The process of ageing causes the skin to lose elasticity naturally. As a result, the skin becomes saggy and fine lines and wrinkles start to appear. Fortunately, there are several non-invasive skin tightening procedures that can help to slow down this process and reverse the damage.

Let's explore the top five most popular and effective techniques available today, including:

• PDO threads,
• Thread lifts,
• High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU),
• RF microneedling, and
• Collagen stimulating treatment

1 & 2. PDO threads and thread lifts

PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are absorbable sutures that are inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissue. These threads stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin firmness over time. The procedure is minimally invasive and often referred to as a "thread lift".

Thread lifts are best for sagging skin around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. The procedure has an immediate lifting effect and improves skin texture over time. Downtime is minimal, with some potential swelling and bruising.

Learn more about PDO threads. Learn more about thread lifts.

3. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

HIFU uses ultrasound energy to target deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the tissue. This non-invasive procedure can help lift the skin on the face and neck without surgery.

HIFU works best on mildly to moderately saggy skin, especially in the face and neck area. The improvement is gradual and most visible in skin tightness. There is no downtime but mild redness may occur.

Learn more about HIFU.

4. RF microneedling

RF microneedling combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin. This process stimulates collagen and elastin production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin.

RF microneedling can improve wrinkles, skin texture, and moderate sagging, resulting in enhanced skin tone and tighter pores. The downtime is minimal with mild redness and swelling for one to three days.

Learn more about RF microneedling.

5. Collagen stimulating treatment

Collagen stimulating treatment stimulates collagen production. It's primarily used for volume restoration but also helps tighten and firm the skin over time. Unlike volume replacement treatments, which add immediate volume, collagen stimulating treatment gradually improves skin laxity as it encourages the body to produce more collagen.

Collagen stimulating treatment works best for the loss of facial volume and moderate sagging. The results look natural and improve further in the months following the treatment. The downtime is minimal.

Learn more about collagen stimulating treatment.

How to choose the right treatment

The choice should be based on your individual needs, skin type, and the severity of sagging, following the advice of a medical professional. For example, PDO threads or a thread lift might be ideal for an immediate lifting effect. On the other hand, HIFU, RF microneedling, or collagen stimulating treatment could be better options for gradual improvement. 

During your consultation, our dermal clinicians can discuss and evaluate your concerns and provide advice on various treatments that might be right for you.

Please note: The treatments mentioned above are available at select locations only.

References:
Tong, L. X., & Rieder, E. A. (2019). Thread-lifts: a double-edged suture? A comprehensive review of the literature. Dermatologic Surgery, 45(7), 931-940.
Ter Haar, G. (2016). HIFU tissue ablation: concept and devices. Therapeutic ultrasound, 3-20.
Weiner, S. F. (2019). Radiofrequency microneedling: overview of technology, advantages, differences in devices, studies, and indications. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics, 27(3), 291-303.
de Lima Menezes, E. D. G., de Figueiredo Costa, A. C., de Sousa Neto, J. B., Maques, J. A., & Santos, M. J. (2022). EFFECTS OF SCULPTRA®(INJECTABLE POLY-L-LACTIC ACID) FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION:: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW. Health and Society, 2(04), 226-254.