Losing weight is a big accomplishment, but the way skin responds afterward can be surprising. Sagging, dryness and changes in texture often show up just as the pounds come off. To get the best insider advice, we asked leading experts to share the tips and treatments they give their patients to help keep skin firm, smooth and healthy throughout the process.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Dr. Julie Russak is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Fernanda Heckman is a licensed aesthetician at SkinSpirit in Brentwood, CA
- Dr. Marths Viera is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami
- Dr. Lesley Clark-Loeser is a board-certified dermatologist in Davie, FL
Expert: New York dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD
Tip: Wear sunscreen daily.
“Skin-care products can’t restore fat to areas that have lost it, but they can help protect what’s left. I tell my patients that daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Look for SPF 30 or higher with antioxidants and humectants, so you’re both preventing UV damage and supporting hydration.”
Expert: New York dermatologist Julie Russak, MD
Tip: Prioritize key ingredients.
“After weight loss, skin isn’t just loose. It’s biologically depleted. That’s why I prioritize retinoids and peptides, which keep fibroblasts active and rebuild structure. Pair those with antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione and hydrating ingredients like ceramides and multi-weight hyaluronic acid. This way you’re addressing both the signals for collagen and the skin’s barrier at once.”
Expert: Fernanda Heckman, aesthetician at SkinSpirit Brentwood
Tip: Be consistent.
“Patients are always surprised that simple consistency makes the biggest difference. I love Skinbetter Science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum ($195) because it brightens and protects, and Plated INTENSE Serum ($258) because exosomes really help with repair and firmness. And every single patient leaves with Colorescience Flex SPF 50 ($58)—it evens tone while protecting, which is the most important step.”
Expert: Miami dermatologist Martha Viera, MD
Tip: Support the skin barrier.
“Peptides, vitamin C, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and retinol should all be part of a post-weight-loss routine. These ingredients work together to restore hydration, stimulate repair and protect the barrier. The key is introducing them early, especially for patients on GLP-1s, since studies suggest collagen and elastin production can be affected.”
Expert: Davie, FL dermatologist Lesley Clark-Loeser, MD
Tip: Incorporate body care and maintain muscle tone.
“Before and during weight loss, fortify your skin with retinoids, peptides, growth factors, even topical estrogen if appropriate. That keeps fibroblasts active and helps prevent crepey texture later. I often recommend Epicutis Lipid Body Treatment ($225) or Alastin Transform ($220) to smooth and support the body. And don’t overlook muscle stimulation. Devices like EmSculpt NEO and EmFace restore tone that’s lost when lean mass declines.”
Expert: Dr. Russak
Tip: Use injectables that stimulate collagen.
“The earlier we stimulate collagen and support the extracellular matrix, the better we can prevent long-term laxity. Collagen stimulators like Sculptra or calcium hydroxylapatite, combined with radiofrequency microneedling or ultrasound, restore volume and remodel support. If you’re already noticing sagging or hollowing, that’s when professional treatments should come in.”
Expert: Dr. Viera
Tip: Understand it’s a combination approach.
“For tightening, I rely on Sofwave ultrasound or Morpheus radio-frequency microneedling. For resurfacing, erbium laser works beautifully. And for biostimulation, I like Sculptra paired with strategic filler. The biggest mistake is waiting too long. Patients need to adjust their routine early and combine skin care, nutrition and treatments to really restore firmness.”
