Treating Yourself Better post WLS

[planetheather 137]

I mentioned this in a response to a different thread but it made me curious about what ways you guys have noticed that you have started "treating yourself better" either post WL or post WLS. In the past I don't think I felt I was treating myself "bad" but there were a number of things that I just didn't bother with--probably thinking along the lines of "lipstick on a pig".

My example is that I never really bothered about beauty products--I treated dry skin like a medical condition and got the industrial stuff from Walmart. I know I didn't enjoy rubbing lotion on my huge belly or thighs. Now, it's become a daily+ ritual and not only do I enjoy my new contours, I've noticed that my skin (everywhere) looks younger. I even indulge in moisturizing bath bombs (when I'm in a country where I can get warm water). My favorite haunt for new items is Lush and I love that I can carry most of their stuff in my carry on (their moisturizing bars are solid).

What ways have you found that you "treat yourself" now that your body image has changed?

[McButterpants 2,846]

I think this will be an interesting thread - thanks for starting it!

I am like you...I didn't like the thought of slathering lotion all over my body prior to surgery, but I do daily now and it feels good!

I also find myself not wanting to leave the house without make-up - this was a thing prior to me gaining all my weight. I don't wear a lot, but before I gained all this weight, I would put on foundation and some eye-liner. I'm finding myself already doing that again. (My husband commented that it was nice to see me wearing make-up again and on my "big hair".) And it's funny that I really didn't realize makeup and hair was important to me again

I am also "nicer" to myself. I haven't had those moments of calling myself disgusting or that negative self-talk. I think that makes me a happier person. I mean, if you don't like yourself, who will, right?

[reading mom 85]

I was determined to lose as much weight as I could pre surgery. So I began a low carb diet Jan 2. One of the strategies I developed when I was craving foods that were not on my diet was to paint my nails. I discovered that by the time my nails were dry enough to eat I usually had the cravings under control. Now post sleeve I don't need that strategy in the same way, but I still enjoy nicely manicured nails and have splurged on my growing polish collection. Also like you I spend more time moisturizing my entire body after every bath. I don't think it's helping with my saggy skin issues, but it can't hurt. I am also taking more care choosing my clothes each day. Even though I don't have as many choices as my sizes are changing, I am making more effort and I think I dress better than I ever have. I am definitely taking better care of myself in many ways!

[planetheather 137]

I am like you...I didn't like the thought of slathering lotion all over my body prior to surgery, but I do daily now and it feels good!

Right! And who knew that I'd enjoy shaving my legs--ever?!

[able2cope 193]

I too am enjoying taking care of my body and face more - I was taking care of my hair also, blow drying it - then some of my 'loose' hairs went right in there and broke it - so now I'm hoping that Santa got my letter in the mail

[southernsoul 773]

I have bad rosacea on my face & pre-WLS I didn't do much about it. I used a cream from the dermatologist, but that's about it. Now that my body is looking better, I'm willing to spend some extra $$ on skin products that will help my face look better. Thanks to another member here who is an esthetician, I got some good advice on products for skin with rosacea. I feel much better about the way my skin looks now.

Also, because I was concerned about hair loss, I decided to stop blowing my curly hair straight & just try to get used to wearing it in it's naturally curly state. I know it looks bigger when it's curly, so I thought that would help hide the fallout when it started. I have invested in some pricier hair products designed for curly hair & have been pretty pleased with the results.

[planetheather 137]

I have bad rosacea on my face & pre-WLS I didn't do much about it. I used a cream from the dermatologist, but that's about it. Now that my body is looking better, I'm willing to spend some extra $$ on skin products that will help my face look better. Thanks to another member here who is an esthetician, I got some good advice on products for skin with rosacea. I feel much better about the way my skin looks now.

I have rosacea too! I have a new lavender cleanser that I think is helping a lot, but nothing dermatologists have offered ever has. Glad to hear you found an esthetician you like!

[teresagroup 3]

I definitely am treating myself better now 2 months out. I lost 65lbs and can reach my feet so I use nail polish and put on lotion to try and minimize excess skin if that's possible. I am trying on clothes now and actually happy when I look into the mirror. I still have 100+lbs to lose but I am happy right now.

[LouiseC 1,031]

This was me also.

I am now very focused on looking after myself inside and out! A few months ago I started IPL treatment for problem facial hair and the boost in confidence this has given me has been incredible. I don't know why I didn't do that years ago!

I also take better care of clothes. If something gets a pull, a tear, or a stubborn mark then it is gone. Not that I was a slob before, I just didn't pay that much attention.