What Is The Best Treatment For Crepey Skin?

The best treatment for crepey skin depends on how severe your concerns are and where they appear on your body. For mild crepey skin, topical retinoids and moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid can help improve texture over time. For moderate to significant crepey skin, professional treatments like RF microneedling, laser resurfacing, and ultrasound therapy offer more dramatic results by stimulating collagen production deep within the skin.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about treating crepey skin. You will learn what causes this common skin concern, whether it can be reversed, and which treatments work best for different areas like the arms, neck, and face. We will also share real data from clinical studies and explain how treatments like RF microneedling can help restore firmer, smoother skin.

What Causes Skin to Become Crepey?

Crepey skin develops when your skin loses its structural support. The main proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and bouncy are collagen and elastin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your body produces about 1% less collagen each year after age 20. Over time, this gradual decline leads to thinner skin that wrinkles easily and does not snap back the way it used to.

But aging is not the only factor. Sun damage is actually the leading cause of crepey skin. According to the Cleveland Clinic, ultraviolet rays from the sun break down elastin fibers over time. While these fibers can heal to some extent, repeated exposure eventually damages them beyond repair. Think of it like an elastic waistband that gets stretched out after too much wear.

Other factors that contribute to crepey skin include:

• Dehydration and moisture loss. As we age, our skin produces fewer natural oils. This makes it harder to retain moisture, leaving skin looking thin and fragile.
• Weight fluctuations. Rapid weight loss or frequent changes in weight can stretch the skin. When fat is lost faster than the skin can adjust, you may be left with loose, crepey texture.
• Hormonal changes. According to the Journal of Dermatological Science, estrogen plays a key role in skin hydration and collagen production. During menopause, estrogen levels drop, leading to thinner and less elastic skin.
• Lifestyle factors. Smoking, poor diet, lack of sleep, and chronic stress all accelerate skin aging. The American Academy of Dermatology Association notes that high cortisol levels can inhibit collagen and hyaluronic acid production.
• Genetics. If your mother or grandmother developed crepey skin, you may be more likely to experience it too.

Here in Lee’s Summit, we see many clients who are surprised to learn that sun damage from their younger years is showing up now as crepey skin on their arms, neck, and chest. The good news is that effective treatments are available.

Want to learn more about your options? Contact us to set up a time to chat with our team.

Can You Reverse Crepey Skin?

While you cannot completely reverse crepey skin to look like it did in your twenties, you can significantly improve its appearance with the right approach. The key is stimulating your skin to produce new collagen and elastin, which helps restore firmness and smooth out that papery texture.

According to Water’s Edge Dermatology, crepey skin cannot be entirely reversed, but there are steps you can take to make your skin firmer and smoother. A combination of topical treatments, lifestyle changes, and professional procedures typically produces the best results.

The most effective approach involves treatments that work below the surface of your skin. Topical creams and lotions can help with hydration and mild texture issues. However, for noticeable improvement in moderate to significant crepey skin, professional treatments that stimulate collagen production at deeper levels tend to work better.

Research published in the National Institutes of Health shows that both oral and topical collagen treatments can help reduce signs of aging by improving skin moisture, elasticity, and hydration. Studies found that consistent use of collagen-stimulating products and treatments can produce visible improvements over time.

The amount of improvement you can expect depends on several factors:

• How severe your crepey skin is
• What caused it in the first place
• Your age and overall skin health
• How consistent you are with treatment
• Which treatments you choose

For our Kansas City area clients dealing with mild crepey skin, a good skincare routine with the right ingredients may be enough. For more significant concerns, we often recommend a combination approach that includes professional treatments like microneedling or laser skin resurfacing.

Thinking about trying treatment for crepey skin? Request a consultation and let’s talk about what might work best for you.

Does RF Tighten Crepey Skin?

Yes, RF (radiofrequency) treatments are among the most effective options for tightening crepey skin. RF microneedling in particular has become a popular choice because it addresses the root cause of crepey skin by stimulating new collagen and elastin production.

