What should you know about loose body skin?

Loose skin may affect the arms, abdomen, thighs, breasts, neck, or other folds. Collagen and elastic fibres provide structure, while changes in body volume can leave the envelope of skin with less support. Genetics, age, sun exposure, smoking, and hydration influence texture. It may be mainly an appearance concern, but folds can also rub, trap moisture, or make movement and clothing uncomfortable.

Keep weight stable when possible, moisturise dry areas, use sun protection, and keep skin folds clean and dry. Resistance exercise can support the shape beneath the skin. A dermatology or plastic-surgery consultation can compare observation, energy-based tightening, thread-based procedures, and surgery; each suits different amounts and locations of excess tissue.

Book a clinical review for persistent soreness, cracking, odour, recurrent fold infections, bleeding, or a new one-sided change. Seek urgent care for rapidly developing swelling, severe pain, fever, or a wound with spreading redness.

Ask which areas need treatment, whether a rash or another condition is present, what improvement each option can provide, how many visits may be needed, and how results and complications are monitored.