The 7 Most Effective Skin Tightening Procedures

February 5, 2023 by VitalSkin Dermatology

As we age, one thing is inevitable— our skin begins to lose its elasticity. Skin laxity and sagging is a problem for many individuals, many of whom seek out skin tightening procedures to address the issue. 

While invasive procedures such as facelifts can address the issue, not everyone wants to undergo an invasive procedure. Fortunately, there are non-invasive and minimally-invasive procedures that a professional dermatologist can perform to help tighten the skin. 

The following are 7 of the most effective skin tightening procedures that can be used to rejuvenate and tighten your skin. 

1. Ultrasound

A non-invasive procedure, ultrasound uses heat to help you begin to produce more collagen, which is a key substance in the body that gives strength to hair, bones and skin, and gives skin a plumper and more youthful look. Patients who undergo ultrasound treatment to address skin sagging can see modest results within two to six months. Multiple treatments can deliver more substantive results. 

2. Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency treatment can come in both non-invasive and minimally-invasive varieties. In the non-invasive approach, the dermatologist uses a device on the skin to heat the tissue beneath, which helps encourage the production of collagen in the body. The minimally-invasive version of radiofrequency treatment involves the insertion of tiny needles into the skin so that the heat is applied more directly to the areas that produce collagen.

 This minimally-invasive alternative works well on the neck and upper arms. Most patients feel some tightening after one session, but collagen production takes some time. Typically, the most dramatic results start to appear after six months with non-invasive radiofrequency and one month with minimally-invasive radiofrequency. With proper skin care, results from radiofrequency can last anywhere from one to three years. 

 3. Laser Treatment

Your dermatologist can also use lasers to send heat deep into the skin’s layers and increase collagen production. Laser treatment is most often used to tighten skin on the abdomen or upper arms. Typically, dermatologists recommend 3 to 5 laser treatments, with results appearing 2 to 6 months after your last visit. 

4. Neuromodulators

While neuromodulators are often used to address wrinkles, they do have applications in addressing skin laxity, particularly in the neck. When so-called ‘turkey’ neck happens, your dermatologist can use a neuromodulator such as Botox to treat the issue. The neuromodulator works to relax the platysma muscle bands in the neck associated with the condition. 

 5. Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is an extremely effective way to address skin laxity. With this skin tightening treatment, a patient can see results in as few as two weeks. However, laser resurfacing comes with a good deal of downtime after the procedure. There is also a greater risk of scarring after the procedure than with other skin tightening procedures. 

 6. Chemical Peels

One of the most affordable, low-maintenance options when it comes to treating skin laxity is the chemical peel. Unlike the other treatment options, a chemical peel does not encourage the production of collagen in the skin. However, it does improve the appearance of the skin, which can diminish some signs of sagging. 

7. Quality Skin Care

Finally, taking good care of your skin, using a good moisturizer and working regularly with a dermatologist can also help treat sagging skin. As with a chemical peel, it is a topical intervention; keeping skin as healthy and toned as possible can help improve the appearance of sagging skin. Sagging skin does not need to affect anyone’s self-esteem. With the wealth of treatment options out there, anyone can find a skin tightening procedure that works for them. If you are interested in exploring various skin tightening treatments, get in touch with a dermatologist today to explore which procedures will work best for you and your skin.