With each passing year, it’s normal to notice skin elasticity decreasing. Key areas for loose skin to form include the upper arms, knees, stomach and thighs. Loose skin can be particularly pronounced following the birth of a child or extensive weight loss. There are several common factors that can cause our skin to sag. While some of the causes are unavoidable, like ageing, we can utilise some of the latest technological advances in treatments that are available to tighten and improve the appearance of sagging or loose skin.
Skin & Elasticity
Our skin is an intriguing organ. As the largest organ of the body, it protects us from the elements, regulates our body temperature and allows us to sense touch. The skin is comprised of three main layers;
- Epidermis – this is the outer layer of the skin that serves as a barrier and give us our skin tone.
- Dermis – under the epidermis, the dermis contains connective tissue, hair follicles and sweat glands.
- Hypodermis – the deepest layer of the skin, the hypodermis is made up of connective tissues and fats.
Our skin maintains its young, supple appearance thanks to elastin and collagen. If the skin is pushed past the point of elasticity as it often is with pregnancy or other weight gain, the connecting fibres in the dermis are damaged and collagen and elastin is compromised.
What causes loose skin?
Ageing
Of course, one of the most common causes for sagging skin is simply ageing. As we age, our skin begins to lose its natural elastin and collagen. Healthy collagen development is one of the primary contributors to plump, youthful skin, so as this production slows down with age, connective tissue becomes weaker and skin looks more tired and begins to sag. External factors like smoking can also speed up the ageing process as the chemicals found in cigarettes break down collagen and elastin.
Pregnancy
Often women will find that following pregnancy, despite working hard to return to a pre-baby size, extra or loose skin will remain, particularly on the stomach. Because your stomach has grown quickly to accommodate your growing baby, the dermis can be damaged and not enough elastin may be produced, which will result in the skin losing its ability to shrink back down again.
Weight Loss
After putting in months of effort in order to lose those kilos, the last thing anyone wants to be left with is significant loose skin. Unfortunately, it is very common in those who have lost a substantial amount of weight and can affect the stomach, legs, arms, back and buttocks as a result of the skin being over stretched and damaged. Generally, the more substantial the weight loss, the more prominent the loose skin is. This can reduce quality of life and make those effected feel uncomfortable.
Treatment
The VelaShape III is a non-invasive, established treatment that can improve the skins firmness and texture, reduce the appearance of cellulite and reduce circumference through body contouring. This FDA approved treatment uses a combination of massage, suction and bi-polar radio frequency to stimulate the skin and encourage collagen and elastin production, resulting in tighter, firmer skin. Treatments last approximately 1 hour with most people finding it comfortable, comparing the sensation to a firm massage with heat applied. There is no downtime for this treatment and it can be completed during your lunchbreak, unlike the invasive surgical alternatives like a tummy tuck which carries risks and a long recovery time. Most patients will require 4 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart.
Below you can see a before and after example of VelaShape III skin tightening treatment. Please note that as each person is an individual, results will vary from patient to patient.
Next Steps
If you have areas of loose or sagging skin that you would like to tighten, come and see the skin tightening experts at Feel Good Laser & Skin Clinic Richmond for a free consultation. During your consultation your skin condition will be assessed and we will explain the treatment and cost to you. You can click on the button below to book a free consultation online now. Alternatively, you can call our experienced and friendly team on 1300 896 834.
Book Your Skin Tightening Analysis
For more information on skin tightening treatment at Feel Good Laser & Skin Clinic in Richmond, click below to download your free guide.
