Stretch Marks

How to Prevent and Treat Stretch Marks during Pregnancy

2009-05-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

Stretch marks are actually little tears in the tissue beneath the skin surface caused during pregnancy, due to the body's inability to deal with the natural weight gain. This weight gain causes the skin to stretch. Specifically the stretch marks are caused because the body can't produce enough collagen to repair the skin.

Some skins have a better capacity to stretch than others, so pregnancy does not necessarily mean you will get stretch marks. Also by using aromatherapy oils you can minimize the scarring and speed up the skin’s healing process.

With a little care stretch marks can be very mild or completely prevented. The best way to prevent pregnancy stretch marks is using a stretch mark cream. Getting regular massages on your arms, legs, breasts and abdomen with a special stretch mark cream is by far the best way to keep stretch marks away.

Aromatherapy stretch mark oil

Add three drops of frankincense and three drops of tangerine oil to a carrier blend of 2 fl oz (50 ml) of avocado oil and 2 fl oz (50 ml) of wheatgerm oil. Frankincense has a rejuvenating effect on your skin and tangerine oil is rich in vitamin C helps to maintain your skin’s elasticity.

Start using this blend from the beginning of your pregnancy, paying special attention to your breasts, tummy, hips and thighs. Massage it gently into all those areas at least once a day. A good time to do this is at night, after your bath, when your skin is soft.

Apart from this, follow these simple tips to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy –

1. A quick weight gain will increase the chance of stretch marks. You need to eat correctly during your pregnancy.

2. Keep well hydrated during the pregnancy. As this will keep your skin hydrated and gives it more elasticity.

3. Exercise during pregnancy, this keeps the muscles toned and keeps the skin flexible.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
By: Nick Mutt

Stretch Mark Information and Solutions

2009-05-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Stretch marks (or striae as they are referred to in dermatological terms) are caused when an individual's skin is stretched too quickly: More accurately, the skin is torn rather than stretched. They are most common around the stomach area, breasts, thighs and hips. Both men and woman can suffer from them and they affect the majority of the adult population. Fortunately, for all of us, they pose no health risks and are simply a cosmetic concern. Of course, these concerns grow in the warmer seasons as the amount of our bodies we show, increases.

This stretching occurs when the body grows at a rate that the skin cannot keep up with. They are most commonly associated with pregnancy but are also a normal part of puberty: Body building or quick weight gain can also result in stretch marks.

Although the skin is usually fairly elastic, when it is overstretched, the normal production of collagen is disrupted. It is this collagen which keeps skin tight and supple. There are several external factors which affect the skins natural ability to produce and maintain collagen levels such as a persons diet and smoking.

These collagen levels also affect the appearance of wrinkles and lines in the face. They also largely dictate how other blemishes, such as acne scars, heal.

When they first form, stretch marks appear as reddish purple lines. They appear indented and maintain a different texture to the surrounding skin. Over time, the discoloration does subside, turning lighter and less noticeable. The ability to heal however does vary considerably from individual to individual.

There are several methods of tackling problem stretch marks. These vary widely in both cost and effectiveness. They range from simple solutions such as creams and lotions, up to more extreme and expensive methods such as laser surgery.

What all these solutions have in common are that they assist, in one manner or another, the body’s own natural ability to heal itself. The skin is the largest organ in our body and anyone who has ever cut or scraped themselves, would have seen how it heals itself. Our natural defensive mechanisms are indeed one of the most wonderful things in nature.

Where our bodies do fall short, is that these natural defences do not account for our ongoing desire for aesthetics and looking good. It is here that nature needs a little helping hand. Fundamentally, to overcome this problem, we need to promote what happens in our bodies naturally, but stops once the body deems itself healed. By effectively extending the healing process, we can “trick” the body into healing itself too much - This way it may look and feels as though no physical trauma ever occurred.
By: Christopher Evans

All About Laser Treatment for Stretch Marks and Abdominoplasty

2009-04-25T19:35:00.000-07:00

Abdominoplasty and laser treatment for stretch marks are two of the most sought after methods to eliminate stretch marks. If you're trying to choose between the two procedures, you should first compare them with each other for you to come up with a more informed decision.

