How Exactly Do Lift And Firming Creams Work?

Moisturize To Lift And Firm The Dermal Layers

The skin is the largest organ in the body and is composed of three layers - the epidermis, dermis, and a subcutaneous tissue layer called the hypodermis (made up of fat and connective tissue). Lift and firming creams work on the different layers to create a plump, firm appearance to the skin. These creams stimulate the production of Collagen in the dermis layer of the skin while also helping to moisturize and hydrate it. They also offer antioxidant protection to the epidermis (outer) layer, and help to regenerate new skin cells and rejuvenate old skin cells that ultimately rise up to this outer layer of the skin to decrease the look of lines and sagginess.

Epidermis

The epidermis is the top layer of the skin which is composed of dead skin cells connected by a protein matrix. It is broken into several layers which include (bottom to top) stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, and the stratum corneum. A fifth layer, the stratum lucidum, is evident in areas such as the bottom of your feet where the skin is thicker. While these cells don't get a blood supply, they are essential in creating a protective barrier for the skin.

The top layer of the epidermis helps retain moisture within the skin, and is normally made up of about 15% water. When the moisture content drops, the skin starts to look dry and flaky until it eventually starts cracking. Lift and firming creams work to rehydrate this layer of the skin and stimulate damaged cells to repair themselves.

Dermis

The dermis is the middle layer of the skin and offers structural support for the skin, as well as connecting the epidermis to the blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves. The dermis is thinner and therefore more prone to wrinkling due to dryness. One primary function of a lift and firming cream is to boost the skin's moisture, and a good cream will work to retain the moisture already present within the dermis. Lift and firming creams also work to increase the collagen in this layer of the skin. Since collagen is the main structural protein of the skin, this helps to plump up and firm the skin.

Hypodermis

The hypodermis is the deepest layer that anchors the skin to muscles and naturally contains fat. It is where skin cells are formed. The natural cycle of the skin means that as new cells are created, dead cells on the epidermis will be worn away, a process that takes around a month. During this time, new skin cells, produced in the hypodermis, rise to the epidermis, and the dead cells flake off.

No cream will be able to revive these dead cells. However, if the skin is properly cared for, younger, newer, viable cells will start to dominate and help the skin look more radiant. The hypodermis benefits greatly from a balanced diet and perhaps even a nutritional supplement such as phytoceramides to help maintain the health of the skin cell renewal hub.

Most products are formulated using one or more of the three main types of substances which include: humectants, emollients and occlusive compounds. Each of these components has a unique mechanism of action and the majority of skincare manufacturers will use a combination of these ingredients to create a synergistic effect for the most positive results.

What Should You Look For In An Effective Lift And Firming Cream?

We have all been let down by products that promise to help us enhance our appearance, only to find a month later that nothing has changed. However, lift and firming creams really do work – if you find a legitimate, quality product.

A good lift and firming product will use the highest quality clinically-studied active ingredients, such as Soluble Collagen and Sodium Hyaluronate. The effectiveness of a product is directly linked to the quantity of active ingredients; more active ingredients typically yield better results. You should also look to buy from reputable companies that sell a range of skincare products.

When you see a company that’s only selling one item and uses some hot marketing slogans in the name, you’re going to want to steer clear. Often, companies will use strong marketing to make up for having a weak formula.

If you want to try out a promising lift and firming cream, check out our reviews. We've analyzed products based on their ingredients, company's reputation, customer reviews, and more, to help you find the right product for yourself. Now you don’t have to scratch your head when you type ‘best lift and firming cream’ into the search bar and end up with hundreds of results. We’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation!

What Makes A Lift And Firming Cream More Effective Than Others?

The secret lies in what makes up the formula. Products that use ingredients that are backed by clinical research are what's going to make the difference. Look for a cream that contains a high percentage of active ingredients such as Soluble Collagen and Sodium Hyaluronate plus supportive ingredients such as Coconut Oil and Pullulan. Lift and firming creams should also offer antioxidant protection and support for the outer layer of skin to help it retain a youthful look.

Read the labels and educate yourself on ingredients. Use the best kept secrets from the laboratory to enjoy firm, plump skin and a shapely appearance.