If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about the loose or crepey skin on your upper arms, you’re certainly not alone. Many people experience a loss of firmness in this area as they age, lose weight, or go through hormonal changes. Even with regular exercise, you may find that the skin doesn’t tighten in the way you hoped.
In recent years, Lanluma has gained attention for its ability to stimulate natural collagen, providing gradual and natural-looking improvement. But how well does it work for the upper arms specifically? Is it suitable for everyone? And what kind of results can you realistically expect?
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using Lanluma for arm skin tightening, including how the treatment works, who it’s best for, what improvements you may notice and how long the results take to develop.
Why Arm Skin Begins to Loosen
Loose upper-arm skin develops for several reasons. As you age, your body produces less collagen, which means your skin becomes thinner and less elastic. This change often becomes noticeable in areas where the skin is naturally finer, such as the upper arms. Weight fluctuations can also affect skin laxity because the tissue stretches and sometimes struggles to retract fully afterwards.
Hormonal changes, genetics and natural variations in skin thickness contribute to how quickly the upper arms lose firmness. Even if you stay fit and maintain muscle tone, the skin itself may not tighten, leaving you with a sagging or crepey appearance that feels out of your control.
Understanding these causes helps you appreciate why collagen-stimulating treatments like Lanluma can be effective. They work not by pulling the skintight but by encouraging your body to rebuild the foundation underneath.
What Is Lanluma and How Does It Work?
Lanluma is a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulator. Instead of filling or adding volume superficially, it encourages your body to produce new collagen gradually. When injected into the treatment area, Lanluma triggers a controlled inflammatory response that activates collagen production over several months.
This slow and steady process gives the skin time to remodel itself from within. You won’t see instant tightening because the improvement happens as new collagen fibres strengthen and thicken your tissue structure. The result is a more natural, subtle change that doesn’t distort your features or create stiffness in your arms.
How Lanluma Behaves in the Skin
Collagen stimulation – PLLA particles encourage your fibroblasts to produce fresh collagen, which gradually restores thickness and firmness.
Bio-compatible action – Because the material dissolves naturally over time, your long-term result is based on your own collagen rather than the product itself.
Gradual transformation – Improvements appear slowly, making the results look natural and avoiding the sudden change that some people prefer to avoid.
This mode of action is one reason Lanluma is trusted for areas with delicate or stretched skin.
Why the Upper Arms Respond Well to Collagen Stimulation
The upper arms are a common concern because the skin tends to be thinner than other areas. Once collagen levels start dropping, this skin can develop laxity quickly, especially if you’ve lost weight or experienced volume changes in your arms. The loose texture cannot always be corrected with exercise alone because building muscle doesn’t automatically tighten the skin above it.
Lanluma works well here because it targets the underlying cause of laxity: a weakened collagen network. When the structure beneath the skin improves, the surface naturally appears firmer and smoother. This can help reduce the “crepe-like” appearance many people notice at the back of their arms or in the area just above the triceps.
What Improvements Can You Expect?
Lanluma is known for producing subtle but meaningful improvements in arm firmness. You should not expect the dramatic effect of surgery, but you can look forward to more supportive and resilient skin. Over the months following treatment, you may notice the skin becoming thicker, more elastic and better able to drape smoothly over the underlying muscle.
Many patients report feeling more confident wearing short sleeves or sleeveless clothing, especially because the results look natural and blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. The improvement is typically noticeable to you but not obvious to others unless they knew you were receiving treatment.
Typical Improvements
Better firmness – Skin begins to feel tighter and less loose as collagen fibres rebuild structure.
Smoother texture – Crepey areas soften, giving the arms a more youthful appearance.
Enhanced elasticity – The skin responds better to movement once the underlying support returns.
Each improvement builds on collagen growth over time rather than appearing all at once.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Lanluma on the Arms?
Lanluma works best in people who want to improve mild to moderate skin laxity rather than severe sagging. It is particularly helpful if your arms have lost firmness gradually, or if weight loss has left the skin looking thinner than before. You may be a strong candidate if you want a non-surgical treatment and are happy with gradual, natural-looking results.
Individuals with good overall skin health tend to see better outcomes because their body responds efficiently to collagen stimulation. However, even people with thinner skin can benefit as long as expectations are realistic. Lanluma is not meant to replace arm lift surgery for those with very loose or excess skin, but it provides a valuable alternative when surgery feels too invasive.
