In our last post, we touched on how losing weight is great but can often leave behind saggy, unwanted skin that takes time to bounce back. We also highlighted some important factors and revealed a few simple things that can be done when wondering about how to tighten loose skin after weight loss.

Today we provide a few more tips that’ll help you to firm up that skin once you slim down to your goal weight…

STAY OUT OF THE SUN

The human body needs about 5-10 minutes of sunshine each day. That’s because the UVB rays in sunlight boost the production of vitamin D in the body, which basically helps to keep us healthy. Overexposure, on the other hand, is very bad for the skin, and you may want to limit your tanning sessions in the future. Besides the risk of skin cancer, spending too much time in the sun makes the skin loose and less elastic, which isn’t what you want when trying to tighten loose skin after weight loss.

WASH OFF THE CHLORINE

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and a great way to lose weight. The chlorine that is found in swimming pools, however, can make your skin dry and lose elasticity. This will make it harder to tighten loose skin after weight loss. If you swim regularly for fitness, get into the habit of showering after you get out of the pool. Hot water is known to wash away the natural protective oils of the skin, so opt for lukewarm showers instead. You can also use special skin cleansers to neutralize the chlorine effects.

WATCH OUT FOR SULFATES

Although most people don’t know it, sulfates (detergents) are used in many personal care products (especially the cheaper lines) such as soaps, shampoos, and body wash since they clean well and produce a nice, thick lather. The problem with sulfates is that they also tend to strip away moisture and protective barriers, which irritates and dries out the skin. If you want to tighten loose skin after weight loss and retain its natural glow, pay a little extra and buy sulfate-free products from now on.

SIT TIGHT, AND YOU’LL WIN THE FIGHT

As mentioned previously, it takes time for your body to adjust to weight loss—particularly when it’s sudden and significant—and your skin could take months to return to its original shape and size. Don’t get impatient and rush off to see a surgeon once you notice that flab; give it a chance. Apply the tips that we’ve given you (preferably all at once) here, see if that works, and continue to diet and exercise!