A firming moisturizer that really works (for me, at least)

It’s no secret that things start to happen around the time we turn 40, and body changes either become more noticeable, or we’re just paying closer attention. Loss of skin firmness is one of them, and a history of weight gain and loss certainly doesn’t help. No matter how toned or fit your muscles may be, the skin above makes somewhat of a first impression—and in the case of my stomach and thighs, everything could be a bit tauter and tighter. I’m not ready to explore professional skin-tightening treatments just yet, which is why I wanted to give Nivea’s Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream a try—and I’m on my second tube.

Working with doctors for so many years definitely trained me to wary of product claims, and anything that says it delivers the results of an in-office procedure (or even a degree thereof) requires realistic expectations. That’s how I approached the Nivea… I need to moisturize, so why not try something that could possibly firm up my skin? No, I definitely don’t look like I got a tummy tuck or a body lift, but I will say that I definitely see some improvement.

Beyond the formula’s Co-Q10, L-carnitine and lotus extract (the ingredients used to improve skin firmness), the lightweight gel absorbs quickly, and it provides a cooling sensation that makes it perfect for summer. It doesn’t leave any greasy residue or make my skin feel like it’s suffocating when I walk outside. I do need to layer another moisturizer over it if I want my bare arms or legs to have a subtle sheen, but that’s obviously no big deal.

As with pretty much any skincare product, consistent use is key for getting the maximum benefits, and now that it’s two-showers-a-day season here in South Florida, I can wait to see what my skin looks like by the time September rolls around!