Excess skin usually occurs in three major categories: 1.) either extreme or rapid weight loss, 2.) effects of old age or 3.) surgery. But the human body is an incredible machine with an equally incredible organ: your skin. And it can bounce back with the proper care. Here are 4 ways to do it (Remember, the key is to start early):
1. Increase your water intake.
Water, water, and more water. Drinking a lot of water not only improves your overall health, it also will help your skin become tighter, smoother, and look more radiant. Be sure to drink at least 6 glasses of water per day. If you can drink more than that, even better. Hydration is wonderful for your skin and certainly helps with its elasticity.
2. Start Getting Massages.
Who doesn’t love a massage? Head to your favorite masseuse to get weekly or biweekly massages, as they are known to help increase blood circulation that is helpful to your skin. To save money, you can have your partner do this for you. You can add your favorite essential oils diluted in a carrier oil and inhale them to reach new levels of calmness
RELATED: Simply Beautiful: 7 DIY Healthy Home Spa Ideas
3. Limit Sun and Pool Exposure.
Too much time in the sun will have a negative effect on your skin’s elasticity, so limit your time sunbathing. This goes for tanning beds as well. The rays can dry out your skin and damage the skin cells at the same time. Also, limit your time swimming in chlorinated water, as the chlorine can dry out and damage skin cells. Spending a short amount of time sunbathing and swimming is alright; just be sure to shower afterward and apply a natural moisturizer that has vitamins and aloe vera included.
4. Tone To Tighten Exercises.
Chances are your belly and arms have some stretched skin if you’ve lost a lot of weight. Tightening the tummy area is much more possible if you take time a few times per week to exercise that area. Commit to toning exercises such as crunches, air bikes, leg raises, sit-ups, side bridges, arm circles and pelvic thrusts. You don’t have to spend a lot of time on these exercises either. Simply spending 15 to 20 minutes three to five days per week will help tighten your tummy, back and arm areas.
**BONUS TIP**: Be patient. Results may not come all at once. Keep a record of your progress so you know it’s happening and don’t get discouraged. The body is an amazing rejuvenating tool that can bounce back, but it does take time.
Natural Facial Masks For 5 Common Skin Problems
Between toxins in the environment, hormones, stress and the hands of time, your face can lose some of its glow. Why not try some tried and true natural face masks to get your skin back into shape?
Head into your kitchen and whip up these natural masks for different skin issues to rejuvenate, repair and replenish the skin you’re in.
Anti-Aging: The Chocolate Mask
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons of oats
- 4 tablespoons of cream
- 1/4 cup of honey
Benefits
Applied topically, chocolate can do more for you than just be a mood booster. Chocolate is also known for its