Innovative methods for non-invasive skin tightening

Skin laxity, or sagging skin, is a common problem that occurs with age, weight loss, and environmental factors. As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin—two important proteins that maintain skin firmness and elasticity. Intrinsic, genetic, and extrinsic factors such as sun exposure, smoking, excessive stress, and poor diet can accelerate this process, resulting in loose, sagging skin.

As the demand for youthful, firm skin continues to rise, non-invasive skin tightening treatments have gained considerable popularity. Their goal? To combat these effects by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin and improving skin texture. Today, several innovative technologies and techniques are available, each utilizing different mechanisms to achieve just that! Let’s explore some of the most advanced non-invasive approaches to skin tightening.

Radiofrequency (RF) therapy

Mechanism: Radiofrequency therapy is one of the most popular methods, using energy waves to heat the deep layers of the skin (dermis). This heat stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in firmer, tighter skin over time.
Popular devices: Thermage, Exilis, Pellevé , and Venus Freeze.
Benefits:

• Suitable for various body areas, including face, neck, arms and abdomen.
• Minimal discomfort and no downtime make it a convenient option for busy people.
• Gradual and natural-looking results.
• No downtime.

Procedure: During an RF therapy session, a handheld device delivers RF energy to the target area. Patients may experience a warming sensation, but the procedure is generally comfortable. Multiple sessions are often recommended for optimal results, with improvements continuing over several months as new collagen is formed.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Mechanism: PRP therapy , also known as a vampire facelift, involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, which is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma. This plasma, rich in growth factors, is then injected into targeted areas of the skin. The growth factors stimulate collagen production and promote tissue regeneration, resulting in improved skin texture and firmness.
Benefits:

• Since PRP uses the patient’s own blood, there is no risk of allergic reactions or infections.
• Patients can typically return to their daily activities shortly after the procedure.
• The results develop over several weeks as collagen production increases.
• No downtime.

Procedure: A small amount of blood, typically 10-20 ml, is drawn from the patient’s arm using a sterile needle and vial, similar to a routine blood draw. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma, which is then injected into the targeted skin areas. The process is quick and relatively painless, much like a normal blood draw.

Laser treatments

Mechanism: Laser lifting uses focused light energy to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Various types of lasers can be used, each targeting specific skin layers and conditions.
Popular devices include Fraxel , CO2 , Erbium, Nd:YAG, and PicoSure.

Advantages:

• Can address fine lines, acne scars, wrinkles and sagging skin.
• Stimulates collagen production for long-lasting results.
• Suitable for various skin types and body areas.
• Minimal downtime.

Procedure: During treatment, the laser device is moved across the treatment area, delivering controlled energy into the deeper layers of the skin. Patients may experience mild redness or swelling after treatment, which typically subsides within a few hours to a day. Multiple sessions are often required to achieve the desired results.

Microneedling with radio frequency (RF)

Mechanism: This technique combines microneedling with RF energy to improve collagen production and tighten the skin. Microneedles create micro-injuries in the skin, while the RF energy heats the dermis, promoting healing and collagen formation.
Popular devices: Morpheus8™ , Profound RF, and Infini RF.
Benefits:

• Improves skin texture, firmness, and elasticity.
• Can treat scars, stretch marks and fine lines.
• Minimal downtime with effective results.
• Minimal downtime.

Procedure: A device with fine needles creates tiny punctures in the skin, and RF energy is delivered through these needles into the deeper layers. Patients may experience redness and mild swelling for a few days after treatment. Results typically improve over several weeks as new collagen is formed.

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

Mechanism: HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to target the deeper layers of the skin and the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.
Popular devices: Ultraformer III™ , Sofwave™, Ulthera™ , and Doublo-S.
Benefits:

• Non-invasive and without downtime.
• Provides lifting and firming effects.
• Suitable for face, neck and other body areas.
• No downtime.

Procedure: The device delivers focused ultrasound energy at specific depths, bypassing the skin’s surface. Patients may experience mild discomfort or tingling, but anesthesia is usually not required. Results develop over several months as new collagen is formed, with full effects visible after approximately six months.

Bio-Nutri Lift-NCTF®

Mechanism: The Bio Nutri Lift NCTF® treatment combines the benefits of two potent products: Fillmed Art Filler and NCTF® 135HA. The Art Filler is a lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel that smooths superficial wrinkles and provides an immediate lifting effect. NCTF® 135HA, on the other hand, is a polyrevitalizing solution containing over 50 essential nutrients, including vitamins, amino acids, minerals, coenzymes, nucleic acids, and antioxidants. Together, these components stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in improved skin texture, hydration, and firmness.
Popular devices: Fillmed Art Filler and NCTF® 135HA.
Benefits:

• Provides long-lasting hydration to the skin, improving its overall health and appearance.
• Provides an immediate improvement in skin firmness and texture.
• Provides the skin with essential nutrients for rejuvenation and repair.
• Improves skin quality without adding unnecessary volume.
• Effective for tightening the skin around the eyes and neck, hands and upper arms.
• No downtime.

Procedure: Using fine needles or a cannula, the practitioner injects microinjections of the Art Filler and NCTF® 135HA into the dermis layer of the skin. The injection technique involves creating a series of tiny punctures that allow the active ingredients to penetrate deeply.

