How to address sagging skin in women, and how to make it tighter

Under normal circumstances, skin laxity in women may be caused by factors such as aging, excessive weight loss, ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and others. Treatments may include thread lifting, facelift surgery, radiofrequency skin tightening, or medication under the guidance of a physician. It is recommended to visit a reputable medical institution and undergo these procedures under professional medical supervision to ensure effectiveness and safety. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

As women age, their skin metabolism slows down, and collagen and elastin gradually diminish, which may lead to decreased skin elasticity and firmness, resulting in sagging skin. Daily hydration and moisturizing, along with appropriate supplementation of vitamins and collagen, can help delay skin aging. Thread lifting may also be performed under medical supervision. This procedure involves implanting absorbable protein threads into deeper layers of the skin. The mechanical lifting effect of the threads helps elevate and fix sagging skin, achieving a tightening and lifting outcome. The typical reference cost for thread lifting ranges from 5,000 to 20,000 yuan per session. Results are generally noticeable within 1–2 weeks, although side effects such as swelling and pain may occur.

2. Excessive Weight Loss

If women pursue slimness through extreme dieting or intense exercise, rapid loss of subcutaneous fat may result in loose, sagging skin. It is advisable to lose weight moderately through balanced nutrition and appropriate physical activity, avoiding extreme weight-loss methods. Alternatively, following medical advice, a facelift (rhytidectomy) may be considered. This surgical procedure involves making incisions in concealed areas to remove excess loose skin and underlying tissues, thereby tightening the skin and improving its appearance. The typical reference cost for facelift surgery ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement usually appears within 10–15 days, but potential complications such as infection, bleeding, or hematoma may occur.

3. Ultraviolet Radiation

Prolonged UV exposure in women can damage collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, leading to soft, slack skin. It is recommended that women apply sunscreen during outdoor activities to reduce UV damage. Radiofrequency skin tightening may also be performed under a doctor’s recommendation. This treatment delivers radiofrequency energy to deep skin layers, stimulating collagen regeneration and reorganization to enhance skin firmness. The typical reference cost for radiofrequency skin tightening ranges from 1,000 to 4,000 yuan per session. Improvements are often visible within 1–2 weeks, though temporary redness, swelling, or pigmentation may occur.

4. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism may be triggered by medication, immune system abnormalities, or other causes. Reduced thyroid function can slow metabolism, negatively affecting skin elasticity and firmness, potentially leading to skin laxity. Symptoms may include dry skin and edema. Treatment may involve medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, propranolol hydrochloride tablets, or methylprednisolone tablets, taken as prescribed by a physician.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes may develop due to long-term high-calorie diets, lack of physical activity, and other factors. A persistently high blood glucose level can impair microcirculation in the skin, reducing nutrient supply and contributing to the symptoms described above. Common accompanying symptoms include increased thirst, appetite, and urination. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glipizide tablets, or acarbose tablets for management.

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, while avoiding chronic sleep deprivation and overexertion, is essential for supporting healthy skin.