Skin Laxity
Best Treatments for Skin Laxity to Improve Skin Health and Appearance in Kelowna
Skin laxity refers to a loss of firmness, elasticity and structural support that causes the skin to appear looser or less defined. While it is a natural part of ageing, factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, weight fluctuations and lifestyle can accelerate the process. At Interior Dermatology Centre in Kelowna, BC, we offer advanced non-surgical treatments - including Sofwave™, radiofrequency microneedling and laser resurfacing - to help improve skin firmness, texture and overall appearance.
Appropriate treatments depend on the degree and location of laxity, skin quality, associated concerns, tolerance for downtime and desired outcome. Treatments may sometimes be combined as part of Dr. Burrows’ treatment plan.
What to Expect with Skin Laxity
Skin laxity can develop gradually, often becoming more noticeable as the skin produces less collagen and elastin. These proteins are responsible for much of the skin's strength, structure and elasticity. As their production declines, the skin may lose some of its ability to remain firm and resilient.
What Causes Skin Laxity?
Ageing is one of the most common causes of skin laxity. As we get older, collagen and elastin production naturally decreases, while the skin's ability to retain moisture and repair itself can also change. However, several other factors can contribute to or accelerate the development of loose or sagging skin, including:
Sun exposure: UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin and can accelerate visible skin ageing.
Natural ageing: Gradual changes in collagen, elastin and other supportive structures can reduce skin firmness.
Hormonal changes: Changes in hormones, including those associated with menopause, can affect collagen production and skin thickness.
Weight fluctuations: Significant weight loss or repeated changes in weight can stretch the skin and affect its ability to retract.
Genetics: Some people naturally have skin that is more prone to laxity or develops visible signs of ageing earlier.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, poor nutrition, inadequate sleep and other environmental factors may contribute to premature skin ageing.
Common Signs of Skin Laxity
Skin laxity can affect different areas, such as the brows, lower face, jawline, under the chin, neck, upper arms, abdomen and above the knees and may vary significantly from person to person.
Common signs include:
Looser or less firm-looking skin
Sagging around the cheeks, jawline or neck
Less definition along the jawline
Fine lines and wrinkles
Crepey or thinning skin texture
Loss of youthful-looking facial contours
Skin that appears less smooth or resilient
Cosmetic Solutions at IDC
Our board-certified dermatologists can design the perfect treatment plan to help you combat the cosmetic effects of skin laxity. If you’re looking for firmer skin and complete confidence, we’re here to help.
Non-surgical treatments can improve mild to moderate laxity and skin quality, but they do not produce the same degree of lifting or tissue repositioning as surgery. Patients with more advanced laxity may require a surgical consultation to achieve their desired result.
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Sofwave uses ultrasound energy at a controlled depth within the mid-dermis to stimulate new collagen and elastin without surgery, needles or significant downtime.
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Best for patients who want improved firmness as well as improvements in texture, pores, fine lines, scars or crepey skin. RF Microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen remodelling.
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Laser resurfacing is advised for patients experiencing mild skin laxity, particularly when laxity occurs alongside wrinkles, sun damage, uneven texture or other visible signs of skin aging.
Our Latest Journal Entries
Best Treatments for Skin Laxity
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Sofwave™
Sofwave uses ultrasound energy at a controlled depth within the mid-dermis to stimulate new collagen and elastin without surgery, needles or significant downtime.
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Radiofrequency Microneedling
RF Microneedling is for patients who want improved firmness as well as improvements in texture, pores, fine lines, scars or crepey skin. It combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen remodelling.
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Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing works by removing the outermost layer of your skin. It’s best for patients with mild skin laxity, particularly when laxity occurs alongside wrinkles, sun damage, uneven texture or other visible signs of skin aging.
Ready for your Treatment? We found your Doctor. Reserve today with our Resident Certified Dermatologist
Meet Dr. Dianne Burrows, MD, FRCPC
Dr. Dianne Burrows is a board-certified dermatologist and a respected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Continuously enhancing her expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Burrows engages in ongoing education and clinical trial work, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning in dermatology and helping her patients. Dr. Burrows founded and currently leads the Interior Dermatology Centre, providing patients with medical and cosmetic care.