Stretch Marks

Stretch marks appear as lines in the skin, sometimes thin, or wider, depending on the rate and how much the skin was stretched. These lines can appear red or purple when they're new, and fade to white or an almost silvery color as they age. Some stretch marks almost disappear with time. While stretch marks are by no means a threat to ones health, they can be a concern for some people. Stretch marks are unsightly, especially in new or freshly stretched skin. There are body makeups and some self tanning creams and sprays can be used to cover up the appearance of stretch marks.

Most pregnant women get stretch marks from the rapid growth of their bodies. In fact, about ninety percent of pregnant women notice the appearance of stretch marks during the last few months of pregnancy. Sometimes, in these cases, stretch marks fade and disappear very quickly after the baby is born.

People with obesity often have stretch marks. Body builders, and people who've used creams with steroids present for long periods of time are also more prone to stretch marks. It is often seen in puberty for both young women and men, but most of the time fade with time. Excessive weight gain is the most common reason for stretch marks.

Stretch marks will fade with time, but they never completely go away. It is important to begin treatment of stretch marks to make them less visible when they are fresh, and still red or purple. When the affected area begins to flatten, stretch marks become less evident and are more difficult to treat.

Stretch marks, if treated early, can be made less visible and even somewhat prevented. Massaging oil or moisturizer rich in Vitamin E can help with healthy circulation and keep skin smooth and supple. A healthy diet, rich in Vitamin E and A will help keep the skin elastic. Continuous healthy dieting and regular exercise also decrease the chances of developing stretch marks. Prescription creams that have tretinoin or retin A in them are effective to treat and prevent stretch marks, but can not be used if pregnant or nursing.

People whose weight doesn't fluctuate or who don't bear children are less likely to receive stretch marks. Those who have children, or who have trouble maintaining a steady weight have more trouble. Some people have weaker collagen than others, and are more prone to stretch marks. Body builders often notice the appearance of stretch marks on the upper arms, chest, and thighs. Adolescents or young men and women will often notice them on the back, resulting in a series of thin, horizontal lines.

Lasers can be used to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. They work by burning off the top layer of skin and evening it out. This causes very minimal pain, but is quite costly. There is no sure way to eliminate stretch marks, but this technique, makeup, and creams and lotions can help minimize the appearance.