, but they tend to use them more sparingly, opting for subtle enhancements rather than dramatic changes. This more conservative approach to aesthetics has helped men achieve a more natural, youthful look compared to their female counterparts.