Nagging Stretch Marks

How terrible it feels when after months of exercise...the short sleeveless dress still needs to be avoided or covered because of the stretch marks…

But thankfully, there are solutions to avoid and cure this. Themedguru.com lists out the solutions for this extremely nagging problem.

What Causes These Ugly Marks?
Stretch marks (dermatologically known as stria) are a kind of scarring that appears on the skin. They are caused due to the tearing of the dermis layer of the skin. In the beginning they might appear purple in color, then slowly they lighten. But they do not disappear and are a cause of a lot of embarrassment.

Stretch marks are commonly found on the areas of the body, which have more amount of fat stored in them. Areas like abdomendefine (around the belly), breasts, upper arms, thighs and hips. They however, do not have any adverse affect on the health of an individual. Stretch marks are caused due to a sudden stretching of the skin. For example, puberty, pregnancy or muscle building exercises can cause stretch marks.

Halt Their Formation

Stretch marks are very difficult to remove, so it is always advisable to prevent them from appearing. There are a number of products available in the market that can be used. Most people trust natural remedies for preventing stretch marks.

If you are gaining weight or planning a pregnancy, start softening the skin by using cocoa butter, oil and cream massages. Oils such as coconut oil or olive oil help in softening the skin and preparing it for the stretch that it will face. If you are planning to buy an oil from the market, buy one that has Vitamin E, elastin also if possible.

Around 75 to 90 percent of women develop stretch marks when pregnant. The stretch marks start appearing around the sixth or seventh month when the skin is stretched the most. Using the oils and creams can prevent it.

In a research conducted by experts, it was found that the daily use of a cream containing “centella asiatica”, vitamin E, and elastin could help in preventing the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy.

How to remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks cannot be removed completely. They can only be lightened and that too takes a lot of patience and time.

1. Oils can be used regularly to gradually lighten the marks.
2. In a study published in the “Dermatologic Surgery”, it was seen that radiofrequency together with dye-laser treatment, gave very good results in reducing stretch marks.
3. Laser treatments are recommended by beauticians where the skin is peeled off removing the stretch marks.
4. A recent treatment known as “Fractional Laser Resurfacing” has also been known to cover up stretch mark by producing collagen through laser.
5. Steroids, if taken regularly can cause stretch marks. Consult a medical practitioner before taking these medications.
6. Drinking a lot of water helps the skin in remaining hydrated.
7. Caffeine can cause stretch marks
8. Intake of a lot of fatty food items like fish, dairy items can also result in stretch marks.

Stretch marks do not harm us in anyway except that they do affect our appearance. They can certainly be a nuisance if you end up having a wardrobe malfunction while hiding these marks. Prevent them as much as possible, and if unavoidable, treat them naturally.