Overview
Skin laxity occurs when the skin loses its firmness and elasticity, leading to a softer, looser or more sagging appearance. This is primarily due to a reduction in collagen and elastin, the proteins that provide structure and resilience within the skin.
As these structural components decline over time, the skin becomes less able to hold its shape and return to its original position, resulting in visible changes such as softening of the jawline, reduced cheek support or looser skin around the neck.
Because these changes occur at a deeper structural level, skin laxity requires a different approach from concerns that affect only the surface of the skin.
How we approach skin laxity
At Mirabel, skin laxity is approached by focusing on restoring support within the skin, rather than simply improving its surface appearance.
The aim is to:
• Stimulate collagen to improve firmness and resilience
• Support underlying structure where volume has reduced
• Improve skin tightness in a gradual, controlled way
• Maintain natural movement and facial expression
This often involves treatments that work at different depths within the skin, helping to strengthen and support its structure over time.
A considered, layered approach allows for subtle lifting and firming, without creating an over-treated or artificial appearance.
Alongside in-clinic treatments, a consistent, well-chosen skincare routine plays a key role in improving the appearance of enlarged pores. Ingredients such as retinoids, niacinamide and gentle exfoliating acids can help regulate oil production, support collagen and keep pores clear, leading to smoother, more refined skin over time.
Find Out More
What you may notice
Skin laxity can present in a number of ways, often developing gradually:
• Softening or loss of definition along the jawline
• Skin that appears less firm or more relaxed
• Mild sagging in the cheeks or lower face
• Looser skin around the neck
• A feeling that facial features appear less lifted or supported
These changes are often more noticeable in certain lighting or from profile angles.
What is happening in the skin
Skin laxity develops as the structural framework of the skin weakens over time.
This can involve:
• Reduction in collagen, leading to less structural support
• Loss of elastin, reducing the skin’s ability to bounce back
• Changes in deeper tissue support
• Gradual thinning and weakening of the skin
As collagen and elastin decline, the skin becomes less able to maintain its shape, leading to a softer, less defined appearance.
What can influence skin laxity
Several factors can contribute to the development of skin laxity:
• Natural ageing and collagen decline
• Sun exposure, which accelerates structural breakdown
• Weight loss or fluctuations
• Genetics and skin type
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking and environmental exposure
For example, long-term sun exposure can significantly weaken collagen and elastin, contributing to earlier and more noticeable laxity.
When to seek advice
If you are noticing a loss of firmness or definition in the skin, a more tailored approach can help to identify what is changing and how best to support it.
Seeking advice can help to:
• Distinguish between skin laxity and volume loss
• Identify the most appropriate treatment approach
• Improve firmness while maintaining natural facial movement
• Create a longer-term plan that evolves with your skin
Early intervention can often allow for more subtle and gradual improvement.