Skin Laxity
The reduction in skin firmness and elasticity resulting from loss of collagen and elastin, manifest as sagging or loose skin, and a primary target indication for many energy-based aesthetic devices.
Full Definition
Skin laxity describes the clinical finding of decreased skin turgor, elasticity, and structural support, most commonly due to intrinsic ageing, photoageing, or significant weight loss. It is assessed through physical examination and graded using validated scales such as the Skin Laxity Grading Scale or the FACE-Q instrument. In aesthetic dermatology documents, laxity is the preferred clinical term over lay descriptors such as 'sagging' or 'loose skin'. Editors should ensure that treatment outcome claims referencing 'improved laxity' are supported by validated photographic or instrument-based assessments in clinical study write-ups.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'skin laxity' to lay terms such as 'sagging' in clinical documents. When referencing improvement, ensure the grading instrument used is cited.
In Context
- "Baseline and follow-up photographs were assessed for skin laxity using a four-point validated grading scale." — Clinical study results section
- "The consent form should specify that results for skin laxity may take up to three months to become visible." — Patient consent form