How to tighten sagging and loose facial skin

Facial sagging and drooping are usually caused by factors such as aging, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, unhealthy lifestyle habits, obesity, or scleroderma. Treatments such as facial thread lifting, Thermage, facelift surgery, or medication may be used under medical guidance to restore skin firmness. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Aging

As people age, collagen and elastic fibers in the skin gradually decrease, which may lead to loss of facial skin elasticity and result in sagging and looseness. It is helpful to consume more foods rich in collagen to slow down the skin aging process. Additionally, facial thread lifting surgery can be performed under a doctor's guidance. This procedure involves implanting protein threads into the subcutaneous fascia layer to stimulate collagen reorganization and regeneration, achieving facial lifting and tightening effects. The typical reference cost for facial thread lifting is 6,000–8,000 RMB per session. Improvement is generally noticeable within 10–20 days after the procedure, although risks such as infection or bleeding may occur.

2. UV Exposure

Prolonged sun exposure allows UV rays to damage collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, leading to facial skin laxity and sagging. When going outdoors, it is recommended to apply sunscreen and wear hats or use umbrellas to reduce UV damage. Under medical advice, Thermage treatment may also be considered. This uses radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen contraction and regeneration, improving skin tightness and elasticity. The typical reference cost for Thermage is 10,000–30,000 RMB per session. Noticeable improvement can usually be seen, though adverse reactions such as skin burns or pigmentation may occur.

3. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic sleep deprivation may accelerate collagen loss, resulting in facial skin relaxation. It is important to quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and ensure sufficient sleep to maintain healthy skin. Under a doctor’s recommendation, facelift surgery may be performed. This surgical procedure involves separating loose facial skin and fascia layers, removing excess skin tissue, and tightening and repositioning facial muscles and fascia to achieve firmer skin. The typical reference cost for facelift surgery ranges from 20,000 to 80,000 RMB per session. Improvements are generally visible within 1–3 months, but potential complications include infection, bleeding, or hypertrophic scarring.

4. Obesity

Obesity may result from high-calorie diets and lack of physical activity. Excessive fat accumulation increases pressure on the skin, reducing its elasticity and contributing to facial skin laxity. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath and abnormal blood lipids. Treatment may include medications such as Orlistat capsules, Metformin hydrochloride tablets, or Pioglitazone hydrochloride tablets, used under medical supervision.

5. Scleroderma

Scleroderma is typically associated with genetic factors and autoimmune abnormalities. This condition may cause loss of skin collagen, weakening structural support and leading to the aforementioned symptoms. It may present with skin hardening and looseness. Treatment options include medications such as Cyclosporine soft capsules, Tacrolimus ointment, and Nifedipine tablets, used according to medical instructions.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and proper daily skincare routine is essential. Use skincare products containing collagen and elastin, and keep the skin well-moisturized.