Skin Firming Lotion

Why We Use Skin Firming Lotion

Cellulite is nothing new; in fact, it's an age-old skin care concern that has plagued women for centuries. It often results in skin that takes on a dimpled look, and is occasionally referred to as cottage cheese skin.

The introduction of the skin firming lotion is a dream for women who wish to take a proactive stance in the battle against cellulite. While it is common knowledge that dieting alone does not eliminate or reduce the appearance of cellulite, a healthy eating plan, a regular exercise regimen and the addition of a firming lotion may help.

Firming lotions are formulated to moisturize, soften, tone and improve the skin's elasticity. It is recommended that the lotion be applied primarily to the following areas, which are considered the "danger zones" most commonly afflicted by the effects of aging:

• Thighs
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Upper Arms
• Stomach

Common Firming Ingredients

Most of the major names in the skin care industry offer their own versions of skin firming lotions. Typically, they share at least several of the same ingredients. Common ingredients found in the basic firming lotions are:

Shea Butter

This rich, organic moisturizer has gained immense popularity in recent years. It protects the skin while softening, increasing natural moisturizing capabilities, maintaining suppleness and preventing environmental damage.

Collagen

Promotes the skin's strength and durability, resulting in firmness. The deconstruction of this important protein in the skin's natural state is greatly responsible for the aging process, thus it is important to replenish collagen to the skin regularly.

Elastin

Enriches the skin while encouraging elasticity and restoring moisture to dry, sagging or aging skin. The addition of elastin is responsible for the skin's smoothness and resilient quality.

Vitamin E

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, vitamin E is a strong antioxidant that promotes supple, smooth skin. It also prevents damage to the cell membrane in the tissues.

Seaweed Extract

Also known as "fucus vesiculosus extract," seaweed extract is perhaps the most noteworthy and powerful of all firming ingredients. This anti-inflammatory hydrates the skin and is an essential element in the battle against aging skin.

Choosing the Right One for You

Your skin might be unique, but the selection of skin firming lotions is relatively straightforward. What this means for you is simple: choosing the right moisturizer will likely be easy. The following lotions have hit the skin care market in recent months and are considered the cream of the crop.

Jergens Skin Firming Daily Toning Moisturizer

Great for sensitive skin types, this dermatologist-tested formula contains seaweed extract and rich moisturizers. It works to improve the texture of the skin while reducing the appearance of cellulite. It has a mild, pleasant scent that fades quickly.

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Skin Firming Lotion

If you like a little sweetness in your body products, you'll love the decadent chocolate aroma that emanates from this lotion. With nourishing ginseng and vitamin E, this surprisingly non-greasy formula is formulated with Palmer's signature cocoa butter.

Philosophy Amazing Grace Perfumed Firming Body Emulsion

It might be a mouthful, but don't let this moisturizer's name stop you from indulging a little bit. At $34, it's more costly than drugstore brand lotions, though fans of the aromatic Amazing Grace fragrance won't bat an eye. This lotion contains vitamins C and E to purify the skin. It is formulated to revitalize the skin while boosting the spirit with its light, airy scent.

Nivea Body Skin Firming Moisturizer Q10 Plus with Advanced Q10 Complex

According to Nivea, two weeks is all it takes to reap the benefits of this exclusive formula. Apply this in order to replenish the skin's natural co-enzyme Q10 complex, which works to maintain the skin's firmness and elasticity.

Vaseline Intensive Care Active Firming Deep Smoothing Lotion

Aging skin requires special treatment. Vaseline's complex lotion provides just that, offering a powerful cocktail of ingredients that includes collagen, pro-retinol and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 5. In addition to its anti-wrinkle properties, the lotion also diminishes other signs of aging, such as dark spots, dullness and dryness.

Where to Purchase

Firming lotions are readily available at drugstores and grocery stores nationwide. Upscale versions, such as Philosophy, are available at the following online boutiques:

• Nordstrom
• Sephora