Ideal Candidate Indicators
Mild to moderate laxity – Skin that sags slightly or feels crepey often responds very well to collagen stimulation.
Patient expectations – You appreciate gradual improvement rather than instant tightening or dramatic change.
Healthy lifestyle – Good hydration, nutrition and overall health support better collagen production.
Your consultation helps determine whether Lanluma aligns with your goals.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
The number of treatments varies based on your starting point and your desired improvement. Most people need one to two sessions, spaced several weeks apart. Those with more pronounced laxity may require additional sessions to achieve optimal support. Your practitioner will assess your arm skin carefully and tailor a plan according to how your body is likely to respond.
After each treatment, collagen production increases over the following weeks. Since PLLA works gradually, spacing the treatments allows your results to build steadily without overwhelming the tissue.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Treatment begins with a thorough consultation where your practitioner assesses your arm skin and maps out the areas that need collagen stimulation. On the day of the procedure, the skin is numbed to keep you comfortable. Lanluma is then injected using targeted techniques that ensure even distribution across the area.
The session is usually quick, and most people find it very manageable. Once the product is injected, you’ll be advised to massage the arms for a few days, as this helps encourage even placement and optimal collagen stimulation. Afterwards, you can resume normal daily activities as long as you avoid strenuous exercise for a short time.
How Long Will It Take to See Results?
One of the key features of Lanluma is its gradual development. You won’t see immediate firming because the collagen formation process needs time. Most people start noticing subtle improvements around six to eight weeks after their first session. The most visible changes appear between three and six months, once collagen fibres have remodelled the tissue.
This timeline ensures your results look natural and consistent with the way your skin behaves. The slow transformation makes the treatment ideal if you prefer changes that blend seamlessly into your overall appearance without drawing attention.
How Long Do Results Last?
Lanluma results are long-lasting because they are based on your own collagen. Most people enjoy improvements for up to two years, although the duration varies from person to person. Maintenance sessions can be scheduled once results begin to soften, usually around the eighteen to twenty-four month mark.
Your lifestyle and genetics influence how long the results hold. If you stay healthy, protect your skin from sun damage and maintain stable weight, your collagen tends to last longer.
Comparing Lanluma to Other Arm Tightening Options
Lanluma is unique because it stimulates collagen rather than tightening the skin mechanically or removing tissue. This gives it a natural advantage in cases where subtle firming is the goal. By comparison, radiofrequency treatments offer heat-based tightening but may require frequent maintenance. Surgical arm lifts provide dramatic results but involve incisions and downtime.
Lanluma sits comfortably in the middle, offering visible improvement without invasive measures or extended recovery.
Why People Choose Lanluma
Natural approach – Your results come from your own collagen rather than artificial tightening.
Low downtime – Most people return to daily activities quickly, making it suitable for busy schedules.
Non-surgical solution – You avoid scars, recovery periods and surgical risks associated with arm lift procedures.
This balance makes Lanluma a valuable choice for those wanting subtle yet meaningful changes.
Possible Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Lanluma is widely regarded as safe when administered by trained professionals. Side effects are typically mild and may include temporary swelling, tenderness or bruising at the injection site. These effects resolve quickly and rarely interfere with daily life.
Because Lanluma works with your body’s natural processes, it avoids the risks associated with major tightening procedures. However, it is important to attend a consultation to ensure you are a suitable candidate, especially if you have specific medical conditions or unique skin characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can Lanluma help with very loose or sagging arm skin?
Lanluma is most effective for mild to moderate skin laxity. It works by stimulating your body’s natural collagen, which gradually firms and thickens the skin. For severe sagging or excess skin, surgical options like an arm lift may be necessary to achieve the dramatic tightening that Lanluma cannot provide. The treatment is best suited for people who want a non-surgical, subtle improvement rather than immediate, surgical-level results.
2. How quickly will I notice improvements after treatment?
Results from Lanluma develop gradually because collagen production takes time. Most patients begin to notice subtle changes in firmness and texture around six to eight weeks after the first session. The most noticeable improvements usually occur between three and six months, as the collagen network remodels and strengthens the skin. Patience is key, as the slow transformation ensures a natural and seamless look.
3. How long do the results last?
The longevity of Lanluma results varies depending on individual factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle, and skin care habits. On average, improvements last up to two years. Maintenance treatments can be scheduled if the skin begins to lose firmness, typically around the eighteen- to twenty-four-month mark. Protecting the skin from sun exposure, maintaining a healthy weight, and supporting overall skin health can help prolong the effects.
