Let’s be honest, sagging skin is only cute if you’re a pug or shar pei! Furthermore, we’re made to believe that sagging skin is just a part of the aging process as if we are to accept this as fact and resign ourselves to looking older than we really feel.
But is sagging skin really just a part of life?
Are there contributing factors that can be reduced or even eliminated to avoid gravity’s curse?
There are in-fact several key factors that contribute to sagging skin. Here are some of those factors and preventative measures that can be taken to maintain your fountain of youth:
Loss of Collagen and Elastin
As we get older, our skin loses collagen and elastin which is the supportive, connective tissue in your skin that keeps everything tight and fresh. Age also usually results in the loss of facial fat which causes the skin to droop.
Sun Exposure
The decrease in collagen can be accelerated by UV rays (ie: sun exposure). UV exposure can cause the collagen to prematurely break down. Avoid this issue by always applying sunscreen, even during the winter.
Weight Loss
Significant weight loss can also play a large role in skin sagging. As we gain weight, our skin stretches to accommodate the extra weight. When weight is lost, especially as you get older, the skin doesn’t bounce back as easily, often resulting in jangly jowls and hanging cheeks.
Genetics
This one is not fun to hear, but sometimes it boils down to genetics. While research has shown that your skincare habits and lifestyle choices are more impacting then your mother’s tendency to wrinkle, genetics still play a role in your aging process. If you’ve been blessed with your family’s long line of high cheekbones, chances are your skin is less likely to droop as much with age due to the triangular shape of your face.
But be warned, no perfect gene pool can make up for years of smoking, sun damage, or a poor skincare regimen.
At the end of the day: Prevention is Key.
* Always wear sunscreen. We can’t stress this enough.
SPF + 365 days = Beautiful Skin
* Practice a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and regular exercise routine to maintain a strong and lean figure
* Start or continue a strong anti-aging skincare regimen. Medical grade retinols (boosts collagen), vitamin C serums (restores elasticity), and products containing hyaluronic acid (a skin plumping ingredient) are all instrumental in fighting the war on sagging skin.
* In-office procedures such as Clear+Brilliant and SkinPen are incredible for collagen and elastin stimulation, while Ultherapy is the ultimate non-invasive lifting and tightening procedure. It uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production, which can result in a gradual tightening and lifting of the skin over time, reducing lines, wrinkles, and loose skin.
While you may still be searching for the magical “Fountain of Youth,” with healthy habits, good lifestyle choices, and the greatest technology in the aesthetic industry, it’s waiting right here for you.
If you are interested in learning more about any of the procedures listed above, we always offer complimentary, no obligation consultations at all of our locations. Call us today! 864.372.3003