According to a 2021 review published in Dermatologic Surgery, radiofrequency microneedling is an effective treatment that can be used repeatedly and safely. The review analyzed 42 higher-quality studies and found positive results for skin rejuvenation, with 14 studies specifically focused on improving skin texture and firmness.

Here is how RF microneedling works for crepey skin:

The treatment combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy. The needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin while simultaneously delivering heat to the deeper layers. This dual action triggers your body’s natural healing response. As your skin repairs itself, it produces new collagen and elastin fibers.

According to research published in the National Institutes of Health, RF microneedling consistently improves skin texture and elasticity by enhancing collagen synthesis and promoting dermal remodeling. The treatment reaches the deeper layers where your skin’s support structure lives, which is why it works well for thin, crepey skin.

A study combining RF microneedling with fractional resurfacing found broad improvements in texture, tone, and elasticity, particularly in aging and crepey facial skin. Patients saw visible tightening and smoother texture after a short series of treatments.

What makes RF treatments especially good for crepey skin:

At Slimming Solutions Med Spa, we have seen great results using RF microneedling for crepey skin on the face, neck, and even body areas like the arms. Most clients need three to five sessions spaced four to six weeks apart for optimal results.

Have questions about whether RF microneedling is right for you? Reach out to our team. We are happy to help.

How Do You Fix Crepey Skin on Arms?

Crepey skin on the upper arms is one of the most common concerns we hear about here in Lee’s Summit. The arms are particularly prone to this issue because of frequent sun exposure and thinner skin in this area.

According to dermatologists, treating crepey arm skin often requires a different approach than facial treatments. The skin on your arms is thicker in some areas and heals differently than facial skin. Energy levels and treatment depths need to be adjusted specifically for arm anatomy.

Here are the most effective treatments for crepey arm skin:

RF Microneedling. This treatment works well on the arms because it can be customized for thicker skin. The combination of microneedling and radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen production while also providing immediate tightening. Multiple sessions are typically needed for best results.

Laser Resurfacing. Laser skin resurfacing creates controlled micro-injuries that trigger your body’s healing response. As the skin heals, it produces new collagen and elastin, leading to firmer, smoother arms over time. According to one dermatology practice, Fraxel lasers work well on the arms because they heat the underlying collagen layer, causing it to contract and tighten.

Ultrasound Therapy. Treatments like Ultherapy use focused ultrasound energy to reach deeper layers of the skin. This stimulates collagen production and can help with both texture and firmness on the arms.

Collagen-Stimulating Fillers. Products like Sculptra and Radiesse work by stimulating your body to produce its own collagen over time. These can be effective for arms with significant crepey texture.

For at-home care between treatments, look for body lotions containing:

• Retinol or retinoids to boost collagen production
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) for gentle exfoliation
• Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
• Peptides to support skin firmness

According to U.S. Dermatology Partners, moisturizing creams with these ingredients can help minimize the appearance of crepey skin on arms and legs, especially when used consistently.

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with us and let’s talk about what might work best for your arms.

What Helps Crepey Skin on Neck?

The neck is often one of the first places to show signs of aging. According to the National Laser Institute, your neck contains fewer oil glands than your face, which means it ages faster. Years of sun exposure, constant movement, and the effects of gravity all contribute to crepey neck skin.

Treating crepey neck skin requires special care because the skin in this area is delicate. Here are the most effective options:

RF Microneedling. This treatment is particularly effective for neck skin. According to Dallas Dermatology Partners, RF microneedling improves elasticity and provides natural-looking tightening. For deep-set horizontal lines or significant crepey neck skin, they often recommend combining RF microneedling with collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra for better results.

Prescription Retinoids. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Jow Libby from Brown University, retinoids help stimulate skin cell turnover and collagen production, which firms skin and improves skin quality. These are stronger than over-the-counter retinol and can produce more noticeable results.

Laser Resurfacing. The Schweiger Dermatology Group recommends CO2 laser and Fraxel treatments for crepey neck skin. These lasers vaporize damaged surface cells and speed cell regeneration, helping your skin replace old cells with new, healthy ones.

