How to Firm Loose Skin After Weight Loss

When a person loses a significant amount of weight (usually at least 50 pounds), her skin will also lose some of its elasticity. Weight gain stretches skin and the subsequent weight loss makes this phenomenon visible to the naked eye. Thus, skin becomes loose and saggy, particularly around the abdomen, thighs and upper arms where most weight tends to accumulate. Luckily, there are several remedies that can firm up your loose skin after weight loss, including exercise, healthy eating and plastic surgery.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Weights Skin-firming lotions

1. Build the muscle under the skin. Now that you've lost the fat, it's time to firm up your muscles. The best exercises involve weight-training techniques such as crunches, push-ups, sit-ups, squats and lunges. Weight-lifting exercises are the best way to build muscle quickly. Be sure to consult a personal trainer before attempting any of these exercises to prevent injury.

2. Eat nutritious foods that promote skin elasticity. Eat lots of blueberries, soy products, strawberries, blackberries and artichoke hearts. These foods contain antioxidants, vitamins and biotin, which are known to improve elasticity and promote collagen production.

3. Get an operation to remove the loose skin. An operation is the best option if you have a significant amount of loose skin that cannot be firmed with exercise alone. Get a consultation with a plastic surgeon to determine if this is the best solution for you. Remember that all types of surgery are risky, so make sure you discuss it with your doctor before opting for this treatment.

4. Wear body-hugging apparel such as Spanx and bustiers or corsets. These form-fitting pieces of clothing actually help firm up loose skin over time. They tighten the skin from the outside and after a few months of use, skin actually becomes firmer. In fact, corsets have been known to make one's waist inches smaller over time.

5. 
    

   Try body and skin firming lotions. These creams help to firm up loose skin after weight loss by boosting collagen production which improves skin's elasticity. Rub the lotions onto the areas with loose skin at least twice a day.

Tips & Warnings

• Try the Jergen's Firming Skin daily moisturizing lotion. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to prevent the sagging skin from coming back. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Keeping your skin hydrated helps to firm loose skin after weight loss.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.

[malonedwards]

on 5/18/2009 good tips! thanks! 5*