4. Is Lanluma safe for everyone?
Lanluma is generally safe for most adults with healthy skin. The product is made from poly-L-lactic acid, which naturally stimulates collagen and is biocompatible. However, a consultation with a trained practitioner is essential to ensure suitability, particularly for people with specific medical conditions, autoimmune disorders, or unusual skin characteristics. The professional assessment helps minimise risks and ensures the best outcome.
5. How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your starting point and desired results. Some people see meaningful improvement with just one session, while others may require two or more treatments spaced several weeks apart. The practitioner tailors the plan according to the thickness of the skin, the degree of laxity, and how your body responds to collagen stimulation. The gradual buildup of results allows treatments to be spaced in a way that supports natural-looking improvement.
6. Will the procedure be painful?
Lanluma injections are generally well-tolerated. The treatment begins with numbing the skin to minimise discomfort. Some patients may feel mild stinging or pressure during injections, but it is typically manageable. After treatment, temporary tenderness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site is possible, but these side effects usually resolve quickly and rarely interfere with daily activities.
7. Can I return to normal activities immediately after treatment?
Yes, most people can resume their daily routines immediately. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for a short period, particularly in the first few days after treatment, to allow the product to settle evenly and support collagen production. Light massage of the treated area may also be advised to enhance distribution and optimise results.
8. How does Lanluma compare to other arm tightening treatments?
Lanluma works by stimulating the body’s own collagen rather than mechanically tightening the skin or surgically removing it. Compared to radiofrequency treatments, which provide heat-induced skin contraction, Lanluma produces a gradual, natural improvement that continues to develop over months. Surgical arm lifts provide more dramatic results but involve incisions, scarring, and longer recovery. Lanluma offers a middle-ground solution for those seeking subtle, effective, and non-invasive tightening.
9. Will people notice that I’ve had a treatment?
One of the benefits of Lanluma is its natural-looking results. The improvements develop slowly, making the skin appear firmer and smoother without sudden or obvious changes. Most people will notice the subtle difference in their confidence and the way their clothes fit, but it is unlikely to be immediately apparent to others unless they are specifically looking for it.
10. Can I combine Lanluma with other treatments?
Lanluma can often be combined with other aesthetic treatments to enhance overall results, such as skin boosters, laser resurfacing, or body contouring procedures. However, combining treatments should be discussed during a professional consultation to ensure safety and optimal timing. The practitioner will consider your skin condition, health, and aesthetic goals before recommending any combination plan.
Final Thought: Achieving Natural Arm Firmness with Lanluma
Lanluma provides a gradual, non-surgical approach to improving the firmness and texture of upper-arm skin by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. It is especially effective for mild to moderate skin laxity, giving natural-looking results without the downtime or risks of surgery. Many patients appreciate how subtle yet meaningful the improvements can be, making it easier to feel confident in short sleeves or sleeveless clothing.
If you’re considering a Lanluma clinic in London, you can contact us at the London Medical & Aesthetic Clinic for a personalised consultation. Our team will assess your skin, explain what results you can realistically expect, and create a tailored treatment plan to help you achieve smoother, firmer, and more resilient upper arms.
References:
1. DE Fontes, M., Mohanty, R., Rivkin, A. P. et al., 2024. Safety and effectiveness results of an innovative injectable poly‑L‑lactic acid‑based collagen stimulator (Lanluma®): clinical outcomes at 9 months in a post‑market study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39228358/
2. Smith, A. J. and Jones, B. L., 2009. A randomized evaluator‑blinded multicentre study comparing injectable poly‑L‑lactic acid (PLLA) versus human collagen implants for nasolabial fold correction: long‑term follow‑up to 25 months. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 11(3), pp. 122‑129. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0190962209009621
3. Hernandez, R. et al., 2022. Poly‑L‑lactic acid filler increases adipogenesis and adiponectin in aged subcutaneous tissue, promoting dermal thickness and collagen synthesis. Polymers, 17(13), 1826. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/17/13/1826
4. Martin, P. et al., 2023. Clinical experience of poly‑L‑lactic acid injections for body contouring and skin‑quality improvements: a prospective series of 20 patients. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 22(4), pp. 789–796. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33830621/
5. Lee, S. H. and Kim, H. D., 2008. Nonsurgical rejuvenation of the aging face with injectable poly‑L‑lactic acid for restoration of soft tissue volume: two‑year follow‑up. Dermatologic Surgery, 34(5), pp. 543–550. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21239677/
