How to Improve Sagging Skin on the Face

Sagging skin is an inevitable part of the aging process. As we age, skin gradually loses its elasticity, resulting in wrinkles and sagging. There are various things we can do to prevent skin's loss of elasticity, such as protecting skin against sun damage. If you already have sagging skin, you can improve it in a variety of ways. Some treatment methods are simple and non-invasive; others involve major surgery.

Use Retin A cream on your face. Retin A encourages skin cell regeneration so new skin cells are more quickly produced to replace older, sagging cells. With regular use, Retin A can tighten up wrinkled skin, helping it to look younger and firmer. You need a doctor's prescription to obtain Retin A.

Massage the sagging areas twice daily for at least 2 minutes. Massage increases circulation, allowing blood and nutrients to more readily reach the area. As a result, the skin will be better nourished and firmer.

Wear sunscreen daily. The sun's rays are major causes of wrinkling and aged skin. Prevent further skin damage by protecting your face from the sun. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF rating that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. If you'll be outside for extended periods of time, wear a broad-rimmed hat for more complete protection.

Improve muscle tone in the face by chewing gum. The repetitive motion of gum-chewing helps exercise facial muscles. If your muscles are toned, sagging skin will be less noticeable.

Get dermatological injections. Various fillers such as Restalyne and collagen can be used to plump up sagging skin, making it looking firmer and younger. Since the results are temporary, you'll have to get injections every three to six months to maintain the results.

Try laser treatments. Laser light is used to burn away the top layers of skin, revealing younger, firmer skin below. Lasers also increase collagen production, helping your sagging skin look firmer and plumper.

Consider cosmetic surgery. Face lifts, partial face lifts, eye lifts and brow lifts can all eliminate sagging skin on your face. A plastic surgeon will make an incision and then pull the skin taut over the area, thereby removing sagging skin. As with any major surgery, there are risks involved.