What They Are For

Laser treatment for stretch marks is a relatively new area in cosmetic surgery. Some critics feel that there is a need to study laser treatment for stretch marks further before it can be considered a valid procedure for stretch mark elimination.

Although it is not a procedure for stretch mark removal, abdominoplasty has been around longer than laser treatment and is also used as method for cosmetic surgery. People who want to get a tummy tuck simply want to get rid of a few extra stubborn fats on the tummy that do not respond well to dieting and exercise. The removal of stretch marks is simply an added bonus.

Before the Procedure

Tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a more risky procedure and it is even considered as a major operation. Your surgeon may require you to undergo some extensive preparation. Your doctor will first spend some sessions with you discussing the procedure, risks and more importantly, assessing your validity as a candidate. You may also have to spend some time being medically counseled about your decision to undergo abdominoplasty.

Compared to tummy tuck, laser treatment is less invasive as a procedure and may even be done by your dermatologist.

Who Are Candidates

For abdominoplasty, candidates should be close to their ideal weight and must only have a certain minimal fat to be removed. They should also be physically and emotionally stable and should have realistic expectations. Sometimes a tummy tuck may not be able to remove all the visible stretch marks. It is also understood that the procedure will leave you with a big external scar.

The best candidate for laser treatment for stretch marks is someone who has fresh stretch marks that are still colored pink or purple. Mature stretch marks may not respond to laser treatment for stretch marks. Some experts also say that there will still be visible streaks but will be less obvious.

Recovery

Compared to abdominiplasty, laser treatment will require less time for recovery. The procedure involves little pain and no external scars at all. Abdominiplasty on the other hand is a procedure that may require weeks of recuperation. You may also experience some swelling and pain on the treated area.

What Are the Side Effects and Risks?

Compared to abdominaplasty, laser treatment has only very little known side effects. A little temporary reddening of the area may be the only thing you have to endure. In the hands of an incompetent practitioner however, you might suffer from minor tissue injury.

Abdominoplasty may open you up to more side effects and risks. Aside from the swelling and pain, you are also at risk of infections and irritations. A slip from your surgeon may also result in organ damage.

Cost

Laser treatment for stretch marks is considerably less expensive than abdominoplasty. Costs for laser treatment for stretch marks may range anywhere from $400-$1500 while abdominoplasty costs may range from $5,000-$9,000.

By: Maia Pells

Five Myths About How to Eliminate Stretch Marks

2008-06-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

With the many ineffective methods to eliminate stretch marks, its easy to understand why people can lose hope. Before you pick a method however, it is well worth your time to first check what works and what doesn't.

Myth #1: There are many medical procedures for stretch marks elimination

Currently, only abdominoplasty is the only known surgical method that works on the condition. This method however will only remove marks in the tummy area and is very risky and expensive. It is not even originally intended for such purpose but for extra fat removal. Only those who are close to their ideal body weights and have only a little fat to remove are considered good candidates for abdominoplasty.

Other medical procedures include dermabrasion and laser treatment. As most people would know however, dermabrasion is simply a more complicated form of exfoliation which is only a marginally effective method. Laser treatment on the other hand is a new method that does not have a long and proven track record in removing it.

Myth #2: Getting a tan can get rid of the marks.

Because of silvery color, most people have the misconception that they can cover up stretch marks with a tan. This however, will only serve to worsen the whitish appearance of stretch marks as the surrounding healthy skin darkens in color. This is because stretch marks are scars and if you've ever tried to tan a scar, you would know that they are particularly resistant to color changes. Most of us also know that tanning is not always very safe.

Myth #3: Using make-up to cover stretch marks.

Make ups are not treatments. These products do not remove the scars but just mask them. This may be a good technique but only for a limited time. Even the most water resistant make-up will eventually lose its grip at the beach or in the water.

Myth #4: Weight loss can solve stretch marks.

There are some people who believe that since gaining weight caused the condition, losing weight can remove it. As scars, they will stay put even if you manage to agreed thin. You may however, be able to reduce your chances of getting it if you have never been overweight to begin with. A healthy diet and exercise can keep you from rapidly expanding in body size.

Myth #5: Stretch mark product is the answer to the problem.

The reason why creams have received a lot of criticism is because there are really a lot of products out there that cannot effectively solve the problem. These products put a bad name on reputable brands.