Plasma therapy

Mechanism: Plasma fibroblast therapy uses a plasma pen to create tiny, controlled injuries on the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
Popular devices: Plexr and Plasma Pen.
Benefits:

• Non-surgical and with minimal downtime.
• Effective for tightening the skin around the eyes, mouth and neck.
• Long-lasting results.
• Minimal downtime.

Procedure: The plasma pen generates tiny plasma arcs that cause micro-injuries, stimulating the skin’s natural healing response. Patients may experience redness and swelling, which typically subsides within a week. Results continue to improve over several months as new collagen is produced.

LED light therapy

Mechanism: LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular activity, promoting collagen production and skin tightening.
Popular devices: Omnilux and LightStim.
Benefits:

• Non-invasive and without downtime.
• Can be combined with other treatments to improve results.
• Suitable for all skin types.
• No downtime.

Procedure: The device emits specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin and stimulate collagen production. Patients may experience a gentle warming sensation during the treatment. Several sessions are often required to achieve optimal results.

Carboxytherapy

Mechanism: Carboxytherapy involves injecting carbon dioxide gas into the skin, which improves blood circulation, stimulates collagen production, and promotes skin tightening. Popular
devices: Venusian.
Benefits:

• Non-surgical and with minimal downtime.
• Effective for treating dark circles under the eyes, stretch marks and cellulite.
• Improves the elasticity and texture of the skin.
• No downtime.

Procedure: During the treatment, small amounts of carbon dioxide gas are injected directly under the skin’s surface. This process increases blood circulation and collagen production, resulting in firmer, more youthful skin.

Oxygen therapy

Mechanism: Oxygen therapy delivers pure oxygen and essential nutrients to the skin, promoting collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
Popular devices: OxyXtra Med.
Benefits:

• Provides deep hydration and revitalization.
• Improves skin tone and texture.
• Suitable for all skin types.
• No downtime.

Procedure: During the treatment, a device is used to apply a stream of high-pressure oxygen, enriched with vitamins and nutrients, to the skin. This promotes collagen production and results in a radiant, youthful complexion.

Shock wave therapy

Mechanism: Shockwave therapy uses acoustic waves to stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness.
Popular devices: Storz Medical®.
Benefits:

• Non-invasive and with minimal downtime.
• Effective for reducing cellulite and improving skin texture.
• Promotes collagen production for long-lasting results.
• No downtime.

Procedure: During the treatment, acoustic waves are applied to the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving blood circulation. This results in firmer, smoother skin with improved elasticity.

Chemical peels

Mechanism: Chemical peels use a chemical solution to exfoliate and remove damaged outer layers of skin, promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
Popular types: Glycolic acid peel, salicylic acid peel, TCA peel, Jessner’s peel, phenol peel, and more.
Benefits:

• Improves skin texture and skin tone.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.
• Can address hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
• No to limited downtime, depending on the type of peel. 

Procedure: The chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new skin underneath is usually smoother and less wrinkled. Depending on the strength of the peel, some healing time may be required.

Mesotherapy

Mechanism: Mesotherapy involves injecting a cocktail of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other beneficial ingredients into the mesodermis (middle layer of skin) to rejuvenate and tighten the skin.
Benefits:

• Hydrates and nourishes the skin.
• Improves skin firmness and elasticity.
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• No downtime.

Procedure: A series of microinjections delivers the mesotherapy cocktail directly into the skin. The procedure is relatively quick, and patients can typically resume their normal activities shortly afterward.

Exosome therapy

Mechanism: Exosomes are tiny vesicles that play a key role in cell communication and regeneration. They can be derived from human, animal, or plant sources, but at InGold Aesthetics, we use only vegan exosomes to ensure the highest ethical standards. These exosomes deliver growth factors and other beneficial molecules to the skin, promoting collagen production and overall skin rejuvenation.
Benefits:

• Improves skin regeneration and repair.
• Improves skin texture and skin tone.
• Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
• No downtime.

Procedure: The exosomes are typically introduced into the skin via microneedling or injection to ensure deep penetration and maximum effectiveness. Results may become visible in the weeks following treatment as the skin regenerates.

Thread lifting

Mechanism: Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure in which absorbable threads are inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging skin. These threads also stimulate collagen production, leading to long-term skin tightening.
Popular threads: PDO , PCL , PLL threads, or a combination thereof. Benefits:

• Immediate lifting and firming effects.
• Minimally invasive with a short recovery time.
• Stimulates natural collagen production.
• Minimal to limited downtime

Procedure: During a thread lift, the doctor inserts fine, absorbable threads under the skin, providing immediate lifting effects. Over time, these threads stimulate collagen production, leading to further improvements in skin firmness. Patients may experience mild swelling or bruising, which usually subsides within a few days.

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic treatments, non-invasive skin tightening is a true game-changer. These advanced procedures, harnessing the power of radiofrequency, ultrasound, lasers, and more, offer effective solutions for combating sagging skin without the drawbacks of surgery.

At InGold Aesthetics Clinics, we are proud to be a center of excellence for non-invasive skin tightening treatments. Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to helping you find the right treatment for your individual needs. Consultation with a qualified professional is key to tailoring the best treatment plan to your unique requirements. Contact our clinic today and experience the future of skincare by enjoying a youthful, firm complexion that always makes you look your best with minimal disruption to your daily life. So why wait? Experience the joy of youthful, radiant skin with Morpheus8™! Contact us today to schedule a consultation or visit our clinics in Bern and Zug to take the first step towards a more youthful appearance.