If you've had a baby or are just prone to weight gain in the tummy area, then you'll know how disheartening it can be to do crunches, sit-ups and other belly tightening exercises, often to no avail. A novel skin care product that claims to help flatten your tummy, without any exercise had me sitting and taking notice. The manufacturers of this latest magical tummy tightener may be on to something...

The Claims  

The new potion is advertised as containing a revolutionary formula with stomach flattening micro fibers that help slim and visibly tighten the abdominal area. According to the manufacturer's website, it's "clinically proven to reduce the abdominal area by up to 2 centimeters in 8 weeks." The cream must be applied twice daily for 2 months and contains fig extract and neuropeptides that apparently break down fatty cells and boost cell metabolism. 125 ml (4.2 oz) retails for around $150. While the pricing is a fraction of what you'd pay for a surgical tummy tuck, it's certainly not cheap.

The Ingredients  

Fig extract is rich in vitamins and minerals and there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that it can help to rejuvenate the skin, but no clinical studies to back up any claims. Neuropeptides have been shown to boost collagen production, and their use makes sense in minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. However, how much benefit this will deliver to a saggy skin condition is unclear.

Does It Work?  

One reviewer claimed that she felt an instant tightening effect, but beyond this, there was scant evidence of any other success. In order to help you decide if this new product will deliver results, it's important to remember that a flabby gut may be caused by excess weight, flaccid muscles or a loss of collagen and elastin. While you can lose weight and do exercises to firm up the area, it's difficult to do much to eliminate saggy skin as a result of substantial weight loss, such as that associated with pregnancy. Collagen and elastin are responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity and while some ingredients can help to boost their production, it's unlikely that they will help to remedy a saggy skin condition to any great significance.  

The Verdict

Skin care products that make claims with little to support them in the way of scientific evidence can be found everywhere. And by targeting skin conditions with few available solutions, they appeal to thousands of women. Based on current clinical evidence, topical treatments that claim to tighten and firm the abdominal area don't make sense. Be a savvy consumer by trying to exercise and lose weight first. And if you can afford it, save up for surgery. Your bank account won't miss this latest potion.

Sharmani Pillay is a Registered Pharmacist who specializes in anti aging skin care and women's wellness. She owns and operates an online skin care store at [Link Removed].

Pharmagirl, Your links have been removed, please consider upgrading to premium membership.