Taking Care of Plus Size Skin

Our skin represents the largest portion of our body but other than our face it often goes largely ignored. Being plus size can add additional strain to it with stretching, hotspots and friction so it's important that we take care of it.

After bathing the next most important thing is moisturizing. Your whole body should be moisturized a minimum of once a week. Three to four times is even better. After your shower is best as it helps to lock in some of that moisture your skin absorbed under the water. There are a few areas that should receive some extra special attention.

Decolletage and Breasts

The area exposed to the sun receives the most damage and finding a lotion with sunscreen will not only improve the texture of the skin but reduce sun spots and that crackled appearance that comes with age and repeated sun exposure. This area should be moisturized daily like our faces but because the skin is different than our faces we should use a moisturize that is heavier and can penetrate the thicker skin.

The breasts add a lot of weighted tension to the skin and while you can't necessarily prevent stretch marks you can reduce their appearance and make the sensitive skin that results from them more comfortable by applying lotion to them. It is important to not overload with moisturizer to the area where the bra band sits. Wipe off excess and make sure this area is dry and lotion has been absorbed before putting on a bra.

Applying lotion to the breasts daily also gets you accustomed to the texture and weight of your breasts so if a problem arises, like a lump, you'll be more aware of it sooner.

The Belly

I think this is often an area of avoidance for women; part of the out of sight out of mind mentality. We don't like how it jiggles or ripples or folds so we tend to ignore it. We should embrace our bellies. Lube it up with some special lotion and give it the massage it deserves. Because this area can harbour folds it's important to check them out in a mirror to make sure the skin isn't breaking down or if it is to take action. The skin on your abdomen can become very dry and flaky so the best remedy is regular lotion applications (and maybe a little exfoliation with a soft bristle body brush). Again, don't over do it in the folds, wipe off excess and allow it to absorb before dressing. Know what your skin is doing.

Inner Thighs

Depending on your design they may rub together or they may not. Regardless of their makeup they deserve the extra attention. And you might have a little fun while you are there. Keep an eye out for dark purple pimples and treat them with an OTC acne medication before they become inflamed and uncomfortable. If you have thin skin here you might want to try a lighter lotion.

Feet

Your feet are what keep you rooted and moving. A small sore on the skin can quickly become out of hand and so can a little dryness. Try to lube them up every night before bed to keep them soft. If necessary, keep your foot cream by your bed so you remember to do it as you get settled. When you are massaging the lotion or foot balm in your feet look for sores, massage between the toes (often over looked and it feels so good), look for any cuts or abrasions. Use a heavy body cream or a special foot balm for the best results.

If you develop any problems in these areas consult with your general practitioner, dermatologist or foot specialist for treatment. Don't leave things until they've festered so much they are interfering with your activities of daily living.

Here are a few products that have worked for me:

* Glysomed Body Lotion - great for sensitive skin and its scent quickly disappears after application.
* Olay Quench Body Lotion - for special occasions for a little extra lustre.
* Kiss My Face Fragrance Free Olive and Aloe Ultra Moisturizer - environmental friendly, super rich lotion with absolutely no scent.
* Perricone MD Neck Therapy - this is a new product I've tried and am impressed with the results, especially the area between the neck and base of jaw.
* Lavender Foot Butter (http://www.lavenderhills.biz) - it has become my absolute favourite foot treatment. A little goes a long way.

Now go take care of your skin before you go to bed!