Sagging skin can be a drag, whether it’s a result of having lost a lot of weight or simply growing older. A loosening of areas such as the neck, belly and thighs is usually attributed to a combination of aging and genetics. Those who are entering their 50s and 60s, for example, have less elasticity in their skin compared to younger people, and so they have a higher risk for the condition.
For those who exercise on a regular basis, gradually shedding the pounds is a good way to prevent drastic skin changes. Meanwhile, consuming a nutrient-rich diet that has plenty of vitamin E can promote elasticity and prevent damage. Those who consume plenty of vegetable oils, nuts, olives and seeds, as well as greens like spinach or asparagus, can decrease their chances of having saggy skin.
People who already have the condition in noticeable areas such as the neck may want to look into a cosmetic procedure like Thermage, which can help tighten up skin for a younger, fresher appearance.
“I have a lot of people in their 30s, 40s and 50s who don’t need a facelift but have a little excess fat and maybe even some excess skin in the neck area,” said plastic surgeon W. Jason Martin, quoted by American Health and Beauty. “We can clean up the whole jaw line, tighten up the neck area and have a fairly transformative effect on the patient.”
Such cosmetic therapies are becoming increasingly common. Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons indicate that more than 11.5 million minimally invasive techniques were performed last year in the U.S.
The Thermage treatment is particularly recommended for loose skin because it only requires one treatment. During the one-hour procedure, radio-frequency waves target the collagen beneath the surface of the skin. This encourages greater production of the protein, which results in tighter, smoother skin and a more youthful appearance.
Many patients have expressed satisfaction with the technique, which can be done on a number of places, including the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, hands and underarms. The process is particularly convenient in that most people go right back to their daily routine afterward and do not require any type of special care to ensure effective results.
