Although we know the effects of the passage of time on our skin is inevitable, it doesn’t mean that we can’t take steps to try and improve the firmness of our skin as time goes by.

Of course, by not smoking, remaining hydrated, avoiding too much alcohol, eating a healthy balanced diet and following a regular skincare routine whether it’s a simple 3 step session or a 10-step marathon we’re investing in our skin for the long term.

But what about more specialised products and targeted treatments?

Well, serums have come a long way. Ingredients like AHAs and retinol have been able to stimulate the production of collagen certainly on the skins surface and even the uppermost layers for a while – but they didn’t really penetrate deep down.

Now, ingredients such as peptides and exosomes – small molecules that carry things like bioactive proteins and nucleic acids – which may be used in regenerative microneedling for example, are coming to the fore as they can reach the deeper layers of the skin. The cells they reach can then produce more collagen and elastin – a bit like younger cells, which in turn makes the skin firmer.

We know that collagen production declines with age and we also know that is why skin starts to sag as we get older. In fact, from our mid-20s it starts to decline by about 1% per year, and by around an additional 30% during menopause.

Taking a high-quality daily collagen supplement may help with the skin’s elasticity and collagen density.

Hopefully, we spend a lot of time laughing and smiling, and less time frowning, but either way, we contract and tense our facial muscles many times throughout the day. So, another tip is to try and specifically relax the facial muscles when we are aware of it to minimise tension – just rest them when you remember and even give them a gentle massage.

So, it might be worth considering the latest products or aesthetic treatments, giving collagen supplements a try, and actively relaxing and resting your face. It might just help keep skin looking firmer for longer.

A professional aesthetic practitioner would be happy to advise you on the most effective treatment for your skin condition. That way you get skill, care, and peace of mind that they are applying the right dedicated course of treatment tailored to you.