Amara Iwuoha
Have you started to notice your once-firm skin is showing signs of looseness . Skin sagging is a natural part of ageing, but it can also be accelerated by stress, poor lifestyle habits, sun exposure, and a lack of skincare discipline. The good news? You can reverse these effects or even delay it by embracing a few powerful daily habits. Here are five things to start doing right now if you want your skin to stay lifted, firm, and youthful always.
Sunscreen Is A Must Have
Sun damage is the main cause of premature skin sagging. UV rays break down collagen and elastin – two structural proteins that keep your skin firm and tight. Make sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher a part of your everyday skincare ritual, even when you’re indoors. Apply every two hours if you’re outdoors. See it as a protective measure for your youth. Don’t forget your neck, ears, and jawline, which are areas sagging often begins.
Avoid Sugar
Avoid Sugar
Sugar wreaks havoc on your skin. When there is excess sugar in your bloodstream, it binds to proteins like collagen and elastin, weakening them and causing your skin to sag. Avoid processed sweets and do more of skin nourishing alternatives like berries, nuts, and dark chocolate (in moderation). Staying hydrated and fuelling your body with antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies can help fight skin sagging from within.
Sleep Is Essential
Did you know your sleeping position could be ageing your face? Sleeping on your side or stomach adds pressure on your facial skin, leading to sleep wrinkles and sagging over time, especially on your cheeks and jawline. Try to sleep on your back and invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and support skin hydration. Also, quality sleep is essential for skin regeneration. Normalise having at least 7–8 hours of uninterrupted rest every night and watch your skin refresh.
Fortify Your Skin Barrier
A strong skin barrier keeps your face firm, bouncy, and plump. Look for ingredients like retinol, peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to rebuild collagen and lock in moisture. Retinol (vitamin A) increases cell turnover, while peptides signal your skin to produce more collagen. Ceramides fortify your barrier, and hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps. Don’t expect overnight miracles. Apply these actives in your nighttime routine and follow up with sunscreen in the morning. You can also use facial firming masks once or twice a week for a quick lifting effect.
Facial Massage
Do you know a non-invasive way to prevent skin sagging is by massaging. Facial massage isn’t just luxury, it is powerful. It stimulates blood circulation, boosting collagen production, reduces puffiness, and improving lymphatic drainage. Just 5 to 10 minutes of daily or alternate-day massage using upward strokes can help tone facial muscles and firm the skin over time. Use your fingertips or a jade roller with a facial oil or moisturiser to avoid friction and focus on areas prone to sagging like the jawline, cheeks, and under the eyes. Being consistent will cause a noticeable difference in radiance and skin texture.
