From the Guidelines
After significant weight loss, the best care for facial skin involves moisturizing regularly, protecting against excessive sunlight exposure, and using SPF 30 UVA and UVB protective sunscreen, as well as emollients or soap substitutes. This approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of prevention in managing skin health 1.
When it comes to facial skin care after weight loss, several key strategies can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of laxity. These include:
- Using a gentle cleanser twice daily
- Applying a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid
- Using a moisturizer with peptides and retinol to stimulate collagen production
- Including vitamin C serum in the morning routine to brighten skin and support collagen synthesis
- Always using SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- Considering non-invasive treatments like microneedling or radiofrequency treatments for more pronounced skin laxity
- Practicing facial massage using upward motions to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a diet rich in protein, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin elasticity from within.
It's also important to take steps to avoid dryness of the skin, as noted in another study 1, which recommends using skin moisturizer and taking other measures to protect the skin. However, the most critical and directly relevant recommendation for facial skin care after weight loss is to moisturize regularly and protect the skin from excessive sunlight exposure 1.
From the Research
Facial Skin Care after Big Weight Loss
- After significant weight loss, the facial skin may experience volume deflation and redundant inelastic skin, leading to an accelerated facial aging appearance 2
- A facelift procedure may be considered to enhance the cervicofacial contour and reduce the apparent age, but fully correcting this facial deformity can be challenging 2
- For overall facial skin health, a multifunctional approach including mild cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection is recommended 3
- Studies have shown that a daily facial skin-care regimen comprising a mild cleanser and moisturizer can lead to significant improvements in skin health and quality 3
General Weight Loss and Maintenance Strategies
- Successful weight loss maintainers often engage in high levels of physical activity, eat a low-calorie, low-fat diet, and maintain a consistent eating pattern 4
- A comprehensive approach including reduced dietary intake, regular physical activity, and behavioral strategies is warranted for successful weight loss and maintenance 5
- Intensive lifestyle interventions for weight loss, including a reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and behavior therapy, can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in health and quality of life 6
- To prevent weight regain, a 1-year weight loss maintenance program with at least monthly counseling is recommended 6