What to do about loose facial skin, and how to make it firm and tight

Facial skin laxity is usually caused by factors such as skin aging, nutritional deficiencies, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, cutis laxa, or hypothyroidism. Treatments such as facelift surgery, hyaluronic acid fillers, radiofrequency skin tightening, and medication may be used under medical guidance to restore skin firmness. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Skin Aging

With age, the skin's collagen and elastic fibers gradually decrease, which may lead to loss of elasticity and sagging skin. Using skincare products rich in collagen can help slow down the aging process. Alternatively, a facelift procedure may be performed under medical supervision, involving surgical removal of excess loose skin and tightening of the underlying fascia layer to improve facial sagging. The typical reference cost for a facelift is 20,000–100,000 RMB per session. Noticeable improvement generally appears within 1–2 months, although risks such as infection and bleeding may occur.

2. Nutritional Deficiency

Long-term dietary imbalances and insufficient intake of proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients may impair skin health, leading to reduced elasticity and skin laxity. A balanced diet with adequate protein- and vitamin-rich foods is recommended. Hyaluronic acid fillers may also be administered under medical advice, injecting hyaluronic acid into the subcutaneous fascia layer to nourish skin cells and enhance skin firmness and fullness. The typical reference cost is 2,000–10,000 RMB per injection. Improvement is usually seen within 1–2 weeks, though adverse reactions such as allergic reactions or infection may occur.

3. Ultraviolet Radiation

Prolonged exposure to UV rays may accelerate skin aging, damage elastic fibers, and cause collagen loss, resulting in skin laxity. Regular use of sunscreen is recommended to minimize UV damage. Radiofrequency skin tightening may also be considered under medical guidance, using radiofrequency energy to stimulate fibroblasts, promote collagen production, and improve skin tightness. The typical reference cost is 1,500–4,000 RMB per session. Results are generally visible within 1–2 weeks, but side effects such as skin burns or blistering may occur.

4. Cutis Laxa

Cutis laxa is primarily caused by genetic mutations, improper medication use, or endocrine disorders. It leads to impaired synthesis or abnormal degradation of elastic fibers, manifesting as loose, sagging skin. Symptoms often include drooping eyelids and sagging cheeks. Treatment under medical supervision may include topical medications such as vitamin E cream, asiaticoside cream, or recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel.

5. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism may result from iodine deficiency or thyroid gland damage, leading to insufficient thyroid hormone production and slowed metabolism, which can cause dry, loose skin. Symptoms may include cold intolerance and fatigue. Treatment under medical direction may involve medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, ensuring sufficient sleep, and practicing proper sun protection when outdoors—avoiding prolonged UV exposure—can help preserve overall skin health.