Who Are More Likely to Get Stretch Marks and Why?

Stretch marks appear as reddish or purple lines that might turn into light colored lines gradually. Stretch marks are caused by many reasons including the following

  • Rapid weight gain and growth like in puberty
  • Pregnancy
  • Muscle building
  • Hormone replacement therapy for transsexuals

How Do Stretch Marks Occur?

Stretch marks occur in the middle layer of the skin, the dermis, which keeps the skin in perfect shape. Stretch marks can occur in any part of the body and the most likely spots are the abdomen, breasts, upper arm, hips, buttocks and inner and outer thighs. Though these do not cause any health concerns the unsightly lines pose more of a cosmetic problem.

The glucocorticoid hormones responsible for the development of stretch marks hinders the production of collagen and elastin fibers, which are essential to keep the rapidly growing skin taut and in the absence of a supportive material, the skin gets stretched and leads to dermal and epidermal tearing. Though laser treatment is considered as the best treatment to remove stretch marks, if the marks are too deep and have penetrated the dermis, laser will be ineffective in removing them.

Prevention of Stretch Marks

As there is no cure for stretch marks once they set in, it is better to prevent these. Skin care during weight loss regime or pregnancy can reduce the severity of stretch marks. Drinking lots of water will keep the skin supple and soft. A well balanced diet that has all the nutrients will help to maintain the natural elasticity of the skin. Choose deep penetrating body creams and lotions. Coconut oil is a good choice due to its natural healing ingredients.

Regular application of moisturizing cream on the vulnerable spots like thighs and abdomen should be done before and after the weight loss exercises. Pregnant women need to take the opinion of their physician before applying tropical creams and lotions because some women will be sensitive to many ingredients during pregnancy.

Surgical Treatments for Stretch Marks

Though laser treatment cannot remove stretch marks completely it can lessen the intensity of stretch marks to around 50%. The laser rays stimulate the increased production of collagen and elastin in the inner layers of the skin where stretch marks are formed. Lasers are most effective on stretch marks that are not too old and are still red in color. Laser treatment for darker skin types are not generally recommended because of the hyper pigmentation risks of the skin.

Another surgical procedure for removing lower abdominal stretch marks is the tummy tuck, which removes the skin in the navel area where stretch marks occur commonly.

Home Remedies for Stretch Marks Removal

Stretch marks can also be managed with some of the tried and tested home remedies that have been in use for many years. One of the most effective methods is to massage with lavender oil. Aloe Vera gel is useful in lightening the stretch marks and to bring back the glow of the skin. Bringing a qualitative change in the diet you consume also can reduce the severity of stretch marks. Include lots of leafy vegetables, nuts, liver, and diary products.

Last but not least, accept the fact that stretch marks are difficult to remove completely. So, If of you can keep your mind and hands off those lines, you will feel a lot better and happier in life!