Frequently asked questions
Do skin-tightening creams really work?
According to Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Boca Raton, skin-tightening creams do work, but it’s important to set realistic expectations. “Moisturizers can temporarily make skin look plumper and smoother by increasing hydration, while ingredients such as retinoids can improve collagen production and skin texture over time,” she says. These creams cannot replicate the results of procedures that target deeper tissue laxity, however. Dr. Nazarian agrees, and notes that though these creams slow the pace at which sagging occurs, dramatic improvements can only be done with lasers and devices found in your dermatologist's office.
What ingredients should you look for in a skin-tightening cream?
When shopping for a skin tightening cream, Dr. Nazarian says to look out for a few ingredients.
- Retinol: Which has the ability to stimulate collagen production and cellular turnover, supporting skin renewal—additionally, retinol protects the fibers (of collagen and elastin) you have now and preserves them for longer.
- Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, it is a great multi-tasking ingredient to promote production of collagen and elastin, and also decrease the pace at which they are broken down. “Consistent use of niacinamide can improve elasticity, keep pores tight, and improve hydration. It's one of my favorite powerhouse ingredients that often flies under the radar,” says Dr. Nazarian.
- Caffeine: Immediately constricts superficial blood vessels for a quick tightening appearance. The effects are immediate but temporary.
What do dermatologists generally recommend for sagging skin?
According to the dermatologists, treatment depends on the degree of skin laxity and what your goals are. “For mild changes, I recommend medical-grade skin care, including retinoids and daily sunscreen, to support collagen and maintain skin quality,” says Dr. Queller. For more noticeable laxity, she recommends radiofrequency treatments such as ATTIVA and XERF, which stimulate collagen remodeling to improve skin firmness over time. “Patients with significant excess skin may ultimately need surgery for the most dramatic results. The key is matching the treatment to the degree of laxity rather than expecting a cream to do what it cannot,” she says.
How we evaluated the best skin-tightening creams
We evaluated the best skin-tightening creams based on their ingredients, format, textures, and efficacy. The best ones featured skin-perfecting ingredients like retinol, ceramides, glycerin, niacinamide, peptides, collagen and caffeine to smooth and firm skin. The skin tightening moisturizers we landed on had bouncy, whipped textures that left skin feeling supple and smooth. Finally, every cream on this list did what it says it does and helped decrease the appearance of lines and texture for a firmer, more resilient skin finish.
Meet the experts
- Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Boca Raton