As you advance in age, your skin that used to be tight and smooth may become loose, saggy and wrinkled. Visible signs of aging are caused by a decrease in the body's production of collagen, a material that gives skin its elasticity. As you get older, your body creates less collagen naturally. Although it's impossible to turn back the clock completely, you may take steps now to ensure good-looking skin later.
Step 1
Quit smoking, and if you don't smoke, don't start. People who smoke at least 10 cigarettes per day for 10 years are more likely to have wrinkled, leathery skin compared to nonsmokers, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 2
Stay out of the sun when possible, and use sunscreen when you are outside. Sun exposure is a major cause of loose, leathery skin. Aim for an SPF of at least 15 on all parts of your skin that will be exposed to the sun.
Step 3
Apply lotions and moisturizers that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, alpha-hydroxy acids or niacinamide. These ingredients, among others, stimulate collagen production and help promote smooth, firm skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 4
See your doctor for advice on tightening up saggy skin if you have recently lost a lot of weight. Dramatic weight loss may sometimes leave excess skin folds behind, and you may need a cosmetic procedure, such as abdominal wall surgery, to correct this problem.
Step 5
Exercise regularly. Physical activity will tone both your muscles and your skin, which may help prevent general skin aging as well as tighten up excess skin from weight loss.
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