Skin Tightening Or Creams And Lotions? FAQs About This Treatment

Is skin tightening a better choice than facial firming creams? Crepey or saggy skin isn't something that you just have to get used to. Even though everyone's skin ages over time, you can combat this aesthetic issue. Creams, lotions, and other over-the-counter treatments claim to tighten and rejuvenate. But is there a better alternative? Take a look at what you need to know about your skin and minimally-invasive tightening.

Why Does Skin Sag?

Saggy skin is a normal part of aging. It happens to everyone — but at different times. Over time collagen and elastin production slows. These proteins are responsible for giving your skin a firm, plump, youthful look. With less collagen and elastin, your skin loses elasticity and may start to seem crepey or sag. 

Along with age, excessive UV exposure over time, some types of environmental pollutants, and some poor lifestyle factors may affect collagen and elastin production. Some people may also experience a similar type of sagging after a significant weight loss. 

What Is Skin Tightening Rejuvenation?

As the name implies, this type of cosmetic procedure tightens the skin. If the skin on your face, neck, or body doesn't look as smooth or plump as it used to, this procedure can provide a rejuvenating (or firming) effect. 

There are three primary methods of tightening used for rejuvenation. These include ultrasound, radiofrequency (RF), and intense pulsed light (IPL) combined with RF. Ultrasound therapy uses a focused type of wave energy to heat the skin. This may increase collagen production and lead to firmer, younger-looking skin. 

RF treatments use radio wave energy to firm the epidermal layers of the skin. When combined with intense pulsed light, an IPL/RF can reach the deeper layers of the skin and jumpstart collagen production. 

Why Choose Tightening Over A Cream or Lotion?

Some facial creams and lotions claim to firm, tighten, or smooth the skin. But do they really compare to a tightening rejuvenation procedure? 

The changes you may see from a cream or lotion vary depending on the ingredients and the quality of the product. Many lotions/creams hydrate the skin and create a plumping effect. But these products don't truly stimulate collagen production. This can create a subtle or minimal change. In comparison, the methods used for a skin tightening procedure can achieve a much more noticeable effect. 

While you may need multiple tightening treatments, you won't need to use a product daily. This can make a doctor's office or medical spa rejuvenation procedure an easier option than long-term facial cream or lotion use.


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