How to tighten your skin naturally

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 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 to 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 the elasticity of such.

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 to the massage your favorite essential oils diluted in a carrier oil and inhale them to reach new levels of calmness

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 sun bathing. This goes for tanning beds as well, as the rays can dry out your skin and damage the skin cells at the same time (you can also watch this video to see what the sun really does to your skin). Also, limit your time swimming in chlorinated water, as the chlorine can dry out and damage skin cells. Spending a short amount of time sun bathing and swimming is alright; just be sure to shower afterwards 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 bike, 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. While 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.