Crepey Skin Treatments (and Causes) for Arms & Face

Crepey skin describes the appearance of thin, finely wrinkled skin similar to the appearance and texture of crepe paper. It is most common on areas such as the arms, face, neck and under eyes and becomes more noticeable with the natural ageing process. 

By understanding the root cause of crepey skin and using targeted treatments, crepey skin can be improved for a smoother, firmer and more youthful complexion. 

If you are looking to improve the appearance of crepey skin, speak with our aesthetic practitioners today and find out how you can boost elasticity of smoother skin.

How Is Crepey Skin Different From Wrinkles?

Although crepey skin and wrinkles are both common signs of ageing in the skin, they differ in how they look and their root causes.

Crepey skin is thin, fragile skin that appears loose and saggy. It is typically caused by the loss of collagen, elastin and hydration in the skin. Crepey skin is most common on the arms, neck and under the eyes where the skin becomes thinner over time. You can effectively treat crepey skin with treatments that boost collagen production and hydration in the skin. 

On the other hand, wrinkles are deeper, more defined folds in the skin most commonly found in expression areas around the eyes, mouth and forehead. Wrinkles are caused by repeated facial movements (expression lines), collagen loss and skin damage from UV rays and smoking. To reduce the appearance of wrinkles, treatments that limit muscle movement and add volume to wrinkled skin are most effective. 

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The Top Causes of Crepey Skin on the Arms & Face in Aging Adults

• Ageing and Collagen Loss – Collagen is a protein in the skin that supports firm, elastic skin. As we age, the amount of collagen in the skin is reduced, causing a crepey appearance.
• Sun Damage & UV Exposure – Damage from the sun can cause the breakdown of collagen in the skin, reducing its elasticity and creating crepey skin.
• Loss of Moisture & Hydration – With age, the skin retains less moisture which can help to ‘plump up’ its appearance. Reduced hydration can therefore cause saggy, crepey skin. 
• Weight Loss & Skin Laxity – After weight loss, patients can be left with excess skin folds that are more likely to sag due to reduced levels of collagen from ageing. This laxity can increase the crepe-like appearance of the skin. 
• Smoking & other environmental factors – The toxins in cigarette smoke can contribute to the breakdown of collagen in the skin, causing a crepey texture. 

How To Treat Crepey Skin on the Arms

There are several effective ways to improve the appearance of crepey skin on the arms:

Profhilo Injections

Profhilo is an injectable skin booster treatment that boosts the levels of collagen, elastin and hydration in the skin. Profhilo has many benefits, including helping to deeply moisturise the skin from within, while tightening its appearance for a more youthful and less crepey appearance. 

Surgical Arm Lift

A surgical arm lift (brachioplasty) is a cosmetic procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the arms, typically due to skin laxity caused by significant weight loss. The skin is then tightened for a smoother, more youthful appearance. This surgical treatment is best suited for patients with more significant amounts of crepey, lax skin. 

Supplements & Vitamins

Collagen supplements are purported to increase the amount of collagen in the body and therefore the skin, but the evidence is limited. They can, however, be used in conjunction with other treatments to bolster their effects.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments such as Fotona’s SMOOTH mode can help deliver controlled heating to the surface of the skin to stimulate collagen remodelling and neocollagenesis. This can help to boost the elasticity of the skin, reducing the appearance of crepey skin. 

Topical Treatments

Topical products such as moisturisers and creams that include hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides can help to boost the hydration of the skin. However, their effects are limited to the surface of the skin and won’t treat the root causes at a deeper level.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes to prevent damage to the skin, such as that caused by UV rays, pollution and smoking, can all help to reduce collagen depletion in the skin. As a result, patients can enjoy firmer, more youthful looking skin for longer.

How To Prevent Crepey Skin On Your Upper Arms, Lower Arms & Face

There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of developing crepey skin:

Sun Protection & SPF

Covering your skin and applying SPF regularly to prevent sun damage can reduce the risk of collagen in the skin being broken down. This helps to promote firmer, healthier skin. 

Hydration & Diet

Sticking to a healthy, collagen rich diet and maintaining your hydration can help to support skin health and normal amounts of collagen in the skin. 

Consistent Skin Care

Having a skincare routine that includes moisturisers that reinforce the hydration of the skin can help to promote a healthy, youthful appearance. 

Ready for Smoother, Firmer Skin? Schedule Your Consultation at the CREO Clinic