Much to our dismay, skin sags as we age (wrinkles aren’t the only marker of multiple trips around the sun!). Slowly, we start to see gravity, UV rays and pollution take their toll on the firmness of our skin. And sadly, no amount of gua sha or facial massaging can pick it back up.
“Levels of collagen and elastin, the structural proteins in the dermis, naturally diminish from a young age, while its production drastically slows down starting in our early 20s,” explains founder and CMO of Clinical Skin, Ewelina Aiossa. “As a result, skin gradually loses its suppleness and laxity becomes more evident, predominantly around the eyes, cheeks and chin.”
Luckily, the skin-care market has quite a few solutions for tightening up sagging skin, with our favorite right now being none other than the Clinical Skin PolyPeptide Firming Serum ($250). The reason this one is standing out from the rest? The ingredients are top-notch.
Some major skin-care players are housed in this formula, including peptides, ceramides, lipids, antioxidants, minerals, hyaluronic acid, and plankton extract. “Antioxidants and ceramides are essential actives that enhance skin protection, and as a result, [the skin’s] overall health and appearance,” says Houston dermatologist Jennifer M. Segal, MD.
Clinical Skin PolyPeptide Firming Serum has also been specially formulated with four multitasking peptides: copper peptide, Argireline®, Matrixyl®, and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-28 to help enhance skin firmness and elasticity. And in addition to that, the formula contains A.C.E. Technology™, the brand’s proprietary blend of vitamins C and E, ceramides 1, 2, 3, and 6, and superoxide dismutase, an anti-oxidative enzyme. According to Dr. Segal, the ceramides in this formula—they’re a natural component of the skin—contribute to the overall quality and maintenance of the skin barrier, which is important for preventing dryness and sensitive skin. While the antioxidants defend the skin from free-radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollutants. “With the appropriate antioxidant, one gets less sun damage with sun exposure, and therefore they are a wonderful ‘boost’—but not replacement—for any sunscreen,” Dr. Segal adds.
The PolyPeptide Firming Serum delivers significant, proven skin benefits. Clinical studies have demonstrated that it improves the appearance of skin firmness by 29.7 percent, improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by 22.5 percent, and increases moisturization by 77.4 percent. All study participants were able to enjoy these benefits without any evidence of irritation. Even better, results typically began to present in just four weeks and continued to improve over time.
When using this serum, you’ll want to first apply a droplet onto the back of your hand and use your fingertips to smooth it directly onto your face, neck and décolleté. Use it twice daily after cleansing and before moisturizing.
It’s important to note that having sagging skin is not a prerequisite for using this formula. It can be beneficial for people of all ages who seek both preventive and corrective solutions for signs of aging. With all these skin-boosting benefits in mind, we’d consider this product a no-brainer.
To purchase the PolyPeptide Firming Serum, visit clinicalskin.com.
