10 Skin Care Products That Support Loose, Crepey Skin
Fine lines and wrinkles are a normal part of the aging process—these marks are symptoms of decades of smiles and the natural slowing of cellular turnover and collagen production. Ultimately, the latter can cause our skin to change in appearance overtime. "As we get older, our skin loses collagen and elastin and becomes increasingly more lax, which can lead to the appearance of loose skin with a crepe-paper-like texture," says Nkem Ugonabo, MD, MPH, board-certified dermatologist at Unionderm.
While the aging process cannot be stopped, Dr. Ugonabo notes that there are certain things dermatologists recommend to make loose, crepey skin less apparent. In addition to using products that protect you from UV radiation, moisturizing regularly to keep the skin hydrated, and applying certain ingredients that help stimulate collagen are effective ways to minimize crepeyness.
Why the Skin Takes on a Crepey Appearance
The reason skin becomes loose and crepey is twofold. According to Julie Russak, MD, FAAD, board certified dermatologist, fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and founder of the Russak Dermatology Clinic, both intrinsic and extrinsic factors play a role. Intrinsic factors are genetics and overall metabolic health of the body, while extrinsic factors are mostly due to damage caused from the sun.
"UV radiation and free radicals break down our collagen and elastin fibers, which provide structure and support to the skin," she says. Without these, there is nothing to hold the skin together. Other extrinsic factors include air pollution, hormonal changes, and internal and external stress. "Added to that equation, is the overall rule that we produce 1 percent less collagen every year after the age of 25," says Dr. Russak.
Can Products Really Help Loose Skin?
The good news is, Dr. Russak says there are products that can combat loose, crepey skin. "Maintenance with home care is crucial," she says. "You will always see the best results when combining in-office treatments a few times a year, while maintaining those results at home everyday with skin care." While certain products can help, Dr. Russak also stresses the importance of starting preventative measures earlier rather than later. "I always recommend that my patients start with good quality, medical-grade skin care products early on and focus on preventative pre-aging, instead of waiting until they see signs of aging like wrinkles and lines," she says.
Ingredients to Look For
When searching for products to help with these skin care concerns, be on the lookout for a few specific ingredients. Dr. Ugonabo says retinoids (or retinols) and peptides can help to stimulate your body to produce more collagen, which leads to firmer skin. Additionally, Dr. Russak suggests checking for products containing peptides and antioxidants—including but limited to vitamin C, matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors, hyaluronic acid, and hyaluronidase inhibitors.
The Best Products for Loose, Crepey Skin
- Revision Skincare Nectifirm
- Crépe Erase Advanced Body Repair Treatment
- Revision Skincare BodiFirm
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
- Isdin Sunisdin Daily Antioxidant Supplement
- Revision Skincare Revlox Line Relaxer
- Caudalie "Resveratrol Lift" Firming Cashmere Moisturizer
- Dior Capture Totale Firming & Wrinkle-Correcting Cream
- Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum
- Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Cashmere Moisturizer
- Crépe Erase Overnight Facial Plumping Treatment
Revision Skincare Nectifirm
Your neck will look instantly smoother with this dermatologist-recommended product that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. "Nectifirm uses the power of the skin's microbiome as well as eight peptides," Dr. Russak says. "It penetrates the skin and shrinks adipose tissue which has a firming effect on the skin."
Crépe Erase Advanced Body Repair Treatment
This two-step system works to smooth, hydrate, and firm skin with a blend of naturally-derived apple, dill, and sage extracts, all of which help support dwindling elastin production.
Revision Skincare BodiFirm
This body contouring lotion restores hydration and helps support the skin's moisture barrier. "BodiFirm contains iFirm Technology that is a blend of peptides, antioxidants, botanicals and a prebiotic that firms and lifts the skin, improves sagging and crepey skin, improves skin health and overall skin appearance," Dr. Russak says.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Dr. Russak's all time favorite vitamin C serum, this daytime elixir is a combination of 15 percent pure vitamin C, 1 percent vitamin E, and 0.5 percent ferulic acid. It's designed to protect against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to aging.
Isdin Sunisdin Daily Antioxidant Supplement
A once-a-day, antioxidant supplement designed to promote overall skin care health and combat aging, Dr. Russak says this product helps to protect the skin from UV damage and increase repair ability.
Revision Skincare Revlox Line Relaxer
Dr. Russak says this line relaxer is like botox in a bottle, as it uses eight peptides to help relax muscle fibers and promote skin tightness. The serum also improves the appearance of under-eye lines and wrinkles, as well as increases skin radiance and hydration.
Dior Capture Totale Firming & Wrinkle-Correcting Cream
Made with ceramides that help to support the skin's barrier, this luxe cream is lauded for its rich, effective formula, which addresses everything from fine lines and wrinkles to dullness and that papery look.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum
This best-selling serum brightens the complexion by reducing the appearance of dark spots, while simultaneously tightening the skin. Plus, it's packed with an antioxidant Dr. Russak swears by—vitamin C.
Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Cashmere Moisturizer
Where hyaluronic acid and resveratrol work in tandem to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, shea butter deeply hydrates and vegan collagen lends a plumped look. Together, all of these ingredients target the causes of crepey-looking skin, therefore reducing unwanted texture.
Crépe Erase Overnight Facial Plumping Treatment
Made with the brand's signature TruFirm Complex, this treatment works to hydrate, firm, and plump, effectively reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and thin skin.