How to Properly Deal With Loose Skin

To properly deal with loose skin, it is crucial to understand what causes it. Loose skin is often the result of weight loss¹, pregnancy, or aging. When the skin is stretched for prolonged periods, the collagen and elastin fibers that provide structure and support can become damaged. As a result, the skin may lose its ability to snap back into place, leading to looseness and sagging. Loose skin can be a nuisance; thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help deal with loose skin.

Stay Hydrated by Drinking Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your skin—and your overall health, for that matter. Your skin will have a plump, healthy appearance when adequately hydrated. Not to mention, water helps to flush out toxins that can damage skin cells. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day or more if you can.

Use a Good-Quality Moisturizer

When your skin is dry, it can exacerbate the appearance of loose skin. To help combat this, make sure to use a good-quality moisturizer. Look for a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, a substance that holds 1000 times its weight in water. This will help plump up the skin and give it a more youthful appearance.

Laser Treatment

One potential treatment for loose skin is laser therapy. This type of therapy can help tighten the skin and promote collagen production². There are various laser treatments available, so it is vital to read more about skin tightening before choosing a treatment. You can find this information by researching online. However, be sure to compare information and only read from reputable sources. It is also important to consult a dermatologist to see if you are a good candidate for laser therapy.

Use Retinol.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that helps to stimulate collagen production. This can help to improve the appearance of loose skin. Look for a retinoid cream or serum that contains retinol, and apply it to the skin a few times per week.

Exfoliate Regularly.

Exfoliating helps to slough off dead skin cells that can make skin look dull and dry. It also allows moisturizers and other treatments to penetrate the skin more effectively. It also promotes cell turnover, which helps to improve the appearance of loose skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub a few times per week, or try using a dry brush.

Eat Healthily

Eating a healthy diet is vital for overall health, but it can also help improve the appearance of loose skin³. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain nutrients that promote skin health, while processed foods and sugary foods can contribute to the formation of wrinkles⁴. To help improve the appearance of loose skin, aim to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help to support healthy skin.

Undergo Surgery

If you are dealing with a significant amount of loose skin, surgery may be an option. Various surgeries can be used to treat loose skin, so it is essential to consult with a surgeon to see if you are a good candidate. Surgery is usually only recommended for people who have loose skin due to weight loss or pregnancy. It is important to note that surgery is a major procedure and comes with several risks. Be sure to research all of your options before making a decision.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise isn’t just good for your physical health—it can also improve the appearance of your skin. When you exercise, you increase blood flow and promote collagen production. This can help to improve the appearance of loose skin. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days per week.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to loose skin, these tips can help you get started on the right path. Be sure to consult with a dermatologist to determine which treatment is best for you.

1. Allison, D. B., et al. “Weight loss increases and fat loss decreases all-cause mortality rate: results from two independent cohort studies.” International journal of obesity 23.6 (1999): 603-611. ↩︎
2. Koya-Miyata, Satomi, et al. “Identification of a collagen production-promoting factor from an extract of royal jelly and its possible mechanism.” Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry 68.4 (2004): 767-773. ↩︎
3. Ruff IV, Paul G., et al. “Safety and Efficacy of Renuvion Helium Plasma to Improve the Appearance of Loose Skin in the Neck and Submental Region.” Aesthetic Surgery Journal (2023): sjad055. ↩︎
4. Jin, Lihua, et al. “Bifurcation diagrams for the formation of wrinkles or creases in soft bilayers.” Journal of Applied Mechanics 82.6 (2015): 061008. ↩︎

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by ayeshayusuf