A Complete Guide to Loose Skin & Getting Rid of Loose Skin

Loose skin, also known as skin laxity, is a very common term used to refer to skin that lacks firmness, elasticity, and tightness. Whilst it can affect different areas of the face, neck, and body, generally it appears in the same way, which is saggy and, in some cases, also wrinkled. The extent of loose skin on an individual’s face and/or other areas of the body is generally dependent on other specific factors including overall skin health. Despite this, for many people, loose skin can be a source of concern and really affect their self-confidence hence why in recent years, more people have been seeking different ways to tighten loose skin.

What Causes Loose Skin

There are several factors that can cause loose skin on the face and body, and sometimes it can be a combination of two or more. Some of these include:

Natural Effects of ageing

Many people develop loose skin as a result of ageing, this is because as we age, our skin naturally loses its elasticity and collagen which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and supple.

Loose skin after weight loss

Another common reason for loose skin can be significant or rapid weight loss, especially when a large amount of weight is lost over a very short period of time, therefore individuals may find that their new body shape comes with loose skin in certain areas.

Loose skin after pregnancy

During pregnancy, the skin stretches to accommodate the growing fetus. After giving birth, the skin may not regain its original elasticity, resulting in loose skin in the stomach area.

A Deeper Understanding of Loose Skin

Whilst several factors can contribute to the development of loose skin, it’s worth noting that naturally there is a gradual reduction of collagen production in the body through the ageing process which can lead to a moderate loss of skin elasticity and firmness. Loose skin is not limited to one area of the body, but rather can occur in various parts of the body, including the face, neck, arms, stomach, thighs, and buttocks. Any areas that are prone to significant stretching or weight fluctuation can be more susceptible to developing loose skin.

How to Prevent Loose Skin

Some degree of loose skin is natural, however maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise to build and tone the muscles, a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients for skin health, and adequate hydration, can help support skin health and minimise the risk of excessive loose skin on the body or face. It’s important to note that individual factors such as genetics and age play a role, and some degree of loose skin may be inevitable, but these preventive measures can potentially reduce its severity.

Effects of Loose Skin

The effects of loose skin can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as the degree of skin laxity and the specific body areas affected. Loose skin can have both a physical and emotional impact on individuals depending on their specific circumstances. Physically, for some people it may cause discomfort, chafing, or difficulty fitting into clothing. Loose skin on certain areas of the body can also affect body contour and proportions, altering one’s physical appearance and therefore lead to self-consciousness, lowered self-esteem, and body image. However, it’s important to remember that loose skin is a common occurrence and that support, self-acceptance, and seeking advice from a licensed medical practitioner can help individuals navigate the effects of loose skin.

Types of Loose Skin

When referring to different types of loose skin, it typically relates to the areas of the body where skin laxity commonly occurs. These can include loose skin on the face and neck which can result in sagging jowls or the appearance of wrinkles and folds around the cheeks, jawline, and loose skin on the chin. Loose skin on the upper arms is often colloquially referred to as ‘bat wings’ due to the skin hanging down and lacking firmness when the arms are extended or raised. Whilst many individuals primarily think of loose skin on the stomach when considering the different types, loose skin can also occur on thigh area resulting in a ‘sagging’ or ‘dimpled’ appearance and also on the breast in cases of significant weight loss or after pregnancy / breastfeeding.

How to Get Rid of Loose Skin

The most suitable approach to get rid of loose skin depends on specific factors depending on the individual such as the extent of skin laxity, overall health, and personal goals. Though there are several different options to tighten loose skin on the face and body, it is essential for each individual to consult with a medical professional before seeking any invasive or non-invasive treatment to get rid of loose skin.

Lifestyle Changes to Tighten Loose Skin

Making significant lifestyle changes can be a natural method for those looking to tighten loose skin depending on what factors are contributing to the skin laxity on the body. Strength training in order to improve muscle tone can give the skin a more firm and toned appearance. As well as this, good hydration and consuming a balanced diet with essential nutrients that support skin health can promote overall skin elasticity though it may not completely get rid of loose skin.

Medical and Cosmetic Treatments for Loose Skin

Certain non-invasive or minimally invasive treatments for loose skin such as laser therapy and radiofrequency can stimulate collagen production in order to tighten the skin in both the face and body. Though it usually takes more than one session, it can be an effective method to tighten and treat different areas of the body, however it’s essential to have a thorough consultation beforehand to ensure that the method is suitable for the individual’s needs.

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Loose Skin Removal

The main difference between surgical and non-surgical loose skin removal methods lies in the approach and the level of invasiveness involved. However, the choice for many individuals between the two depends on particular factors such as the severity of loose skin, personal preferences, overall health and desired outcomes. Surgical procedures for loose skin removal typically involve making incisions to remove excess skin and reshape the underlying tissues. While surgical methods generally provide more significant and immediate results, they involve incisions, sutures, and a recovery period. Risks associated with surgery, such as scarring, infection, and potential complications, should be considered.

On the other hand, non-surgical approaches for loose skin removal focus on stimulating collagen production, tightening the skin, and improving its overall appearance without surgery. Non-surgical treatments typically require little to no downtime and have fewer risks and potential complications compared to surgery. However, the results may require multiple treatment sessions for optimal outcomes depending on the severity of the loose skin and technology used.

NuEra Tight Body Sculpting

Radiofrequency skin tightening has quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to safely and effectively tighten loose skin without surgery. The non-invasive method consists of elevating and regulating temperature within the skin tissue in order to reach the required degree to stimulate collagen production.

Using FocalRF technology, the NuEra Tight by Lumenis specifically targets the energy penetration to the dermis layer to safely and effectively treat the area of concern. The result? A tailored treatment to significantly improve sagging skin with natural-looking results and no downtime.

Loose Skin Removal Cost

The cost of removing loose skin can vary widely depending on several factors, including the specific procedure or treatment chose and the extent of loose skin requiring removal. Surgical procedures for loose skin removal tend to be more expensive compared to non-surgical treatments like laser therapy or radiofrequency. To get an accurate cost estimate, it is recommended to consult with a qualified medical professional who can evaluate the individual situation and treatment options to provide a cost estimate based on the specific needs and goals.

About Lumenis
Lumenis is a global leader in the field of minimally-invasive clinical solutions for the Surgical, Ophthalmology, and Aesthetic markets, and is a world-renowned expert in developing and commercializing innovative energy-based technologies, including Laser, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Radio-Frequency (RF). For 50 years, Lumenis’ ground-breaking products have redefined medical treatments and have set numerous technological and clinical gold-standards. Lumenis has successfully created solutions for previously untreatable conditions, as well as designed advanced technologies that have revolutionized existing treatment methods. visit:  www.lumenis.co.uk