Make sure to read product specifications, ingredient content and instructions for use to get the best out of your lotion or cream. If you have very sensitive skin, you would do better with an all natural product that will not expose you to dangerous side effects.

Men's Stretch Marks and Removal Options

2008-04-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Maybe people think that stretch marks are only a woman's issue. That is not true. Stretch marks are a problem for both men and women alike.
Stretch marks are simply a form of scarring on the skin, usually associated with sudden weight gain and stretching of the skin. They result when the dermis, the layer of skin directly beneath the epidermis, is torn due to rapid stretching of the skin

Although, stretch marks are usually associated with obesity, men often get stretch marks from weight lifting or a sudden growth spurt. They can appear on their arms, legs or back and can be very noticeable.

If left alone, some will fade over time but not completely disappear. If you want them gone, there are three main removal options available to men: surgery, bleaching agents, and Trilastin.

Depending on where you stretch marks are, plastic surgery can be one option. However, this can be expensive and risky. Due to the placement of the marks, surgery may just make it worse.

There are also bleaching agents that lighten the skin around the stretch mark to make them less visible. These must be repeated on a regular basis and you must avoid tanning or it will lose effectiveness.

Most men, however, prefer another option from EA Research called Trilastin SR. Even if your scars have been there for years, many men find it can successfully greatly reduce or even eliminate the marks and costs much less than surgery.

No matter what method you choose, it is important to know that men can get rid of their stretch mark problems for good.

by Monica Cameron

Stretchy subject - Alternative Paths - caring for stretch marks

2007-07-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

"Stretch marks are a delicate topic," says Lynne Vertrees, spa director for the Lake Austin Resort in Austin, Texas. "It's a more open [topic] with women who have been pregnant, but if it's because of weight gain we tend to shy away from asking about it." Such reserve is unfortunate because there is a lot of misunderstanding about stretch marks. Far from being a condition exclusively affecting mothers-to-be, people are also susceptible to stretch marks (i.e., straie distensae) if they rapidly gain or lose weight. This includes bodybuilders--especially those using hormone-replacement drugs, like steroids--and fast-growing adolescents.

Adding to the confusion surrounding stretch marks are the inflated treatment claims of products on the market. Medical researchers do not know exactly why people develop stretch marks. Thus, any product claiming to prevent or eliminate stretch marks is fueling unrealistic expectations. However, there are a number of treatments available to minimize their visibility if you already have them, says David Pollack, who studies stretch marks and ways to treat them at Clinical Results, a Fort Worth, Texas-based contract laboratory.

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are scars. Although their cause is unknown, it is thought that a lack of support in the dermis, the skin's middle layer, leads to a collagen build-up in over-stretched tissue. The results are pink or purple lines that fade over time and become shallow white scars. This transition is important since older scars are more difficult to treat, according to Dr. Candido Fuentes-Felix, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Huntington, New York. How quickly stretch marks fade depends on your age and fairness of skin. The younger and fairer you are, the slower the process.

If you're concerned about stretch marks, several treatments are available. Keep in mind, the following treatments only serve to minimize the appearance of stretch marks and not preclude them.

What are the treatment options?

Topical Treatments

Lotions marketed as stretch mark treatments are typically alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) formulations or topical vitamin solutions. AHA removes the top layer of skin cells, allowing newer, healthier skin cells to surface. This also allows moisturizers to better penetrate, further softening and smoothing the skin. These lotions work gradually, therefore it is important to routinely apply them. Although your skin may initially feel rough and dry, it will feel more pliable over time. However, if you discontinue the treatment, the effect will be lost.

Many vitamin-based lotions repair the damage caused by free radicals (i.e., atoms or molecules with unpaired electrons). Free radicals have been implicated in a host of health problems, including aging and sun-damaged skin. By reversing the damage caused by free radicals, vitamins A, C and E topical formulations smooth the skin, thus diminishing the appearance of stretch marks.

Surgical Treatments

To reduce the depth of stretch mark scars, doctors can employ surgical procedures that scrape or peel off layers of skin. For example, microder-mabrasion blasts away the top layers of the skin with fine, sand-like particles. Similar results can be achieved through chemical peels and laser techniques. In all cases, the limitation in stretch mark treatments is the depth to which skin can be removed without leaving a scar.

