Non-Surgical Skin Tightening?

In general, non-surgical skin tightening procedures work by using targeted energy to heat deeper layers of skin, which stimulates collagen and elastin production and gradually improves skin tone and texture. Some treatments also affect fibrous tissue to help smooth cellulite. There are numerous FDA cleared skin tightening treatments and technologies on the market, and each uses a unique mechanism to achieve the desired result.


As we age, production of collagen and elastin —two proteins that help our skin stay plump, firm and smooth—slows down, resulting in areas of lax, sagging skin on the face, neck and body. If you are bothered by skin laxity, non-surgical skin tightening can temporarily halt this process and restore a firmer, smoother, more youthful appearance with little to no downtime.

Benefits of non-surgical skin tightening

  • Tightens mild to moderately loose skin on the face, neck, or body without surgery or scars
  • Many treatments can provide a noticeable “lifting” effect
  • Little to no downtime is needed
  • Low risk when performed by a qualified provider
  • Treatments can be performed in-office, typically in 1 hour or less
  • Results can last up to 1 year


Non-surgical skin tightening is generally best suited for patients who are bothered by mild to moderate skin laxity and do not need the more dramatic lifting and skin removal possible with cosmetic surgery.

While there are very few serious side effects associated with non-surgical skin tightening, it may not be appropriate for patients who are pregnant, taking certain medications, or have certain medical conditions.

The best way to find out if non-surgical skin tightening is right for you is to consult with an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Start by finding surgeons in your area who are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). Diplomates of the ABCS have undergone extensive training in surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, and can help you choose the best option for your needs and goals.


Outlined below are the most common FDA cleared technologies.

Ultrasound skin tightening

Some skin tightening treatments use focused ultrasound energy, which heats skin at specific depths and locations to induce collagen production and help skin become firmer. Treatments are delivered via a handheld device, which transmits the ultrasound waves through the skin’s surface. Ultrasound technology has been used in medicine for many decades, and ultrasound skin tightening has an excellent safety profile. It is effective for older patients looking for a mini facelift without surgery and for younger patients who want to maintain their skin profile and prevent skin laxity as they age.

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments

Radiofrequency (RF) energy can also be used to heat the skin and trigger collagen production. In contrast to ultrasound, RF focuses on epidermal layers to achieve a firmer, smoother appearance. Like ultrasound treatments, RF treatments are effective for smoothing and tightening skin in older patients as well as postponing the need for a surgical lift in younger patients.

Combining IPL/RF treatments

A third class of skin tightening treatments combines intense pulsed light (IPL) with radiofrequency (RF) to heat deeper layers of skin and induce the natural healing response, which in turn triggers collagen production. The addition of IPL allows a provider to treat a large amount of skin and skin conditions, while the RF energy can be hyper-focused to treat deep layers of skin. Combination non-surgical skincare treatments tend to be extremely effective, as they are able to treat multiple concerns in one procedure.