One element of weight loss that we don’t usually see in the before and after photos on our Instagram feed is loose skin. While loose skin after weight loss is not something that people often talk about, it is a real problem for those affected, and it can be a real bummer after all the weight loss excitement.
While many assumed that rapid weight loss is a sure recipe for loose skin, that is often not the case. Our skin has an elastic capability, and it can shrink around a smaller circumference after weight loss. But if we do lose a lot of weight after pregnancy and excessive weight loss, saggy skin can be a problem. Furthermore as we age, collagen and elastin production decrease significantly and these two factors combined can also result in loose skin.
Can firming creams tighten loose skin?
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Body firming creams may contain ingredients that hydrate dry skin and as a result, plump it up. However, they do not penetrate the skin deep enough to the part of our body that can trigger a response to tighten loose, saggy body skin.
Can we tighten loose skin without surgery?
A nip and a tuck will get rid of those excess skin but not everyone is ready or open to invasive surgeries.
If you have a lot of loose skin, like those that fold over after a massive weight loss, surgery may be your best bet to getting rid of them. But if you have a small amount of loose skin and getting a painful, invasive surgery is not an option, then there are many non-invasive skin tightening treatment options available for you.
1. Exilis Ultra 360
Exilis Ultra 360 can tighten loose skin on areas like your underarm, abdomen, love handles, buttocks, and inner and outer thighs, and improves skin laxity. It is a non-invasive, no downtime treatment which combines radiofrequency (RF) and ultrasound to stimulate collagen and elastin regeneration to make your skin supple again and lift saggy skin over time.
There is no need to worry about the pain factor when it comes to the Exilis Ultra 360 skin tightening treatment. The treatment just feels like having a warm blanket placed on your body. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the number of sessions you require, and with regular treatments, you should see your skin tighten and lift over time.
2. HIFU
HIFU stands for “high-intensity focused ultrasound” and it is used to tighten loose, saggy skin. The focused ultrasound energy penetrates into our skin, going pass the epidermis and dermis layer to heat up a layer of muscles and connective tissue that is rich in collagen. When this soft tissue is warmed up, collagen is produced, thus firming up loose, saggy skin.
3. RF
RF, just like its name suggests, utilises RF (radiofrequency) energy to stimulate collagen and elastin fibres production in your skin, which will in turn rejuvenate and tighten the skin. The result? Skin that is smoother and firmer.
Speak to your doctor who would be able to help you determine which is the most suitable treatment for you.
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