When stretch marks are in their pink or purple stage, pulsed dye lasers can eliminate the coloration, though they won't change the depth of the scar. Due to the risk of permanent discoloration, this technique is not recommended for dark-complexioned individuals.

Nutrition and Exercise

Improving muscle tone and reducing body fat will firm areas affected by stretch marks and reduce their visibility. However, "Dieting for weight loss can adversely affect your skin's health by depriving the body of nutrients," says Janee Steinberg, a Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based dermatologist. Steinberg recommends a diet rich in vitamins A, C (i.e., fruits and vegetables), D (i.e., milk and cheese) and zinc (i.e., meat, fish, nuts and beans)--all nutrients that promote healthy skin.

Proper hydration is also important. Drinking six to eight glasses of water per day will keep skin pliable and resistant to damage, such as stretch marks. Remember, soups, juices and seltzers also count toward this quota, but coffee, tea and cola consumption should be limited.

By: Michael Billings

Mbt Shoes and the Cellulite Fight

2007-06-07T01:48:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the new cellulite fighting shoe? They are MBT shoes (also known as Masai Barefoot Technology). You might be wondering how can shoes fight cellulite? I asked myself the same question and decided to do some research on this wonder shoe and the causes of cellulite. Together, I found that this may not be the solution for cellulite we all hoped for. Here's why:

What Causes Cellulite?

Cellulite is primarily caused by genes and this is why it affects mostly women. Because men and women organize fat differently; most men don't develop cellulite. Unlike women, men organize their fat smoothly underneath their skin. This is because the connective tissue which holds their superficial fat runs parallel to their skin.

Women's bodies organize fat in connective tissue that runs perpendicular to their skin. This creates a "pulling down" effect that creates bumps in the skin's surface or what you see as cellulite.

Now what we know what causes cellulite let's understand why it is so hard to remove.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is superficial fat. That is fat which is located just underneath the skin. This area is the last to be affected by diet or exercise which is why weight management and cellulite reduction are two separate issues.

The fact that cellulite is superficial fat makes it so hard to remove. Today there are many alternatives to remove fat that is located in the deeper tissues of our body. Some options are liposuction, diet, and exercise. Most people assume that cellulite is like the rest of the fat in our body and think it can be reduced by traditional methods. They are wrong. You need specific cellulite treatments to remove cellulite.

Now let's see whether MBT Shoes are an effective cellulite treatment.

MBT Shoes and Cellulite

Before I discuss whether the MBT Shoes work to fight cellulite lets consider the factors that make an effective cellulite treatment. An effective cellulite treatment must target cellulite. This sounds simple, but many so-called cellulite treatment don't target cellulite but other fat in the body. Remember, cellulite is a special type of fat: superficial fat.

Therefore, cellulite treatments that really work must target superficial fat in the body. Effective ones I know of are mesotherapy, endermologie, and acoustic wave therapy.

How Do MBT Shoes Work?

The science behind MBT shoes is quite simple. They work by simulating barefoot walking and help you use muscles you normally don't use. Developers claim their shoes help work to melt fat, reduce varicose veins, cellulite and more. But where's the proof?

There have been some studies to test the alleged benefits of MBT but none involved treating cellulite. In fact there has been no published data to back these claims and most evidence is largely derived from testimonials. Because this information is based on testimonials alone, it's what scientists call "anecdotal data," or information that can't be tested or confirmed. Anecdotal data are highly subjective and unreliable.

Reflecting on the factors needed for an effective cellulite treatment the MBT shows none. How do they target superficial fat? It may sound reasonable to believe that the MBT shoes work to melt fat in the body because of the workout you get when walking but remember this fat is not cellulite. So if you are considering buying the MBT's to treat your cellulite think again. Your best bet are cellulite treatments which target superficial fat.

By: Roselee Stehle

What Is Microdermabrasion

2007-05-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

While you might have heard about skin dermabrasion, you may be asking "what is microdermoabrasion?" This treatment is an alternative to the more rigorous and harsh skin treatments previously available and it is rapidly gaining popularity among those who want great results without having to suffer through weeks of unsightly skin. Here we will discuss the basics of what is microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion is similar to dermabrasion, but much gentler. It uses a crystallized cream containing aluminum-oxide crystals to gently abrade the skin and remove only the outer layers. This cream is most often applied with a battery-operated tool that has interchangeable heads, a scrubbing brush, an applicator, and a sponge. These help lightly "sand" the affected skin, remove it and then soothe it with a gel or cream designed to stimulate cell growth.

