Sagging Skin

Collagen and elastin help keep your skin firm. You may develop sagging skin with age as your skin loses its natural elasticity. According to Skincarephysicians.com, intrinsic aging is a natural part of the aging process that reduces collagen and elastin production in your skin. Extrinsic factors such as repetitive facial expressions, sleeping positions, smoking and sun exposure can prematurely age your skin and lead to sagging. Extreme or rapid weight loss may also contribute to saggy skin.

Genetics may predispose you to have saggy skin on certain parts of your body. Muscles that support your skin gradually weaken as you age, and may allow fat to accumulate in areas that form saggy portions of skin. Fluid retention can cause puffiness that forms saggy tissue as it progresses. Your skin gradually loses is ability to shed dead skin cells as you age, and this may contribute to saggy skin. Loose skin can result from a lack of muscle beneath your skin. You may experience this kind of saggy skin if you lose weight primarily from dieting without exercise, or lose weight too rapidly. Sun damaged dry skin can produce fine lines and wrinkles that may progress and become saggy skin.