What We’ll Cover:

• What factors contribute to loose skin?
• Impact of exercise on loose skin
• Managing discomfort
• Emotional and mental health impacts
• Excess skin removal

Losing weight is a big achievement. If you're using weight management medication and losing weight quickly, you might notice some loose or extra skin. This is very common and nothing to be ashamed of.

Many people are surprised by how their body changes when they lose weight. This can include excess skin around the tummy, arms, or thighs, where skin may not tighten as fast as the weight comes off.

Why does loose skin happen?

Your skin stretches when you gain weight. If you lose that weight quickly, it can result in excess skin.  

The amount of loose skin someone has depends on:

• Genetics - everyone’s body is different
• Age - skin gets less stretchy as we get older
• Sex - skin changes can be different for men and women
• Previous weight changes - if your weight has gone up and down before
• Total weight lost - greater weight loss can lead to skin changes
• Muscle tone - more muscle can help your skin appear firmer

Can exercise help?

Loose skin is normal after weight loss, but building muscle can help. It won’t remove the skin, but it can make it feel tighter and reduce sagging.

The NHS guidelines for adults aged 19‑64 include that adults should do strengthening activities working all major muscle groups at least two days per week.

You don’t need to go to a gym. Try simple resistance exercises at home, like:

• Using tins or water bottles as weights
• Doing wall push-ups
• Squats or sitting and standing from a chair
  
  

Start slowly. Moving your body in a way that feels good for you can help build strength and confidence.

What can help with discomfort?

Loose skin can sometimes feel sore or irritated, especially when it rubs during movement. You might find it helpful to:

• Wear supportive clothing or compression garments
• Use creams or lotions to stop skin from getting sore - your GP or pharmacist can help with this

If you have itchy or broken skin, speak to your doctor. They can recommend the right treatments to help.

Emotional impact

Loose skin can sometimes be hard to accept. Some people feel low or upset about how their body looks after losing weight.

If you're feeling this way, you're not alone. Talk to your GP or clinical team. They can help you find the right support. What you’re feeling is valid - this journey can be emotional and bring up unexpected feelings. 

Can it be removed?

Some people think about surgery to remove loose skin. This may be only possible in special cases and depends on local resources. Current guidelines advise that you need to:

• Keep your weight stable for a long time
• Have a body mass index (BMI) below a certain level
• Show that the skin is causing you physical or mental harm

Your GP is the first person to speak to about this. They can help guide you through the next steps. Many people choose to pay for this surgery themselves, as NHS approval is rare and takes time.

You’re doing something amazing for your health. Loose skin is a part of that journey for many people. With the right support, you can feel more comfortable and confident in your body.

If you're ever unsure, your clinical team and your GP are here to help.