What is microdermabrasion effective at treating? This new method of improving problem skin is very useful for virtually any surface problem. It has been proven effective against fine lines and wrinkles, age or liver spots, mild sun damage and also surface scars, such as those caused by acne. It can also reduce or even eliminate stretch marks and large pores. Many people are turning to microdermabrasion for minor problems instead of resorting to the major process of chemical peels or regular dermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion has many benefits over the more standard, invasive techniques previously used to treat similar problems. For one, it has virtually no recovery time, you can do it on your lunch break and go right back to work afterwards. You might be a little red, but the slight discomfort experienced during the procedure shouldn't affect you once it is over. You will probably even have your co-workers wondering what is microdermabrasion, eager to try something so simple.

By now, you are probably wondering "what is microdermabrasion NOT good at?" While very effective against surface problems like little scars and uneven skin tone and texture, microdermabrasion is not meant for deeper treatments. Even for such disorders as acne scarring or stretch marks, you may need repeated treatments in order to get the results you want. This can end up being nearly as expensive (though not as painful!) as a regular dermabrasion treatment.

If you were asking, "what is microdermabrasion?" you now know. Deciding whether or not to choose this treatment over regular skin resurfacing methods is really a matter of personal preference, budget and pain tolerance. Microdermabrasion might just be for you!

By: Rob Sanders

Bodybuilder: You Must Avoid Getting These

2007-05-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

Some bodybuilders can get something which you would usually hear only women talking about after fast weight gain due to pregnancy. However bodybuilders can also suffer the same affliction. What is this problem? Well it's stretch marks, and bodybuilders can get them from bulking up too quickly from doing lots of weight training. These blemishes can be a real pain, especially when you are trying to look as good as possible, and if you are competing they can be a big downfall for you.

What Are Stretch Marks?
As a human you have three layers of skin, these are the hypodermis, dermis and epidermis. The layer in which stretch marks occur is the dermis layer. Most of the time your skin has sufficient elasticity in it to be able to cope with your growth, unfortunately, during major growth spurts, such as during puberty, pregnancy and rapid muscle growth, you overcome your skins elastic potential. This causes the elastic fibres of the dermis to rupture, thus causing the stretch marks.
Bodybuilders get stretch marks by building muscle mass to fast and thus putting on weight too quickly. To some extent they will disappear eventually. However when they first appear, the stretch marks can appear in a range of colour from pink to brown, and also darker shades of purple. In time your stretch marks will gradually become less noticeable and fade to a lighter colour. Often this will be a few shades lighter than your normal skin colour.

How To Stop Stretch Marks
There a number of creams and products available that claim to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, however a lot like wrinkle creams, few if any actually do any good or work. There are other solutions which are believed to work such as fish oil and vitamin E; however, you're probably better going without. If you are serious about bodybuilding and bulking up BIG, then you should really take preventative measures to stop stretch marks appearing in the first place.

Prevention Tips
There are a number of ways to prevent getting stretch marks, primarily by building yourself up slowly and not trying to get massive fast. Slow and steady wins the race. When you are building muscle, try to lose weight at the same time, as to some extent this will help balance for some of the muscle growth and reduce the stress on the dermis. If you smoke, quit. As smoking reduces the elasticity of your skin, plus it is really bad for your health and training efforts. As an extreme measure you can get your stretch marks reduced by laser treatment, but you should speak to your doctor about this and only consider it if they are really bad.
By: Bob Giddy

Teen Stretch Marks

2007-05-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

The teen years can be a very difficult period. Your body undergoes some significant hormonal changes that can wreak havoc on your daily life and consequently your level of confidence. Many teenagers experience sudden growth spurts while these hormonal changes are taking place. At the end of a growth spurt you may notice tiny lines on your skin. Teen stretch marks are very common and unfortunately can cause many teenagers sleepless nights. Fortunately there are products available on the market to diminish your stretch marks and help to restore your self-confidence. The best solution to teen stretch marks is the same for adults--time. There are a variety of products on the market, however, that are marketed as weapons against both adult and teen stretch marks. If you want to give them a try, you should first discuss the matter with a dermatologist. Some products on the market that treat stretch marks are potent and can cause damage to young skin. Once your dermatologist gives you the OK to try the solutions on the market, it is a good idea to get started right away. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to treat the skin condition.

