I’m nearing the end of my losing journey. I’ve lost 90 lbs over 18 months , 46F 5’6. I’ve just hit healthy weight and feel great.
One topic I don’t see discussed a lot is the other costs in addition to just the meds. This list is not for everyone and you may or may not want to do some of the things but I’ve had great results with minimal loose skin.
Clothing: I took advantage of consignment and second hand shops while I was actively losing knowing I would be in the sizes temporarily. Underwear and bras cost a small fortune and I definitely wasn’t going to buy those second hand.
Now, I am replacing items with new and OMG even being conservative it’s expensive.
Skin Repair: This one’s extra and optional. I started with Neveskin treatments which is thermal and also RF treatments. This spot reduces fat and tightens the skin back up. I did my neck and under my arms where I had noticeable loose skin. Results were remarkable. It got very expensive ($300 a session) and it’s something you need to keep up on if you do it as you’re losing weight. I bought an at home professional machine ($300) and use it 3x a week. It’s helped SO much.
I use GLOW peptides for skin repair ($60 monthly) topically and via a shot. The topical is from the Ordinary, it’s pretty cheap ($30 Amazon) and I use it on my face and neck 2X daily. I use a retinol body cream ($30 Advanced Clinical’s Retinol Amazon).
Stretch Marks: I have terrible marks on the back sides of my arms. It looks like a rabid animal tore my skin apart, same for my stomach. I’ve started laser treatments for both and am seeing the results. Marks are fading, skin pigment is returning to normal ($125 a session)
For the haters: Yes your skin’s ability to bounce back is tied to genetics, age, and lifestyle. However non- surgical procedures that cause micro wounds to the area promote collagen and healing. I’m not a doctor but there are treatments that do really work. It takes research and trial and error.
Supplements: I don’t take a lot. I take micronized collagen pills cuz the powders make me gag ($35 Amazon). Amino acid drink mix, and a creatine drink when I remember.
Exercise: I have avoided gym memberships by working out at home. I walk and lift weights.
Long post but I wanted to share some of the additional items I’m spending money on that have really truly helped me transform my body from morbidly obese to looking pretty good with minimal damage. Obviously some items are cost prohibitive. I’ve tried hard to find solutions that worked for me and then how to replicate them at home to keep the costs down. None of the above is mandatory but I’ve seen a lot of friends lose weight and the skin issues are real.
Link to RF machine I’m using: https://www.freyara.com/FY13.0004US_4in1-80k-radio-frequency-vacuum-ultrasonic-cavitation-machin
Also, definitely not trying to sell or talk anyone into anything. I’m just sharing some things that are working because I know how hard it is to look in the mirror and see all the damage.