You know what they say about ‘beauty’ right? That it’s a good letter of introduction, sure, but it’s only skin deep. Well, if that skin is showing some signs of experience, and is perhaps not as taut as it once was, then you’ve come to the right place.
These days, there are several ways to achieve the results of a facelift without actually having to go under the knife, and these include non-invasive procedures like radiofrequency treatments alongside all natural, at home methods such as the application of aloe vera or coffee. If you’re keen to learn more, then read on; here are 5 types of non-invasive remedies for sagging skin.
Laser Treatment
Firstly, let’s consider procedures which are carried out by plastic surgeons but don’t involve more ‘traditional’ invasive surgery. Increasingly, modern non-surgical procedures are able to produce excellent results, with laser treatments perhaps the most effective, durable alternative to facelifts when looking to lessen the appearance of sagging, make scars look less pronounced, and smooth rough skin.
During the skin tightening (often referred to as laser facial resurfacing) procedure, a laser is used to stimulate the skin’s collagen production and strengthen elastin, and is used primarily for the chin, face, and parts of the neck.
It’s recommended that the client undergoes three or four sessions, four weeks apart, for optimum results and to negate the risk of any unwanted side effects. That said, the procedure is generally considered relatively risk free, with more common side effects including redness and swelling in the targeted areas. Usually these symptoms disperse in a couple of days.
The procedure’s cost varies from one clinic to another as it depends on the technology being employed in the treatment and the current elasticity of the client’s skin, though for a full course of treatment, you should expect to pay in the region of £1000.
With the popularity of this procedure rising, it’s now common to see beauty salons from all over the world are looking for medical laser systems for sale because of the high demand for this kind of treatment.
Alternatively, it’s possible to use red light therapy at home, which is also known as low level laser therapy, and is generally less likely to provoke unwanted side effects. That said, caution is always recommended.
If you’re looking for treatment in England, it’s recommended that you check the Care Quality Commission (CQC) database for clinics registered to perform this service.
Ultrasound Skin Tightening
Ultrasound skin tightening – also known as ultherapy – is another modern facial treatment approach favoured by many due to its non-invasive nature. Similar to laser treatment, it promotes collagen production in the skin, using heat to make this happen.
The procedure is carried out by the use of a wand that is handheld, with the device delivering energy via ultrasound waves. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the number of treatments for a person depends on the age of the client, the nature of the skin, and the level of elasticity already present, though one course of treatment is often sufficient.
After a treatment has been completed, the effects don’t usually fully announce themselves until two months later; during this time, new collagen is produced. The treatment generally takes just an hour, and the minimal downtime following the procedure – for a period of twenty-four hours, one may find the skin exhibiting some redness which is a normal effect – is one of the chief reasons clients opt for ultherapy.
The NHS advise a certain degree of caution and diligence in arranging to have any cosmetic procedures abroad.
Once again, the CQC is your friend here.
Diet & Supplements
If you’re not keen on the idea of any kind of surgery but are interested in skin tightening, skin firming or other methods aimed at preventing skin sagging, then there are dietary adjustments and supplements available that have the potential to promote tauter, firmer skin.
These supplements generally focus on promoting collagen production by giving the body the vitamins and nutrients – particularly in the form of hyaluronic acid – it needs to stimulate and strengthen its natural occurrence.
That said, it’s generally possible to gain all of these vitamins and nutrients through diet alone. According to the Healthline, ‘’Vitamin C is critical for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid has been touted for speeding up recovery time and relieving painful joints. Without adequate levels of vitamin C, your body will not gain the full benefit of foods containing hyaluronic acid.’’
Vitamin C can be found in high quantities in citrus fruits, peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, blueberries and strawberries. Hyaluronic acid can also be found as a standalone supplement in health food stores.
Eating foods high in antioxidants is also wise, in order to deal with any inflammation which could be leading to skin problems. Dark green vegetables, berries, nuts and (praise the lord!) dark chocolate are in rich in the stuff.
Check out these tips on how to get more collagen in your diet for more on the subject.
Skin Firming Creams
Using skin firming cosmetic products may also help in promoting the appearance of youthful skin. Though it is worth noting that the effect from such creams is temporary, they can, in the short term, help inflamed areas of the skin and neutralise the harm caused by free radicals, bringing about an improvement in skin elasticity when applied topically.
That said, experts generally believe that there are no creams on the market which can comprehensively tighten the skin in the long term.
Natural Home Remedies
Apart from these synthetic products, many prefer to use all-natural home remedies to de-stress the skin and reduce inflammation. The use of aloe vera is perhaps the most popular all-natural treatment associated with an improvement in skin condition. With the procedure, crush the succulent leaves after washing. Apply the paste on the face and leave it for around 20 minutes. Later, rinse with lukewarm water. Alternatively, you can find aloe vera cream in pharmacies and health food stores.
Using egg white and honey is another popular option, though there is no scientific backing for this. This introduces the albumin protein to the skin which could gently aid in restoring the skin’s natural glow. Simply beat an egg white until stiff, and then mix in a teaspoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey, then apply to a cleansed face, washing off after 15 minutes with warm water. Repeat the procedure three to four times every week for consistency.
You could also try ground coffee and coconut oil. Coffee is rich in caffeine which has antioxidant properties and can increase blood flow, whilst coconut oil has been linked with reducing inflammation. That said, for those with oily skin, it can clog pores. If you’re keen to give it a go, then a mixture of ground coffee (1/2 cup), coconut oil (two tablespoons), cinnamon (half teaspoon, and brown sugar (1/2 cup) will see you right.
The Bottom Line
If you’re suffering from a loss of confidence due to the appearance of sagging in the skin, then there are remedies available beyond the expensive, exhaustive facelift.