Author: Nicky Pilkington

Tummy Tuck: The Post-pregnancy Answer?

2007-05-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

Getting your body back to normal after a pregnancy can be a tricky business. When it comes to stretch marks and loose skin, there is no real effective method of treatment other than the surgical option of an abdominoplasty, a.k.a. a tummy tuck. Your skin is capable of expanding to accommodate a gradual weight gain, but when you are pregnant, it must expand relatively quickly to accommodate the growth of the baby. Consequently, the deeper layers of skin may tear forming thin white lines across your stomach. You may become frustrated (to say the least), and many women experience a big blow to their self esteem. However, a tummy tuck can remove most stretch marks and tighten any loose skin. In fact, deciding to go for a tummy-tuck seems a reasonable course of action considering that 130, 000 tummy tucks were performed in the United States in 2005.

Before jumping onto the tummy tuck train, some important issues should be considered. A tummy tuck requires invasive surgery; therefore information on the matter should be gathered in order to determine whether or not it will truly benefit your life.

Tummy tucks can leave permanent scars
The surgery will leave a scar that runs from hip to hip, unless you have decided on a mini-tuck, in which case the scar will be about 6 inches long. A scar can take up to 9 months to fade, and until then, it will actually appear to worsen. However, the incision is made along natural creases in your skin, and is easily covered by underwear and bikinis.

Tummy tucks can cause problems with future pregnancies
Most surgeons will advise their patients to wait until after their last pregnancy before undergoing abdominal plastic surgery. The body's expansion during a pregnancy can cause the stomach muscles to separate again; so if you are planning more than one child, it is best to put the tummy tuck on hold.

Tummy tucks are not magical
If you are unhappy with the look of your body, a tummy tuck can be a step in helping you to achieve your ideal figure. However, because of its highly invasive nature, you must be prepared to take good care of your brand new tummy. The recovery time can take up to 3 weeks. You must protect your stomach from the sun before going under the knife. Smokers will need to put away their lighters for 2 weeks before and after the surgery. Exercise can help speed up the healing process (although not immediately after the surgery). A healthy diet is important as well, but nothing too severe as your body needs the appropriate nutrition in order to properly heal.

Do some research
It is important to choose a surgeon who is properly qualified. Not only must he/she be board certified, but also certified by a reputable board. Start by looking into the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Also verify that your surgeon is qualified to perform several kinds of abdominal plastic surgery and not just tummy tucks.

If a full traditional tummy tuck seems too daunting, and/or too expensive, you could opt for a mini-tummy tuck. The surgery is less invasive, recovery time is shorter, and the scar is smaller. It is worth a consideration if you are unhappy with the post-pregnant state of your body.

Author: Melanie Pitre

5 Helpful Tips For reducing Stretch Marks

2007-05-04T00:59:00.000-07:00

You've got stretch marks and don't know what to do about them. It's also too late to take preventive actions to avoid stretch marks in the first place. If you are in this situation, you have plenty of company. Millions of people have developed stretch marks for a number of different reasons, but reducing the stretch marks on their bodies has become a priority for them.

Your Options to Reduce Stretch Marks

There are a number of actions that can be taken to reduce the appearance of these unsightly skin defects. As you probably know, stretch marks commonly develop on certain areas of the body, such as your hips, abdomen, and thighs. To a lesser degree, they can also develop on the upper arms, sides of the breast or behind the knees.

For the most part, stretch marks cannot be totally removed without taking a more radical approach to treating the affected skin. Most individuals opt for the more practical and affordable treatment options by using various crèmes and lotions. This approach can be very effective in fading or lessening the effect of your stretch marks, without breaking your budget.

