Thread: Tummy tightening!

I have had this issue for a while and was wondering if anyone else has experienced this or might have tips.

When I started belly dancing I was really over weight, like over 200 pounds and my waist was over 37". Now I work as a dancer full time and I weigh around 160 and my waist is 28". I find that the skin on my stomach is very loose. Even though I work out a lot it still moves much more than I want it to when I dance. I keep loosing more weight but the problem persists, I am very discouraged. I am afraid that my skin will never tighten up again naturally and I dont want to fix it with surgery :(.

If your weight loss was very recent, there is the possibility that your skin is still adjusting to your new size and may tighten up on its own.

Otherwise, unfortunately, there is really nothing you can do short of surgery for loose skin. Exercise won't affect it. You can, however, utilize powernet torso covers to disguise the issue.

It took a while for my skin to re-adjust after pregnancy, so time may help if your weight has fluctuated recently. I have a friend who tapes hers when she dances- I don't know how difficult or comfortable it is to do, but it makes an amazing difference.

Wait a minute, did you post dance clips recently? Because if I remember right, I take back my post. I think you look fine the way you are.

Also remember to moisturize. A lot. There are even lotions which are purported to help tighten skin.

{{{HUGS}}}

It may get better over time. One can hope, right? Daily vigorous massage and exfoliation can't hurt any... I've taped, it's not difficult. PM me if you want details...

Ive been gradually losing weight for the past 3 or 4 years. In the past 6 months ive lost at least 15 or 20 pounds. Im hoping it tightens up after im this weight for a while.

Ive heard about moisturizer and massage, I will try it!!

I've been hoping for a minor miracle in this department... but I'm past 50. I've lost weight gradually, but the stomach is the "first place I gain, the last place I lose" and has always been THE problem area, as I have no butt to speak of. I've always been an apple, and I'll never be a pear...

i'm currently having the same problem post-baby. i only have 5 or so pounds more to lose but things look really different in the belly area.

Vasha, I would love to help make you feel better but for years I was given false hopes and wasted a lot of time, money and effort on my loose tummy skin. I hate to see the same happen to you.

Fact is, your skin has been damaged - the elasticity has been lost. While your skin tone may improve a little with exercise and the assistance of firming creams, it is not going to change much. It will very likely worsen as you continue to lose weight. If you want the real scoop - have a candid talk with your doctor.

I went the road to surgery and am very happy with my results, but also completely understand that surgery isn't for everyone. My best advice is to try the firming creams, massage, keep fit, find alternative costuming that makes you feel most attractive and learn to love yourself as you are. Odds are you notice it much more than others do. We're our own worse critics and judging by your pictures, I really think this is the case.

On side note - CONGRATS on the weight loss!