The needle on the weighing scale tipping towards the lower end can get anyone happy. After all, managing to drop even a few pounds is a feat in itself. However, often in the bid to lose weight, we overlook what will follow. One of the consequences of weight loss is loose skin. It not only develops stretch marks, but begins to sag and appears dry and listless.
Is it possible to tighten skin after losing weight? Yes, it is and the measures actually start when you start working towards your goal weight.
No 1: Don’t lose too much fat, too quickly
Crash diets promise drastic weight loss in very short durations. It is promising but definitely not the healthiest way to go about weight loss as it causes the skin to sag. Take it slow.
No 2: Massage and brush the skin
Massaging the body or brushing it with a soft bristled brush or loofah can also help tighten the skin. They get rid of the dead skin cells and also stimulate the cellular structure beneath so as to promote skin regeneration. They also increase blood circulation making the skin firmer.
No 3: Slather skin firming creams
There are a number of skin firming creams and lotions available on the market.
You should always look for ingredients with Vitamin A and E, herbal ingredients namely Aloe Vera and collagen. These ingredients tighten loose and sagging skin by nourishing it and restoring structural proteins such as collagen and elastin.
No 4: Protect your skin from sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun can also cause excessive damage as it robs the skin of the moisture. Always apply sunscreen to the skin before going out in the sun. Limit the amount of time you spend out in the sun and also try as much as possible to avoid chlorinated pools and tanning booths.
No 5: Make sure your skin is well hydrated
It is the moisture in the skin that makes it firm yet supple. You must have minimum 8 glasses of water daily. This applies especially after a workout since you lose a lot of water in the form of sweat.
No 6: Load up on the Proteins
Proteins as you must be already aware are the building blocks of the body. The body uses proteins to repair and replenish itself. It tightens the skin by filling in the gaps left by the burned fat and adding collagen. Besides, proteins will also help sustain weight loss.
No 7: Use wraps and scrubs
Wraps and scrubs work in different ways to tighten the skin. They exfoliate the skin, improve blood flow and stimulate the skin cells. Mineral scrubs and wraps made of natural substances are the best choice.
No 8: Add weight training to your exercise routine
As much as it is important to eat well, it is essential to exercise with greater emphasis on weight training. Weight training exercises build muscle creating a toned and muscular look.
No 9: Eat raw foods
The cooking process destroys those nutrients that are most potent in their uncooked form. Whenever possible eat your fruits and vegetables raw to source these essential nutrients.
No 10: Rub the skin with essential oils
Essential oils such as lavender oil, almond oil and castor oil penetrate the skin and work towards moisturizing it and thereby help to tighten it. Almond oil is also effective in improving the appearance of stretch marks after weight loss.