Tips for Reducing Stretch Marks

So what can you do to reduce stretch marks and their physical appearance on your body? Follow these five tips for reducing stretch marks and you should see a dramatic difference in your skin's appearance:

Avoid Sudden Weight Gain or Loss

As a preventive measure, you should avoid sudden weight gains or losses, as your skin cannot adjust quickly enough to avoid skin damage, or stretch marks. Even though your skin has elasticity properties, it really has limits. A sudden change in weight, such as pregnancy, can exceed the skins ability to stretch or flex. When this happens, tears will occur in the skin, and the resulting scarring gives the appearance of white, red, or purple lines. If you moderate the rate of weight change, your odds of reducing stretch marks are greatly enhanced.

Exercise "Smart"

If you exercise frequently, you want to be sure to exercise "smart". When you overdo and expand muscle mass, such as in weight training, you risk overstretching your skin and developing stretch marks. Take your exercise seriously, but be smart and recognize that moderation is key to avoiding stretch marks.

Apply Skin Moisturizing Lotions

You can use a good quality skin moisturizer as not only a preventative, but also as an aid in minimizing or fading existing stretch marks. Damaged skin can and will heal if given the proper care. A quality skin care product, preferably using natural botanicals and herbs, can help reduce stretch mark damage if used in a regular skin care program.

Opt For Cosmetic Surgery

A more radical approach to eliminate stretch mark damage is to opt for cosmetic surgery. Because of the risks involved with this procedure, it should only be pursued if other alternatives do not produce satisfactory results. This procedure can permanently remove your stretch marks, but is very expensive and does have inherent risks.

Get A Tan To Hide Stretch Marks - NOT

Many stretch mark sufferers believe that getting a tan at the beach or at their favorite tanning salon is an acceptable method to reduce the appearance of their stretch marks. The truth is that this option does reduce their appearance, but the amount of UVB rays that your skin will absorb can be dangerous, and ultimately cause skin cancer. This method is clearly not worth the risk - avoid it!

As you can see, with a little common sense and regular skin care, you can effectively reduce your stretch marks and their unsightly appearance. Imagine the enjoyment you will experience when you don't need to be embarrassed about going to the beach anymore, or wearing that revealing evening gown at your next special event. If you follow these five easy tips, you will be well on your way to feeling better not only about your skin, but yourself as well!

Author: Bill Wilson

Stretch Marks

2007-05-03T00:43:00.000-07:00

Stretch marks are a form of marking on the skin with a silvery white hue. Stretch marks are mostly associated with pregnancy, obesity, bodybuilding, puberty, and intense physical activity. Between 75 and 90% of women develop stretch marks to some degree during pregnancy. People who are obese often have stretch marks. Bodybuilders are prone to getting stretch marks because of the rapid body changes that bodybuilding can produce. Stretch marks also may occur if a person uses steroid-containing skin creams or ointments (such as hydrocortisone) for more than a few weeks, or has to take high doses of oral corticosteroids for months or longer.

Stretch marks are effect of an elevated level of circulating glucocorticoids throughout the bloodstream. Glucocorticoids is a hormone which secreted by the adrenal glands (they lie on top of the kidneys). It becomes elevated during pregnancy, adolescence, with obesity, weight lifting and Cushing’s disease. The glucocorticoids hormones responsible for the development of stretch marks affect the dermis by keeping the fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers, necessary to keep quickly growing skin taut. This creates a deficiency of supportive substantial, as the skin is stretched and leads to dermal pulling.

Human skin has three different layers: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the subcutaneous stratum (innermost layer). Stretch marks occur in the dermis, the resilient middle layer that helps the skin retain its shape. Stretch marks happen when the tissue under the skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching. Then, scars called stretch marks may form.Stretch marks first appear as reddish or purple lines, but tend to gradually fade to a lighter color. At first, stretch marks may show up as reddish or purplish lines that may appear indented and have a different texture from the surrounding skin

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body. They are most likely to appear in places where larger numbers of fat is stored. Most usual places are the abdomen (especially near the belly-button), breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs (both inner and outer), hips, and backside. They pose no health risk in and of themselves, and do not compromise the body's ability to function normally and repair itself.

Treatment

Various treatments are available for the purpose of improving the appearance of existing stretch marks, including laser treatments, dermabrasion, and topical applications (e.g. cocoa butter). A certain procedure for removing lower abdominal stretch marks is the tummy tuck, which removes the skin under the belly button where stretch marks frequently occur.