Q. You can’t really lift “saggy” skin with a topical cream, can you?
Dr. Linda Miles L. Ac., D.O.M. responds:
It’s a question I’ve heard all my professional life: “How can I firm and tighten my loose, sagging skin?” While plastic surgery might be the first thing that comes to mind, the amount of money you’d spend, the long recovery time and the unnatural-looking results may seem rather unappealing. But the good news is: yes, you really can help visibly firm and tone sagging skin with a topical crème.
The key is to look for skincare products that contain scientifically proven, effective ingredients that have been shown to have a positive effect on sagging skin. One exciting ingredient that has received a lot of attention for doing just that, and one you should look for when searching for skin-firming products, is DMAE. DMAE is naturally found in fish, such as salmon, and it may also exist in the human brain in very small amounts. It’s a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter is responsible for the cell communication required for many cognitive functions.
DMAE has become very popular in the media (you may have seen it featured on Dr. Oz for its ability to help “stop the signs of aging”). Research has shown that DMAE can improve skin tone and increase tensile strength of the skin, suggesting that the topical application of DMAE to skin and reduces facial sag. Another study using DMAE reported similar improvement in skin firmness and added that DMAE reduced the appearance of lines and wrinkles. DMAE has also demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which might help with the aging process.
derma e ® has taken this exceptional ingredient and created a full line of products including a cleanser, toner, crème and serum. DMAE is blended with antioxidants alpha lipoic acid and C-Ester, as well as other vitamins and botanicals, to help visibly firm, tighten and tone skin for a vibrant, younger-looking complexion.
Additionally, along with a good DMAE skin-firming facial routine, anti-aging acupuncture or regular facial exercises such as “face yoga” can help sagging skin on the face, neck and jaw line. There are several different techniques you can try, some even as simple as smiling, filling cheeks with air or pretending as if you are chewing, that can promote firm, tone skin.
Remember, products are a great start to help firm sagging skin but it also takes dedication through an overall healthful approach in order to achieve a healthy, younger-looking complexion.
Please note: If you do decide to try skincare products with DMAE, as with all new skincare products, I recommend that you do a patch test for sensitivity before starting regular use of any product. You should apply a small amount of product beneath the ear or below the jaw line, and wait at least 24 hours. If you have a reaction, discontinue use, as this product is not for you.
Dr. Linda Miles L. Ac., D.O.M., is Vice President of derma e ® Natural Bodycare. Read beauty q & a with derma e for great tips on natural beauty and skincare.