Loose skin can develop or be worsened by several factors, but few circumstances cause such a drastic change in your body's shape as childbirth. The abrupt shift in body size can be difficult for your skin to handle, and this can cause the skin to hang loosely on the belly. Other factors may contribute to this sagging, but the good news for new mothers is that skin is a highly adaptable part of the body --- there are things you can do to improve the health of your skin and encourage it to return to its natural form, allowing you to regain the shape you had prior to pregnancy.
Step 1
Moisturize your skin at least two times every day. Moisturizing helps keep the skin hydrated, and hydration is key to your skin's elasticity. By locking in moisture, you make the skin better able to gather itself and shrink to fit properly around your belly. The best time to apply moisturizer is in the morning when you wake up and just before going to bed.
Step 2
Drink plenty of water. This helps hydrate the skin from the other end, providing water that is locked in by your moisturizing creams and lotions. You should aim to drink at least eight glasses --- or 64 oz. --- of water each day.
Step 3
Exercise regularly. The movement of exercise can help stimulate the skin and encourage it to reel itself back in close to the skin. Exercise also stimulates muscle fiber synthesis, which can provide new locations for the skin to attach itself and make it easier for the skin to tighten up to the body. Exercise also stimulates sweating, which can promote skin health.
Step 4
Consult a doctor about more invasive treatment options that may allow you to eliminate sagging belly skin. For some women, tightening the skin may prove difficult or even impossible. The only completely effective options may involve plastic surgery, which cuts out the excess skin to tighten the remaining skin against the body. Your doctor will be able to make recommendations on the best course of action for you and your body.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not try to burn your excess baby weight while also trying to tighten your skin. Weight loss will only decrease your total body mass, making it harder for the skin to shrink to the size of your body. Instead, attempt to maintain your body size while tightening the skin, then gradually aim to drop weight.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizer
