Introduction: The Reality Show Curse

Reality competition shows often produce unexpected outcomes. Producers may have their favorites, but audiences sometimes rebel against these choices. This recently happened to a renowned 1990s actress.

Chen Derong, once hailed as a national beauty icon in classic TV dramas, participated in a popular female celebrity singing and dancing competition. Fans in their 50s expected her to shine. However, she struggled with dance moves, clashed with teammates, and was overshadowed by less famous but more diligent participants. Her poor attitude shocked viewers and tarnished her reputation.

This scenario raises intriguing questions about beauty and aging. Why do some celebrities maintain their charm for decades while others lose their luster? The answer lies in understanding two facial structures – “bone-dominant” and “skin-dominant” faces.

1. Classic Beauty Icons of Chinese Television

During the 1980s to 2000s, romantic dramas penned by writer Chiung Yao dominated Chinese television. Her shows launched the careers of many actresses, dubbed the “Chiung Yao Girls.” These actresses shared similar beauty traits:

• Soft features with gentle curves rather than sharp angles
• Large, expressive eyes conveying deep emotions
• Youthful, rounded faces with abundant collagen (protein maintaining skin plumpness)

Stars like Brigitte Lin, Liu Xuehua, Chen Hong, Jiang Qinqin, Ruby Lin, Qin Lan, and Wang Yan fit this description. They represented a delicate, feminine ideal that captivated audiences of the time.

However, this “skin-dominant” beauty had a major weakness – it wasn’t always age-resistant. As we’ll see, the features that enchanted audiences in their youth worked against these actresses as they aged.

2. Skin-Dominant vs. Bone-Dominant Faces: Aging Differences

Facial beauty experts categorize attractive faces into two types:

Skin-Dominant Faces:

• More soft tissue (fat and muscle) than prominent bone structure
• Smooth, flowing facial contours without sharp angles
• Flatter nose bridges, less prominent cheekbones
• Typically appear younger than peers early in life
• As they age, skin sags more easily, wrinkles deepen

Bone-Dominant Faces:

• Strong, visible bone structure under the skin
• High cheekbones, defined jawlines, prominent brow ridges
• May look slightly mature in youth but bone structure remains unchanged with age
• Bones provide natural “scaffolding” preventing sagging
• Often considered more photogenic from multiple angles

Chen Derong exemplifies the skin-dominant face type. In her youth, her plump cheeks and soft features created an innocent, romantic aura perfect for her roles. However, after age 25, collagen production naturally slows, and her face began losing its youthful fullness. By her 40s, without strong bone structure for support, her skin showed noticeable sagging.

In contrast, actress Cecilia Cheung demonstrates bone-dominant beauty. Her round skull shape, high nose bridge, and sharp jawline maintain her facial structure for decades. Even as her skin ages, the underlying bone structure keeps everything in place.

3. Anti-Aging Strategies for Skin-Dominant Faces

While bone structure is genetic, skin-dominant individuals can take measures to combat aging:

A. Skincare Matters

Consistent use of anti-aging products significantly delays visible aging. Key ingredients to look for include:

• Collagen boosters like Vitamin C and retinol
• Hydrating complexes like hyaluronic acid
• Peptides stimulating skin repair

B. Exercise for Beauty

Surprisingly, back exercises help prevent facial sagging. The body’s connective tissue links back muscles to facial muscles. Strengthening this network creates a natural “lifting” effect, countering gravity.

C. Smart Cosmetic Enhancements

Some celebrities overfill wrinkles, creating unnatural appearances. Better approaches include:

• Subtle improvements to the facial “T-zone” (forehead, nose, chin)
• Maintaining natural bone structure rather than extreme rejuvenation
• Gradual changes rather than dramatic transformations

Singer Rainie Yang demonstrates proper techniques. As she ages, she subtly enhances her nose bridge and chin, maintaining facial harmony without appearing artificial.

4. Maximizing Beauty at Any Age

Skin-dominant faces have unique advantages that can be emphasized:

Flattering Hairstyles

• Soft waves or dynamic straight hairstyles
• Natural colors like milk tea shades
• Avoid extreme styles that exaggerate delicate features

Makeup Techniques

• Light, powdery foundation instead of heavy coverage
• Soft brow shapes following natural growth
• Eye makeup that vertically opens the eyes
• Blush mimicking natural skin tones

Fashion Choices

• Clothing drawing attention upward to the face
• Soft fabrics and flowing lines complementing facial curves
• Avoiding harsh, angular styles conflicting with delicate features

Conclusion: Beyond Physical Beauty

Chen Derong’s story teaches us that lasting charm requires more than just good looks. While bone structure influences our aging, attitude matters equally. Modern audiences respect hard work and humility over past glories.

True beauty is a combination of:

• Maintaining your appearance through proper skincare and styling
• Maintaining a positive attitude and willingness to grow
• Enhancing your strengths rather than fighting natural features
• Developing inner qualities that make you radiant at any age

Whether you have a skin-dominant or bone-dominant face, understanding your features enables graceful aging. But remember – no facial structure can compensate for a poor attitude. At any age, the most attractive quality is being someone others enjoy being around.