Getting older means changes in our bodies, especially in how our faces and skin look.
It might take some getting used to, accepting things like wrinkles and age spots. But feeling good about our bodies as we age is more about how we see ourselves than trying out home remedies or fancy treatments.
We can’t stop time completely, but there are things we can do to help keep our skin tight. This article will talk about why skin sags and different ways to deal with loose skin.
Table of Contents
Why Skin Sags?
Collagen, a major protein in your body, plays a key role in keeping your skin firm and holding everything together. It’s like the glue that keeps your skin structure intact and connects your muscles and bones.
Your body naturally makes collagen, but as you get older, the amount it produces starts to drop. This decrease in collagen leads to less elastic skin and the emergence of wrinkles.
When collagen levels dip, the fat underneath your skin also decreases. This creates empty space beneath your skin layers, causing it to droop or sag instead of staying firm.
Apart from aging, certain lifestyle choices can speed up wrinkle formation.
Genetics play a big role, but factors like smoking, sun exposure, drastic weight changes, and a diet heavy on processed foods can also contribute to wrinkles appearing earlier than usual.
Home Remedies
When you look into home remedies for sagging skin, you’ll see they’re mostly about preventing sagging rather than reversing wrinkles.
For actually getting your skin to look like it used to, clinical procedures are usually more effective.
That being said, here’re some ways you might consider:
1. Antioxidants
Antioxidants are packed with vitamins C, B, and E. They help make your skin more resistant to oxidative stress, mainly aiming to prevent wrinkles rather than reverse sagging skin.
Some evidence suggests that antioxidant ingredients can reduce redness and inflammation, promoting healthier skin.
2. Cell regulators
Cell regulators are creams and lotions packed with special ingredients like peptides, retinols, or growth factors. These ingredients work to boost collagen production in your skin, which some say can turn back the clock on aging.
Retinol, which is a type of vitamin A, is commonly found in anti-aging creams. However, another form of vitamin A called tretinoin might be even better at firming up your neck and face.
Studies have shown that tretinoin can perk up your skin, increasing collagen production and making sagging skin less noticeable.
3. Face yoga
Face yoga, also known as facial exercises, is a practice some believe can tighten your skin and make you look younger. However, most dermatologists don’t think it works. They say that repeatedly making certain facial expressions can actually contribute to wrinkles.
4. Jade rollers, radio frequency (RF) gadgets, and microneedlers
At-home devices like jade rollers, radio frequency (RF) gadgets, and microneedlers are believed by some to erase wrinkles.
RF devices, in particular, might actually help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. A study from 2017 discovered that using an RF device daily for eight weeks increased the production of certain proteins in the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in visibly tighter skin among participants.
However, there’s no solid clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of several other popular at-home devices, such as jade rollers.
While home microneedling devices may help with skin tightening, you should get the treatments from a dermatologist for safety concerns.
5. Collagen supplements
Taking collagen supplements by mouth might help prevent loose skin as you get older.
One type called collagen tripeptide has been researched for its anti-aging benefits. Drinking collagen supplements is likely better for stopping your skin from sagging before it happens rather than fixing it afterward.
6. Sunscreen
Using sunscreen is an easy way to take care of your face and neck and prevent sagging skin. Wearing sunscreen daily protects your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and lowers your chances of getting skin cancer.
7. Stay hydrated
Keeping yourself hydrated makes your skin appear younger and improves your mood and outlook. If your skin doesn’t get enough water regularly, you’ll start seeing more noticeable signs of aging.
In-Office Procedures
If home remedies aren’t firming up your skin like you want, consider talking to a dermatologist about in-office treatments.
1. Laser Peel
A laser peel is a treatment that aims to make your skin look better by getting rid of the top layer while boosting collagen in the deeper layers. This can improve your skin’s texture and tone.
The price for one laser peel treatment is typically between $1,200 and $2,000.
The results aren’t permanent, but you might enjoy firmer skin for several years after the treatment.
2. Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy focuses on areas like under your chin, your face, and neck. It’s usually affordable, costing less than $2,000.
Ultrasound waves go deep into your skin, boosting collagen production. Some people see results after one session, while others need more than one.
3. Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency treatment also aims to firm up your skin by boosting protein production in the deeper layers.
Studies show it’s as good as or better than firming creams. Each session costs around $2,000, and you might need repeat treatments every few years.
4. Microneedling
Microneedling stimulates collagen with tiny needles pricking your skin. Prices vary but can range from $100 to $700 per session.
You’ll likely need multiple sessions over a few months for results. It may take a while to see changes, and they’re not usually permanent.
5. Botox
Botox is a simple injection that reduces wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles. It can prevent certain facial muscles from moving, giving your skin a smoother appearance.
Botox typically costs between $300 and $400 per treatment and lasts around three to four months.
6. Kybella
Kybella injections target and destroy fat cells under your chin, reducing the appearance of a double chin. It’s a permanent solution, but multiple treatments might be needed.
On average, Kybella treatments cost around $1,350 per session.
7. Facelift
A facelift is a surgical procedure where a doctor removes extra, sagging skin, giving your face a tighter look.
It typically costs between $7,000 and $11,000. The surgery is done under general anesthesia and may include your neck skin too.
There are “complete” facelifts with long incisions along your hairline and down your face. “Mini” facelifts use shorter incisions and need less time to recover.
Final Words
If you’re not happy with your skin’s appearance, think about how you’re feeling. You might be a good fit for non-surgical face-firming treatments if:
- You’ve tried home remedies or products for sagging skin.
- You’re not pregnant or nursing.
- You have mild to moderate skin sagging that’s getting worse.
If sagging skin affects your life or self-esteem, talk to a doctor. They can suggest the right treatment based on your skin type and its condition.
Dr. Ashley Morgan is a dermatologist who offers online skincare consultations to help people with various skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, oily skin, dry skin, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.
She graduated from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor with a Bachelor of Science and a Doctor of Medicine. With extensive experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, she stays updated on the latest skincare technology to provide the best care for her patients. If you have any skin issues, let Dr. Ashley Morgan help you out.