In the chapter on microplastic surgery, I discussed the causes and treatments of sagging. At that time, I mentioned that there are different skincare lotions and essences that claim to tighten the skin and even achieve a “three-dimensional V-shaped face”! What ingredients are responsible for this effect?
As we all know, the human body’s collagen protein decreases with age, causing wrinkles and sagging skin. Therefore, many people believe that using skincare products containing collagen can replenish lost collagen, allowing the skin to regain its youthfulness, firmness, and elasticity. In fact, there is a protective membrane (basement membrane) in the skin’s deeper layers that prevents harmful substances from invading. This protective membrane can block large molecules (greater than 500 daltons) from entering, and collagen is significantly larger than the limit that can enter the dermis, so it cannot penetrate. Many people have used collagen face masks and may ask, “After using a collagen face mask, my skin really feels tighter. Did this replenish my skin’s collagen?” In reality, when the collagen dries up, it will naturally contract, causing a tightening sensation. This is a very short-lived effect that will disappear after one day. However, this does not mean that collagen face masks are not effective. Collagen that remains in the epidermis can retain moisture, reduce water loss, and make the skin smooth and moisturized. Of course, the price is more expensive than regular moisturizing masks!
As for other firming essences, each one claims to have unique ingredients that can firm the skin. I have seen these types of products, and their ingredients mainly include extract of the Japanese umbrella pine, plant stem cells, peptides, and even honey. Manufacturers have developed them into firming essences to attract consumer attention. In fact, skin sagging is caused by deep tissue, as discussed earlier. Can products penetrate deep into the skin layer and generate a large amount of collagen, allowing muscles to regain their vitality and depressed areas to be reborn? It is probably difficult to achieve this with just these products.
In addition to medical treatment, there are methods to slow down the loss of collagen. This is no big secret, just reduce exposure to UV rays, avoid smoking, and moisturize more. These methods are more cost-effective than buying essences!