Question:
Has anyone used skin firming lotions?

I am pre-op (but planning ahead!). I was thinking I could reduce the yukky loose skin by using the skin firming lotion twice a day starting right after surgery. Has anyone tried this?    — ScottieB86 (posted on November 12, 2003)

November 12, 2003
I have tried the firming lotions. I have not noticed a difference in my skin from them. I think if they do work it is only temporarily. My skin is firming up nicely after being 2 years out and having lsot 200 pounds! My thighs are pretty hopeless, and I may have to have those surgically altered.
   — Eileen H.

November 12, 2003
It's difficult to tell whether or not they have made a difference for me because I don't know how my skin would have reacted had I not used them. I have less saggy skin than I expected to have, so maybe they did. I started using them two months pre-op on my biceps, torso, and thighs. Either way, it can't hurt. I'd recommend it, but can't promise that it will help.
   — Cosmo K.

November 12, 2003
Clarins offers a high-end suite of products designed for rapid weight-loss or post-pregnancy skin care. I regularly use the Firming Bust Gel and the "Huile Tonique", which is an oil you apply all over immediately after showering. Both are excellent and my skin seems to be remaining fairly taut. They're in the range of $40 - $60 per bottle, and can be found at any upscale department store. I've found an online source that's a little cheaper and am happy to pass it along if you want to email me. I also regularly use a salt-scrub body treatment in the shower to keep my skin exfoliated, and try to apply some form of alpha-hydroxy at least once a week. My day spa has some really great body treatments designed for moisturizing/exfoliating and I make a point of going at least once a month - my skin feels awesome and much more resilient after each visit. I also really like Clinique's Water Therapy simply for mosturizing purposes. One key point in ensuring that your skin recovers well vis-a-vis elasticity is staying out of the sun and using strong, high-quality sunscreen when you are exposed to sunlight. My cousin, who is a plastic surgeon and has a lot of experience with gastric bypass patients, said that I'll save myself $20,000 in plastic surgery by strictly avoiding *any* sun damage during this crucial post-surgery phase.
   — Tiffany J.

November 12, 2003
I have no idea if it works but I got some from Bath & Body Works, Cucumber Melon it was like $15 a bottle and they have great sales all the time ......I love the scent & it just makes you smell "clean" so I think a guy or a girl could use it!
   — Saxbyd

November 12, 2003
I just starting working out and using a firming lotion every night after I get home from my workout and am finished showering. I use Avon's Cellu-Sculpt anti-cellulite slimming treatment. I have only used it for three days, but there is already a difference! My husband (who applies it for me) said that my thighs and butt are much less dimpled already and he is amazed at how much my stretch marks have faded. I plan to continue using it everyday! Good luck to you. ~Kristy (lap rny 9/18/03 - 320/279/168)
   — kristynush

November 12, 2003
I used one for a while when I was within the first 5 or 6 months post op. While it seemed to make a tiny bit of difference then, there is nothing but plastics that will help now. The more weight you lose the more dramatic the loose skin becomes. Look at it this way; Do you see a change when you use anti-wrinkle cream on your face? Sure, I do too. How about if the skin on your face was hanging down to your neck?
   — RebeccaP