What Causes Loose Skin After 40 - And How to Firm It Naturally

Written by an independent, certified dermatologist


As we age, one of the most noticeable skin changes is the loss of firmness. Sagging jawlines, looser neck skin (commonly called "turkey neck"), and drooping cheeks are incredibly common after 40 - especially during and after perimenopause. But what actually causes this change? And can anything be done to firm up mature skin without surgery or harsh treatments?

In this post, we’ll break down the science behind skin laxity, and share evidence-based ways to support firmer, tighter skin naturally - including the benefits of LED light therapy and EMS technology.


Why Skin Starts to Sag

Skin firmness is largely controlled by two structural proteins: collagen and elastin.

  • Collagen gives skin strength and volume
  • Elastin gives it the ability to bounce back

After 40, our body naturally begins to produce less of both. By the time we reach menopause, studies show that women lose up to 30% of their collagen in the first five years alone.

Other contributing factors to sagging skin include:

  • UV damage from sun exposure (which breaks down collagen)
  • Loss of fat volume in the face with age
  • Hormonal changes, particularly declining estrogen
  • Lifestyle factors, like smoking or poor diet


Key Areas Where Loose Skin Appears

  • Jawline and jowls
  • Neck (turkey neck)
  • Cheeks and midface
  • Around the eyes
  • Décolletage

These are often the areas mature women are most concerned about - and they’re also where the right skincare approach can make a real difference.


Natural Solutions to Firm Loose Skin

You don’t need drastic procedures to see an improvement in skin firmness. Here are some of the most effective, non-invasive ways to help lift and tone mature skin.


1. Red and Infrared LED Light Therapy

Red light (640 nm) and Deep Infrared light (up to 780 nm) are the most researched wavelengths for collagen stimulation.

These lights penetrate deep into the dermis to:

  • Stimulate fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin
  • Improve circulation to support skin repair
  • Reduce fine lines and firm sagging areas over time

LED therapy is gentle, pain-free and can be done at home using a quality device like the DermaGlow LED & EMS Mask by Acid Eclipse, which combines multiple LED wavelengths including deep infrared for maximum firming benefits.

Best for:

  • Sagging jawline
  • Loose neck skin
  • Wrinkles and fine lines


2. EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation)

EMS uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate the muscles beneath the skin.

Just like a workout tightens your body, EMS:

  • Strengthens facial muscles
  • Improves muscle tone in the lower face and neck
  • Lifts areas like jowls and cheeks

This is especially helpful for mature skin that has lost both volume and firmness. When combined with LED therapy, EMS offers a dual-action effect - treating both the skin structure and the muscle beneath it.


3. Retinol-Based Serums

Retinol (a derivative of Vitamin A) helps:

  • Boost skin cell turnover
  • Increase collagen production
  • Smooth out fine lines

After using LED therapy, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients. Applying a retinol serum after your session can help boost results. Look for a formulation that’s gentle and hydrating - especially for mature or sensitive skin.


4. Collagen-Boosting Nutrition

What you eat plays a major role in skin health. To support firmer skin:

  • Eat collagen-rich foods like bone broth, eggs, and fish
  • Include Vitamin C (found in citrus and leafy greens) to support natural collagen synthesis
  • Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and plump
  • Consider collagen peptide supplements if approved by your healthcare provider


5. Facial Massage & Lymphatic Drainage

Regular facial massage helps:

  • Improve circulation
  • Encourage lymphatic drainage (reducing puffiness)
  • Tone the underlying muscles of the face

Use your fingertips or a massage tool like a gua sha to gently lift and stimulate your skin, especially along the jawline and cheeks.


6. Protecting Skin From Further Damage

It’s not just about repair - it’s about prevention. To protect the collagen you have:

  • Use a broad-spectrum SPF daily, even in winter
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
  • Use antioxidant-rich serums to neutralise free radicals


The Bottom Line

Skin laxity is a natural part of ageing - but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do. With the right skincare routine and lifestyle habits, you can support firmer, healthier skin at every stage of life.

LED therapy (especially deep infrared and red light) and EMS offer two of the most effective non-invasive tools for targeting sagging skin. When used consistently, they can visibly improve skin tone, elasticity, and definition - especially in problem areas like the neck, jawline, and cheeks.

Pair that with collagen-supporting nutrition, topical actives like retinol, and regular facial massage - and you’ve got a powerful, age-positive routine that supports your skin, naturally.