Do Firming Body Creams Actually Work? | As Featured in Allure

In her recent Allure feature, Dr. Mona Foad educates on the science behind firming body creams and what ingredients to keep an eye out for, depending on your skin type. Today she’s sharing even more tips on this topic to help you choose the best product for your skin!

What can ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid do to improve the appearance of skin laxity? How do these ingredients work to support collagen production and skin smoothness?

I recommend retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid as key ingredients for addressing superficial skin laxity. These ingredients all support skin structure. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, helps to stimulate collagen production and increases skin cell turnover, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture. This encourages smoother, firmer skin. Peptides, which are small chains of amino acids, help strengthen the skin’s barrier while promoting collagen and elastin production. Both of these proteins are essential for maintaining skin elasticity. Hyaluronic acid works by drawing moisture into the skin, providing a plumping effect and supporting hydration. This helps to maintain smoothness and elasticity. While it doesn’t directly stimulate collagen, it is essential for maintaining skin hydration and texture. Combined, these ingredients work together to improve skin health, leading to a firmer, more youthful appearance.

Can a topical product truly “tighten” skin? 

It’s important to understand that topical products, while beneficial, cannot truly “tighten” the skin in a lasting way. The reason for this is that these products only penetrate the outer layers of the skin. The underlying causes of sagging—such as loss of bone, muscle, fat pads and the breakdown of collagen—happen deeper within the skin. As we age, factors like sun exposure, natural aging, and lifestyle habits degrade these structural proteins. Ingredients like retinol and peptides can boost collagen production at the skin’s surface, but they don’t have the ability to reach where it originates. To effectively address the deeper causes of sagging, treatments that target the dermis—such as ultrasound, radio frequency, laser or surgery—are often necessary.

How realistic should people’s expectations be when using firming body creams marketed as “firming” or “tightening”?

I advise patients to maintain realistic expectations when using body creams marketed as “firming” or “tightening.” These creams often contain ingredients like peptides, caffeine, or hyaluronic acid. These can temporarily improve skin texture, hydration, and provide a firmer appearance. However, the effects are generally subtle and should be seen as an addition to a broader skincare routine. For those with more significant skin laxity, these creams can be supportive, but they won’t replicate the lasting and deeper results that professional treatments can deliver.

Are there any specific ingredients or formulations you recommend for boosting skin firmness and elasticity over time? 

For long-term improvement in skin firmness and elasticity, I recommend formulations containing certain ingredients. Retinol (for collagen production), vitamin C (for antioxidant protection and collagen synthesis), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), peptides (for strengthening the skin’s barrier), ceramides (for skin barrier repair), niacinamide (for even texture and tone), and antioxidants (to protect against environmental damage). Retinol is particularly effective at stimulating collagen production, which is crucial for improving skin elasticity and firmness. Vitamin C not only supports collagen synthesis but also provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage that can accelerate aging. Peptides reinforce the skin’s structure by aiding collagen repair, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin, giving it a smoother, more youthful appearance. Ceramides help strengthen the skin’s barrier, and niacinamide contributes to a more even texture and tone. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to address skin laxity, supporting a firmer and more resilient complexion over time.

Do certain skin types or areas of the body respond better to these creams?

Areas with thinner skin may respond more noticeably to firming body creams because they are more likely to show the effects of collagen and elasticity support. People with thinner or more delicate skin types may also see the most pronounced improvements, as the ingredients can have a more visible impact. However, it’s essential to be realistic about the results. Most dermatologists agree that while these creams can offer support, their effects are limited, especially for those with more severe laxity. Individual outcomes depend on various factors, so additional treatments may be necessary for significant tightening.

Are there best practices for applying these creams to maximize their benefits? 

To maximize the benefits of firming and tightening creams, I recommend applying them to clean, exfoliated skin. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively. Applying these creams as part of a nighttime routine is ideal, as the skin naturally repairs itself during sleep. Using gentle, upward strokes while applying the product can improve absorption and circulation, enhancing the results. Consistency is key, and pairing these creams with a comprehensive skincare routine—including daily sun protection—will help maintain skin elasticity and overall skin health over time.

For those looking for more noticeable skin tightening, what other in-office treatments could complement or enhance the effects of topical products?

To achieve more noticeable skin tightening, consider in-office treatments like radio frequency (RF) therapy, microneedling, ultrasound treatments (like Sofwave or Ultherapy) or laser resurfacing. These treatments target the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate collagen production. They can have skin-tightening effects that go beyond what topical products can achieve alone. RF therapy and Ultrasound  use heat or sound waves to stimulate collagen remodeling, while microneedling creates micro-injuries that promote the skin’s natural repair process. Laser resurfacing and chemical peels improve skin texture by removing damaged outer layers and encouraging collagen renewal. These options work well when combined with a consistent skincare routine, delivering both immediate and lasting improvements in skin firmness.

What lifestyle habits can help support the skin’s elasticity alongside using these creams? Are there any benefits to hydration, nutrition, or exercise in keeping skin looking firm and resilient?

Lifestyle habits play a key role in supporting skin elasticity and can enhance the benefits of firming creams. Staying hydrated, eating a diet rich in antioxidants and collagen-supporting nutrients, and engaging in regular exercise can help maintain firmness. Proper hydration supports skin plumpness and a diet that includes antioxidants helps protect against free radical damage, which can accelerate skin aging. Protecting your skin from sun exposure is also crucial, as UV rays break down collagen and lead to premature sagging. In-office treatments such as laser therapy, microneedling, or radio frequency treatments can further boost collagen regeneration in the skin’s deeper layers. Together, these lifestyle habits and treatments support a holistic approach to skin health, promoting a firm and resilient complexion over time.

What are some products that you recommend for body firming and overall hydration?

I recommend SkinMedica Firm & Tone Lotion for Body for those seeking to improve skin firmness and texture. The lotion contains peptides to stimulate collagen production and caffeine, which provides a temporary tightening effect by boosting circulation. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is easy to apply and leaves the skin feeling smooth without any greasy residue. While you’ll notice some immediate smoothing and tightening, consistent use is essential for more significant, long-term improvements in skin tone and firmness. For optimal results, apply the firming body cream after exfoliating to help the active ingredients penetrate more effectively.

The Lilac Soothing Body Lotion from Nativa SPA is also a great product I recommend for body firming. It’s formulated with quinoa oil and bioretinol, which support skin renewal and can provide a smoother, firmer appearance over time. The texture is creamy but light, absorbing quickly into the skin. This lotion a good choice for those looking to improve skin texture and tone without harsh ingredients. Plus, the subtle floral scent adds a nice touch for a calming, self-care experience.

I also recommend the TransFORM Body Treatment with TriHex Technology®.  This product helps reduce the appearance of crepey skin anywhere on the body, including arms, hands, and knees. It hydrates the skin from the inside out with key botanicals that support the production of hyaluronic acid and glycosaminoglycans. The TriHex Technology® supports the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen.