What is a Skin Firming Treatment?

Skin firming/tightening refers to different equipment, products and procedures that help firm the skin and activate the elements that will lead to a firmer and more youthful-looking skin. However, it is said that these varied approaches can advertise how effective they are in “skin firming”, but the results of using them will vary. This treatment is typically used on sagging, loose, or general aging skin. 

When we age, our skin inevitably loses its elasticity, and moisture diminishes, which results in lines, wrinkles, and sagging. There are a variety of factors that make up the look and feel of your skin. Gravity, time, pollution, genetics, exposure to smoke, radiation, and air pollutants can be some of the factors that could damage your skin without knowing. According to Dermatologist Dr Phillip Artemi, “75% of what you see in the mirror at 50 or 60 is due to sun damage.” Moreover, as we all age, the building blocks of the skin (mainly collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid) diminishes over time. Our body’s ligaments, which provide a support structure for these building blocks, start to weaken, which causes the skin to get thinner and lose its vibrant tone. 

Because of technology nowadays, finding ways to keep your skin youthful and firm is no longer a problem. In Australia, various treatments can help make it possible for people who want to look youthful.

Skincare Products for Skin Firming

Firming Creams

Skin firming creams and lotions are called cell regulators. These skin firming/tightening products include essential ingredients that are beneficial to keeping the skin firm. Ingredients such as peptides, retinols, or growth factor ingredients, aim to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

A common ingredient used is retinol or Vitamin A, which is the most frequently used ingredient in anti-aging creams. However, tretinoin (another form of Vitamin A) is the most effective to make the skin firm on the neck and face.
Overuse of retinol will reduce the skin’s important barrier and protective system. We recommend that you don’t use Vit A based products for extended period of time.

Another more effective and longer lasting approach is by nourishing the skin with nutrients that empower its natural functions. A cocktail of Amino Acids or Peptides (a small chain of amino acids) when combined with the right trace minerals will have a stimulative effect on the Fibroblast which will in turn produce more Collagen and Elastin.

Sunscreen

You may have read it in every skincare article that a skincare routine should always incorporate the application of sunscreen in the morning. It is said that the sun is responsible for signs of visible aging where experts label it as photoaging. The harmful UV rays of the sun causes uneven skin tone and breaks down collagen, resulting in a thinner skin and wrinkles. 

This is why sunscreens are advised to use everyday. A daily application with a broad-spectrum sunscreen can help fade dark spots, improve skin texture, and flatten out wrinkles. 

Skin Firming Treatments

Traditionally, skin tightening or firming requires surgery. However, there are also treatments nowadays that are non-invasive and do not require such an aggressive approach. Here are some skin firming procedures available in Australia.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are usually injectables and provide a non-invasive way to tighten the skin. It is typically used to replace lost volume in the face. Typical areas of the face include cheeks, brow, jawline, and chin to lift and improve skin firmness. There are various fillers available in Australian dermatologist clinics and certain beauty salons, and they are only administered in clinics by licensed professionals. 

Radio Frequency Treatments

Radiofrequency treatments use heat to encourage the skin to produce more collagen. According to an expert, most radiofrequency therapies are non-invasive and require minimal to no downtime. Benefits of radiofrequency treatments include tissue retraction, new collagen formation, and improved blood circulation. RF machines typically transmit currents to the skin’s underlying tissues. Other heat-based treatments are ultrasound and infrared.

Laser Skin Firming Treatments

These treatments create a controlled superficial burn to the skin, which help to promote collagen production. Laser treatments heal quickly, but visible signs of it are apparent after the treatment. Typically, laser treatments are used for moderate lines and wrinkles and promote skin tone, texture, and tightness. However, these don’t work on intense lines. Some of the laser treatments available in Australia include continuous and ablative lasers. 

VITAL PLUS

Vital Plus aims to empower its client’s professional growth and success through products and education that cultivate the skin’s natural functions for longterm health. We seek effective skincare to activate holistic skin health and bring the education and awareness to continue one’s professional journey. 

It is only inspired, nurtured, self-determined beauty professionals who achieve greatness. Check our website to know more about us. 

FAQs:

Q: What is a skin firming treatment?

A: A skin firming treatment is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the elasticity and firmness of the skin. It aims to reduce sagging and tighten loose skin, typically caused by factors like aging, weight loss, or pregnancy. Various non-invasive and minimally invasive techniques are used to stimulate collagen production, promoting a more youthful and toned appearance.

Q: Who is a suitable candidate for a skin firming treatment?

A: Ideal candidates for skin firming treatments are individuals who have mild to moderate skin laxity and desire tighter, more toned skin. Candidates should be in good overall health, with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. A consultation with a qualified dermatologist or aesthetician will help determine the best treatment plan based on individual needs and skin condition.

Q: What are the common skin firming treatment options available?

A: Several skin firming treatment options are available, ranging from non-invasive to minimally invasive procedures. Some of the popular choices include:

• Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: Utilizing RF energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
• Ultrasound Therapy: Using focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten loose skin.
• Laser Skin Tightening: Employing laser technology to promote collagen synthesis and enhance skin elasticity.
• Microneedling: Creating tiny micro-injuries to trigger collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
• Dermal Fillers: Injecting hyaluronic acid or other substances to plump and firm the skin.

Q: Are skin firming treatments painful?

A: Most skin firming treatments are well-tolerated and involve minimal discomfort. Non-invasive procedures like radiofrequency and ultrasound therapy typically cause little to no pain, with only a slight warming sensation during treatment. Minimally invasive techniques like microneedling might cause mild discomfort, but topical numbing creams can be applied to alleviate any potential pain. Your provider will ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Q: What can I expect after a skin firming treatment?

A: The recovery and results of skin firming treatments can vary depending on the type of procedure performed. Non-invasive treatments usually require little to no downtime, allowing individuals to resume regular activities immediately. Minimally invasive treatments may involve some redness or swelling, but these effects typically subside within a few days.

The results of skin firming treatments are not instantaneous and may take a few weeks to months to fully manifest as collagen production increases and skin rejuvenation occurs. Regular maintenance sessions may be necessary to sustain the results over time.

As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by your healthcare professional to optimize results and minimize potential side effects.