Crepey Skin: Treatments, Causes & Prevention Tips

You’ve probably noticed it on your hands or maybe your arms— that thin, slightly wrinkled texture that resembles crepe paper. It’s called, aptly, “crepey skin,” and while harmless, it’s a common concern for many as we age.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into what causes crepey skin, how you can tell if you have it, and most importantly, what you can do to treat and prevent it. We’ll explore everything from simple lifestyle changes to powerful professional treatments.

Crepey skin primarily results from the natural depletion of collagen and elastin in our skin as we age. These proteins are crucial for maintaining skin’s structure, elasticity, and firmness. However, other factors beyond intrinsic aging can contribute to this process:

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major culprit. UV rays break down collagen and elastin fibres, leading to premature ageing and crepey skin.

Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin. This process hinders collagen production and accelerates skin damage.

Some individuals are genetically predisposed to thinner skin, making them more susceptible to crepey skin at an earlier age.

When you lose weight quickly, previously stretched skin may struggle to regain its elasticity, resulting in a crepey appearance.

Water is essential for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. Chronic dehydration can contribute to a crepey texture.

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen decline during menopause, can lead to decreased collagen production and thinner skin.

Long-term use of corticosteroids, for example, can thin the skin and increase the risk of developing crepey skin.

Exposure to pollution, harsh weather conditions, and even air conditioning can dehydrate the skin and contribute to premature ageing.

Crepey skin is easy to identify once you know what to look for. It presents as:

• Thin and Fine Wrinkles: The wrinkles resemble those found on crepe paper – fine, shallow, and often crisscrossed. They are less pronounced than deep wrinkles caused by facial expressions.
• Loose and Sagging Skin: The affected area may appear loose, slightly drooping, or less firm than surrounding skin.
• A Dry, Papery Texture: The skin feels thin, delicate, and almost fragile to the touch. It might also have a slightly rough or uneven texture.
• Loss of Elasticity: Pinch a small area of skin and release – if it takes longer than usual to bounce back, it could indicate a loss of elasticity associated with crepey skin.

While completely reversing crepey skin is challenging, numerous treatments can improve its appearance and restore a youthful texture. The best approach often involves a combination of these methods tailored to your individual needs and concerns.

Skin-boosting treatments offer a versatile approach to rejuvenating skin using prescription medicines. Unlike volumising treatments that focus on adding volume, skin boosters and bio-stimulators revive lax, lined, dull, or sunken skin. They improve the skin’s overall health, flexibility, tone, and texture.

These injectables use naturally occurring substances to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. For example, the Sculptra Aesthetic injectable uses poly-L-lactic acid to gradually stimulate collagen production, resulting in a more youthful, volumised appearance over time. It is particularly effective for treating crepey skin on the face and body.

The V2 Injector is a device that delivers hyaluronic acid fillers into the skin using a multi-needle system. This allows for precise and consistent delivery, hydrating the skin and improving its texture.

This innovative treatment uses controlled thermal energy to create microscopic channels in the skin, stimulating collagen production and skin tightening. Tixel can improve skin texture, tone, and fine lines.

Also known as micro-needling, this procedure involves using tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer, smoother skin.

Various laser treatments can address crepey skin by heating the deeper layers of skin, promoting collagen remodelling and tightening. These treatments offer varying levels of intensity and downtime.

Important Note: Before undergoing any treatment, consult with one of the Registered Nurses from The Cosmetic Studio Noosa to discuss your individual needs, expectations, and the most suitable options for your skin type and concerns.

Crepey skin is a common concern as we age, but several effective ways exist to prevent and minimise its appearance. Here are some key strategies to keep your skin smooth and supple:

The most crucial step, especially here on the Sunshine Coast, in preventing crepey skin is protecting yourself from sun damage:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days
• Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours
• Wear protective clothing like long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats when outdoors

Keeping your skin well-hydrated is crucial:

• Use a moisturiser daily, especially after bathing when the skin is damp
• Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or alpha/beta hydroxy acids
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day

Certain lifestyle factors can help maintain skin health:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, D, E, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Get regular exercise to improve circulation
• Manage stress and get adequate sleep
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Incorporate these practices into your skincare regimen:

• Gently exfoliate 1-2 times per week to remove dead skin cells
• Use retinol or prescription retinoids to boost collagen production
• Apply topical antioxidants like vitamin C serums

For more intensive prevention or treatment, consider:

• Chemical peels to improve skin texture
• Laser treatments to stimulate collagen production
• Dermal fillers to restore lost volume in areas prone to crepey skin

Combining these strategies and starting early can significantly reduce your risk of developing crepey skin and maintain a youthful, healthy complexion as you age. Remember to consult with the Registered Nurses at The Cosmetic Studio Noosa for personalised advice and treatment options.