Ultrasound Therapy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, ultrasound treatments penetrate deep tissue layers and stimulate new collagen growth. This procedure is commonly used on the neck, eyebrows, chin, and chest area.

Thread Lifts. For necks with significant sagging, PDO threads can provide lift while also stimulating collagen production. This treatment places sutures under the skin to anchor loose tissue in place.

For at-home neck care, dermatologists recommend:

• Using the same anti-aging products on your neck that you use on your face
• Applying SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily
• Looking for products with retinol and peptides
• Keeping the neck area well-moisturized

According to CNN Underscored, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kristina Collins recommends looking for products with ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids to strengthen the skin barrier, along with retinoids and AHAs.

If you are in the Kansas City area and curious about your options for neck rejuvenation, schedule a consultation with us. We are here to help.

What Procedure Fixes Thin Crepey Skin?

Several professional procedures can help fix thin, crepey skin. The best choice depends on how severe your concerns are, where they are located, and what kind of results you want to achieve.

Here is a comparison of the most effective procedures for crepey skin:

RF Microneedling is often considered the gold standard for crepey skin because it addresses multiple concerns at once. The treatment creates tiny wounds that trigger healing while delivering radiofrequency heat to tighten existing collagen and stimulate new production. According to a comprehensive review, RF microneedling demonstrates high efficacy in treating wrinkles, loss of firmness, and texture concerns.

Laser Skin Resurfacing works by creating controlled damage that prompts new collagen formation. Fraxel lasers, for example, deliver thousands of tiny laser columns that penetrate deep layers of your skin to speed up collagen production. According to Cosmetic Laser Centers, patients typically need four to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart for best results.

Ultrasound Treatments like Ultherapy use focused ultrasound energy to reach the foundational layers where skin support structures live. According to multiple sources, this FDA-cleared treatment stimulates collagen and elastin production. Results appear gradually over two to three months as new collagen forms.

Collagen-Stimulating Fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse work differently than traditional fillers. Instead of just adding volume, they stimulate your body to produce its own collagen over time. This helps improve skin quality and thickness from within.

Chemical Peels remove the damaged outer layers of skin and promote cell turnover. While gentler peels help with mild crepiness, deeper peels for pigmentation and texture can provide more significant improvement.

At Slimming Solutions Med Spa, we often recommend combining treatments for the best results. For example, RF microneedling paired with a collagen-stimulating filler can address both texture and volume loss.

Want to learn more about which procedure might be right for you? Contact us to set up a consultation.

Best At-Home Treatments for Crepey Skin

While professional treatments offer the most dramatic results, a good at-home skincare routine can help prevent crepey skin from getting worse and support the results of in-office procedures.

According to board-certified dermatologists, here are the most effective ingredients to look for:

Retinoids. According to the Cleveland Clinic, retinol topical creams help reduce crepey skin by restoring elasticity and thickening collagen. Dr. Amy Kassouf notes that when starting retinol, there is often a phase that seems drier and flakier before the skin improves. This is temporary and part of the process of shedding older, damaged skin cells.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). Products containing glycolic acid, lactic acid, or other AHAs help exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover. According to Healthline, studies have shown that people who use AHA products have noticeably thicker, smoother, and firmer skin.

Hyaluronic Acid. This hydrating ingredient pulls moisture into the skin and helps plump it. According to multiple dermatologists, hyaluronic acid is one of the best ingredients for crepey skin because it addresses the dehydration that contributes to that papery texture.

Peptides. These amino acid chains help support collagen production. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Jow Libby recommends looking for products containing peptides along with retinoids for best results on crepey skin.

Vitamin C. This antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals from sun exposure and supports collagen production. Using a vitamin C serum daily can help protect against further damage while improving skin quality.

Here is a simple at-home routine for crepey skin:

1. Cleanse with a gentle, hydrating cleanser
2. Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning
3. Moisturize with a cream containing hyaluronic acid
4. Protect with SPF 30+ sunscreen every day
5. Use retinol at night, starting slowly and building up
6. Exfoliate with AHAs one to two times per week

According to a 54-person evaluation, 80% of women saw an instant reduction in the look of crepey skin on the body after using products with active anti-aging ingredients, and 91% saw a lifted appearance after eight weeks.

