These are my top non-surgical treatments for tightening the skin
7 December 2024
By Dr Sophie Shotter

As we age, skin laxity becomes one of the most common concerns. The loss of collagen, elastin, and overall volume in the skin leads to sagging, wrinkles, and a loss of firmness. Thankfully, non-surgical treatments for tightening the skin have advanced greatly over the years, providing effective solutions without the need for invasive procedures. But with so many devices and treatments on the market, it can be hard to know which options really work. Here, I’ll walk you through what you can expect from non-surgical skin tightening devices, why there’s such a wide range of them, how to choose one that actually makes a difference, and my top three go-to treatments for youthful, tighter skin.
What to expect from non-surgical skin tightening devices
Non-surgical skin tightening devices use advanced technology to stimulate collagen production, firm the skin, and improve its texture. Depending on the treatment, these devices use various forms of energy, such as ultrasound, radiofrequency (RF), or lasers, to penetrate the surface and target deeper layers of the skin where collagen is produced.
While the results can be impressive, it’s essential to manage your expectations. These treatments generally offer gradual improvements rather than dramatic, overnight changes. Most patients see optimal results after a series of sessions, and the full effect of the treatment may take a few months to appear as the body continues to produce new collagen. One of the biggest benefits is that non-surgical treatments usually involve minimal downtime, allowing you to return to your normal routine quickly.
Why are there so many devices on the market?
You might have noticed that there are a myriad of skin-tightening devices available, each claiming to be the best. This is because skin laxity can be caused by different factors, and not all devices address these in the same way. Some devices target collagen production more directly, while others focus on resurfacing the skin or boosting elastin. Different technologies cater to different skin types, areas of the face and body, and individual concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, or deep laxity.
The surge in new devices also stems from the growing demand for non-invasive options. People are increasingly looking for treatments that don’t require the long recovery time, cost, or risks associated with surgery. This demand has driven innovation, with new devices offering more comfort, shorter treatment times, and more specific results. However, this abundance can make it confusing to figure out which ones actually work and which might not live up to their promises.
So, how can you tell which devices really make a difference?
With so many options, how do you separate the truly effective devices from the gimmicks? First, look for treatments that are FDA-approved or CE-marked here in the UK. This means they’ve undergone rigorous testing to ensure they’re safe and effective.
Next, you want to consult with an experienced practitioner. It’s not just about the device; it’s also about how it’s used. A skilled professional will assess your skin, listen to your concerns, and recommend the treatment that will give you the best results based on your individual needs.
Reading reviews from real patients and asking about clinical studies related to the device can also help you make an informed decision. And finally, be realistic about your expectations. Non-surgical treatments can work wonders, but they won’t give you the same results as a surgical facelift. What they will do is improve your skin’s tone, texture, and elasticity in a more natural and gradual way.
Now that I’ve covered what to expect and how to navigate the market, let’s dive into my top three non-surgical skin-tightening treatments.
Sofwave
Sofwave is an exciting treatment that’s become one of my absolute favourites. It uses advanced ultrasound technology to target the mid-dermis, which is the layer of your skin responsible for collagen production. What’s great about Sofwave is that it delivers the energy right where it’s needed without affecting the surface of the skin, so there’s very little risk of burning or damage. The ultrasound energy heats the skin, stimulating collagen renewal and leading to firmer, tighter skin over time.
Sofwave is best suited to anyone with mild to moderate skin laxity, such as sagging under the chin and jawline, hooded eyelids, or wrinkles forming on the chest. For people in their 30s, Sofwave can help prevent ageing and treat early signs of skin laxity. For women in their 40s and 50s, it can tighten sagging skin and open the eyes, refreshing the face as a whole.
You can expect to see and feel an immediate change in the treated areas. The skin is tighter and looks fresher. Over the following months, the skin will improve, becoming firmer and smoother.
RF Microneedling (Morpheus8)
Another favourite of mine is RF microneedling. Devices like the Morpheus8 combine traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to provide dual benefits. Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing process and boosting collagen production. Meanwhile, the radiofrequency energy penetrates deep into the skin to enhance tightening and improve texture.
Morpheus8 is particularly effective for targeting jowls or under the chin. It can also address fine lines, acne scars, and uneven skin tone. The treatment involves some minor discomfort, and there might be some redness or pinpoint bleeding after the session, but downtime is relatively short—usually just a few days.
The results of RF microneedling are progressive, with most patients noticing firmer, smoother skin within a few weeks. Best of all, it works on almost all skin types, making it a versatile option.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is another brilliant treatment, especially if you want to address both skin laxity and surface imperfections like fine lines, sun damage, or pigmentation. It works by using laser energy to remove the outer layers of damaged skin while also heating the deeper layers to stimulate collagen production. As your skin heals, new, healthier skin appears, and the tightening effect becomes more noticeable.
There are different types of lasers available, and the intensity of the treatment can be customised to suit your skin type and concerns. Fractional lasers, for example, target small areas of the skin at a time, which allows for faster healing and less downtime. That said, laser resurfacing can require a bit more recovery time than other non-surgical treatments. You might experience redness, swelling, and peeling for several days after the procedure.
But the results? Totally worth it. Once your skin heals, you’ll notice a significant improvement in both skin tightness and overall radiance. It’s an excellent option for those who want to tackle multiple skin concerns in one go.
In the world of non-surgical skin tightening, there’s no shortage of options. From ultrasound and radiofrequency to laser treatments, the choices can feel overwhelming. However, by understanding what each treatment offers and working with a trusted practitioner, you can find the right solution for your skin.
If you’d like to learn more about the options, click here to enquire or to book a consultation with an expert practitioner.
