How to firm up the belly skin?
As summer approaches, the question ‘how to firm the belly skin?’ comes up more and more in conversations and online searches. What are the causes of loss of firmness in this area and how can we fight it? We have put together some tips!
Lack of firmness in belly skin – causes
What determines that some people enjoy bouncy, firm skin, while others complain about a lack of it? Typically, there are several causes for this. Among the most popular we can mention:
Age
As we get older, collagen level in our body decreases. Together with the loss of this protein, our skin becomes less firm and less moisturised, which contributes to a reduction in skin tone. The problem does not only affect the abdominal area. How can you combat this? The best way is to use a dietary supplement with a high dose of collagen, which after about three months – combined with a rational diet and exercise – should bring quite good results!
Rapid weight loss
Rapid weight loss can largely result in flabbiness and sagging of the skin. The body is unable to handle the rapid loss of weight, so the skin – especially around the abdomen – can look unattractive and simply sag – even though you have successfully lost the excess weight. Remember that the appropriate rate of weight loss is 1 kg per week. If in doubt, ask a dietician for a suitable menu.
Lack of exercise and inadequate diet
Physical activity is extremely important for the firmness of the skin – not just that on the abdomen! Inappropriate diet and a sitting lifestyle simply make us gain weight so that we can stop looking after firm thighs, buttocks and a tight abdomen. There is no need to convince anyone that even small modifications (bicycle instead of car, stairs instead of lift) can help achieve good results.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes and the stretching of collagen and elastin fibres during pregnancy can affect the loss of firmness of the skin ( they may or may not – this really is an individual issue here). How to firm the belly skin after pregnancy? There are several steps to take here – starting with moisturising the skin with the right products, exercising and following a balanced diet. Gentle massages can also be helpful. Caution: After pregnancy, start carefully and consult your doctor about any plans for physical activity!
How to firm up the belly skin – tips:
Choose regularity!
The key to success is – as in most cases – regularity! The struggle for firm skin is not just a brief impulse, but a long-term plan of action and a small step technique.
Physical activity
The best exercises for the abdominal muscles are tummy tucks, plank and scissors. When performed correctly at least three times a week, they will reduce body fat and increase muscle mass. This will make the belly skin more elastic and firm. When you don’t have the time or inclination to do tummy tucks, go for a long walk or hop on your bike!
Hydration and proper diet
Drink at least 2 litres of water a per day. Proper hydration will make not only your abdomen but your whole body smoother and more elastic. Try to consume products rich in protein, whole grains and vegetables. The right amount of vitamins and micronutrients will have a positive effect on the condition of the whole body.
Showers
When in the shower, change between hot and cold streams alternately. This will stimulate your circulation and keep your abdomen elastic. You will also strengthen and nourish your blood vessels. Remember that your skin does not like too frequent hot baths. When you are wondering how to firm the skin on your abdomen, it is better to give them up in favour of quick showers.
Sponge massage
Along with alternating showers, it is a good idea to give your abdomen a massage. There is no need for an expensive brush – a simple sponge with a roughened tip will do. Each time you do this, massage for a few minutes. The skin will become smoother and visibly firmer.
Good sleep
Lack of sleep and excessive stress have a very negative effect on mental and physical condition. It is all caused by the stress hormone cortisol. The right amount of sleep, a proper diet and avoidance of stressful situations will have a positive effect on the tone and appearance of the skin – not only on the abdomen.
How to firm up the belly skin? The matter is neither too simple nor too complicated. What counts are: regularity and awareness of the fact that it is best to act multidirectionally, i.e. to combine diet, physical activity and body care with massages and supplements. A comprehensive approach will bring us closer to our desired goal!