You might start to notice loose skin, or skin laxity, as early as 30 years old. It is one of the most common complaints we hear at Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care, and why we offer a variety of treatment options. Skin laxity is caused by a decrease in collagen production, decrease in “good fat” in the face (which is what causes that hollowed appearance), as well as gravity and genetics. You might also experience loose skin if you have lost a significant amount of weight or have experienced weight fluctuations throughout your life.
No matter the cause of your skin laxity, you have treatment options. However, keep in mind that at a certain point, laxity might be so severe that only surgical intervention is recommended. Until then, take a look at our top recommended non-invasive and minimally-invasive options:
1. Lasers!
Laser skin rejuvenation is one of the best ways to tighten the skin while also taking care of a host of other common problems like hyperpigmentation and poor tone. We have one of the largest collections of lasers in the region with options for all skin tones. Two great options for skin tightening include the Fraxel Dual and CO2 lasers. You can expect some pinkness after these treatments, but the downtime is quite brief and easy.
Alternatively, gentler lasers like broadband light (BBL) and Clear + Brilliant can also help with skin tightening. However, these are not as aggressive as some other lasers (in fact, Clear + Brilliant is often recommended as a pre-juvenation treatment for those in their twenties). The right laser for you will be decided in collaboration with your aesthetician. Keep in mind that laser treatments are not usually “one and done,” but rather require multiple treatments, with routine maintenance sessions, for the best results.
2. Dermal fillers.
Sometimes the best way to correct skin laxity isn’t by tightening the skin, but rather by filling in the lost volume. When we start to lose the “good fat” in our face and tops of our hands, it can lead to a witch-like, hollow appearance. When lost volume is the culprit, tightening the skin (either through surgery or lasers) will not give you the results you want. Instead, a dermal filler such as a hyaluronic injectable (HA) like Juvederm can restore a youthful appearance.
There are also “fillers” that don’t provide immediate results like HA based ones, but instead work via collagen induction therapy. They take some time for results to show, but offer results that last longer than HA fillers (up to two years).
3. Botox.
Botox to freeze lines and wrinkles that highlight skin laxity. In some cases, you can’t tell skin is lax if wrinkles, lines, and creases are gone! Botox isn’t technically a skin tightening treatment, but it can address the end result of lax skin. Many people consider Botox a staple maintenance treatment with injections needed every 3 – 6 months depending on the treatment site. You can also use Botox as a preventative measure, training muscles to avoid forming lines in the first place.
4. Thermage FLX
Thermage FLX is all about skin tightening. It works via collagen induction therapy, heating up the deeper layers of tissue without harming the superficial layer. Designed specifically to tighten skin on the face and body, most people need just one treatment to get the best results (which last up to two years). This treatment is exclusively used to tighten and tone the skin with results so significant that it has been dubbed a surgical lift alternative.
5. Morpheus 8
Morpheus8 Fractional RF Microneedling combines two tightening procedures in one. This latest technology combines radiofrequency (RF) energy with the power of microneedling, delivering both treatments at once. Both RF and microneedling kick-start collagen production at the treatment site, so you can double down on your commitment to turning back the clock.
When it comes to getting skin that looks youthful, taking care of laxity is a must. However, remember that there are other signs of aging such as lost volume and sun damage. Let’s work together to create the ultimate treatment plan for you using the latest aesthetic services. It’s not just the treatment but the provider that makes all the difference in your results, so work with the best. Get in touch with Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today by giving us a call or filling out the online form.