For our Lee’s Summit clients, we recommend combining a consistent at-home routine with periodic professional treatments for the best long-term results. Check out our services page to see what we offer.

How to Prevent Crepey Skin From Getting Worse

Prevention is always easier than treatment. Even if you already have some crepey skin, taking steps to protect your skin can help slow further progression.

Wear sunscreen every day. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UV exposure is the leading cause of premature skin aging. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. According to dermatologists, many people underestimate how much sun damage occurs through windows and on overcast days.

Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water helps keep your skin plump from the inside out. In addition to water intake, use hydrating products containing hyaluronic acid and glycerin to trap moisture in your skin.

Do not smoke. Smoking causes significant damage to the skin by dehydrating it and accelerating the aging process. According to multiple dermatologists, tobacco users develop crepey skin earlier and more severely than non-smokers.

Eat a balanced diet. Foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers), protein (lean meats, fish), and healthy fats (avocados, nuts) support collagen production. According to the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, collagen supplements may also help improve skin hydration and firmness.

Maintain a stable weight. Rapid weight loss or frequent fluctuations can stretch the skin and contribute to crepey texture. If you are working on medical weight loss, talk to your provider about supporting your skin health during the process.

Get enough sleep. Research shows that regularly going to bed late damages the skin barrier and skin structure. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.

Manage stress. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, chronic stress and high cortisol levels inhibit collagen production. Find healthy ways to manage stress, whether through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.

Use the right skincare products. Start an anti-aging routine before you notice significant crepey skin. Products containing retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants can help maintain skin health as you age.

If you are noticing the early signs of crepey skin and want to get ahead of it, reach out to our team. We can help you create a prevention and treatment plan.

When to See a Professional for Crepey Skin

While at-home care can help with mild crepey skin, there are times when professional treatment makes more sense. Here are some signs that it might be time to schedule a consultation:

• Your crepey skin is moderate to severe
• Over-the-counter products are not producing noticeable improvement
• You want faster, more dramatic results
• The crepey skin covers larger areas like your arms, neck, or chest
• You have significant skin laxity along with crepey texture
• Your skin bruises or tears easily due to thinness

According to Water’s Edge Dermatology, crepey skin is more than an aesthetic issue. Thin, fragile skin can more easily bruise, break open, and bleed. Professional treatments can help strengthen the skin and reduce this fragility.

At Slimming Solutions Med Spa, we offer a variety of treatments for crepey skin, including:

• RF Microneedling
• Traditional Microneedling
• Laser Skin Resurfacing
• Chemical Peels
• Dermal Fillers
• Sculptra
• Skin Tightening Treatments

During a consultation, we will examine your skin, discuss your concerns, and help you understand which treatments might work best for your specific situation. We can also create a customized treatment plan that combines professional procedures with an at-home routine for the best results.

Check out our before and after photos to see the types of results our clients have achieved.

Final Thoughts

Crepey skin is a common concern that affects many people as they age. While you cannot completely reverse it, a combination of the right skincare products and professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance of thin, papery skin.

The best treatment for your crepey skin depends on its severity and location. For mild concerns, topical retinoids and hydrating products may be enough. For moderate to significant crepey skin, professional treatments like RF microneedling, laser resurfacing, and collagen-stimulating fillers offer more dramatic improvement.

Sun damage is the leading cause of crepey skin, so daily sunscreen use is one of the best things you can do for prevention. Staying hydrated, eating well, not smoking, and maintaining a consistent skincare routine all help support skin health as you age.

Whether you are dealing with crepey skin on your face, neck, arms, or other areas, treatments are available that can help restore firmer, smoother texture. At Slimming Solutions Med Spa here in Lee’s Summit, we have helped many clients in the Kansas City area improve their skin quality and feel more confident.

Ready to see what we can do for your crepey skin? Request a consultation today, and let our team help you create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.