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Stretch marks, the fine lines or scars on the skin, can be the
worst nightmare for anybody. But appearance of stretch marks
depends on the elasticity of your skin. It can also be a matter
of genetics. If your mother or sister got stretch marks during
their pregnancy, you are more likely to get them. However, it
will depend on how fast your skin gets stretched.
Cause of stretch marks
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on your body where skin is
stretched, or overstretched. The normal production of collagen
gets disrupted and as a result stretch marks appear. They are
most likely to appear in the places where fat is stored - the
abdomen, breasts, upper arms, thighs and buttocks. These marks
are not harmful. These are simply cosmetic issue, and needs to
be treated accordingly. Though stretch marks are common in girls
and women, men get stretch marks too. Obese people,
bodybuilders, and people who use steroid-containing skin cream
can get stretch marks.
Ways to get rid of stretch marks
Unfortunately, there is no permanent solution of stretch marks.
However, you can reduce their appearance by not gaining too much
weight and with proper preventive measures. The earlier you can
detect them - when they are pink or reddish brown - the more
likely you are to diminish their appearance.
Here are some general ways to get rid of stretch marks:
Apply cocoa butter into the stretch marks. Massage with vitamin
E oil into the stretch marks, especially after shower. Apply
tretinoin cream after consulting your doctor, since this cream
is available by prescription only. Eat foods that are rich in
vitamin A, E and C. You can take supplements along with your
regular diet. However, pregnant women should have this after
consulting their doctors. Eat foods that are rich in zinc, and
silica. These are good for skin and help form collagen, the
supporting fibers in the skin. Eat foods that contain essential
fatty acids. For example, vegetables, vegetable oils and fish
oils. This will help make cell walls.
The best way to get rid of stretch marks is visiting a
dermatologist or plastic surgeon. These doctors can actually
help you with various treatments like actual surgery, and laser
treatment that diminish the appearance of stretch marks.
Be careful during your pregnancy
Pregnant women are more prone to get stretch marks since they
suddenly put on weight. This happens because elastin and
collagen fibers become dehydrated and tear. Make sure you are
applying moisturizer on your stomach regularly during pregnancy.
Creams like Retin-A can help removing the stretch marks.
However, going to a dermatologist is the best option.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is one of the best options to remove stretch
marks. Different types of lasers will be used depending on the
color of the stretch marks. One type of laser reduces the color
of dark stretch marks while another stimulates the production of
pigment-making cells in already faded stretch marks. A newer
type of laser therapy can be used to stimulate the production of
collagen and help restore the skin's elasticity in depressed
stretch marks.
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