Be proud of your achievements but seek help if you need it
Loose skin can be a sign of the hard work you've put into your weight loss journey. But if it's affecting your self-confidence and body image, there are ways you can cope.
Published: December 2024
Review date: December 2027
There are many reasons why you might develop loose skin. But for people who are on weight loss journeys, the timeframe of your weight loss and the length of time you were overweight can contribute to changes in your skin.
If you’ve lost significant amounts of weight over a short period of time, you may develop loose skin. Your skin loses its elasticity faster than in people who lose weight gradually.
The longer you have been overweight, the more likely it is that you will experience the loss of proteins called collagen and elastin. They are important for maintaining the suppleness of your skin.
Living with loose skin can cause physical and emotional discomfort. This is because it can cause chaffing and rubbing, which can be irritating. It can also change your perception of yourself.
If you’re struggling, it’s important to seek help. Your GP will be able to listen to your concerns and refer you for specialist treatment to address any physical and mental health issues you might have.
You can also try to practice self-gratitude. If you’ve been working towards your weight loss goals, you have achieved a lot. Acknowledge this and how far you’ve come. You can also self-refer for therapy if you need professional support.
Although your loose skin might not go away completely, there are ways you can improve its appearance. Strength training will develop your muscle mass. This can change the way your loose skin looks.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also be beneficial. The NHS recommends drinking between 6 to 8 glasses of fluid every day.
But if your loose skin is affecting your everyday life, surgery might be an option that you can pursue. Speaking to your GP will help you understand whether you are eligible for it. Since the procedures to remove loose skin are often classed as cosmetic, you might not be able to get them on the NHS.
There are ways you can boost your self-esteem if you’re loose skin is affecting your life
Dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. But remembering that your current appearance is a result of the effort you’ve put into making positive changes in your life is crucial.
Finding and following other people who live with loose skin on social media platforms or online can also help boost your confidence. When you can recognise the achievements of others and celebrate them, you can do this for yourself. This is an important part of body positivity.
Your commitment to live a healthier life should be something that you regularly acknowledge. But if you need support, your GP, therapist and even family and friends can be there for you.