Stretch Marks

Striae (stretch marks) are the purplish, red or black scars that appear on different areas of the body due to the skin being overstretched.  Stretch marks can occur in either men or women.  They can be the result of going through puberty, obesity, severe weight loss and pregnancy.  

Pregnancy is the one of the most frequent causes of stretch marks.  Even though the skin has its own natural elasticity, the rapid expansion of the skin can break down the dermis (the second layer of the skin) and cause stretch marks.  Pregnancy can add higher emotional stress levels and makes it harder for an individual to feel good about themselves knowing they have stretch marks. 

For some people, the marks will lighten and become smoother over time.  Many people have also claimed that using different kinds of creams and moisturizers can help speed up the healing time.  There are many treatments for stretch marks on the market these days.  Many people find looking for the right one hard because of products claiming to eradicate their stretch marks, but in the long run, it fails to work for them. 

Even though it's tough trying to find the best stretch mark product that's worth the price, there are a few that has a lot of great reviews and praises.  These are very popular, but even though some are expensive, they guarantee you'll have incredible results.  Here is the list of a few popular stretch mark treatments available today:

1) PALMER'S COCOA BUTTER MASSAGE LOTION or CREAM is probably one of the most frequently used stretch mark treatments that people buy.  This cocoa butter product contains a unique blend of ingredients to increase skins natural elasticity, which helps to prevent and diminish the appearance of stretch marks.  The three main ingredients are Vitamin E, Collagen and Elastin.  Vitamin E and Collagen is used to heal the skin and repair it to its natural state.  Elastin is a substance found in the skin that is known to increase the skins elasticity.  This product is clinically proven to reduce and prevent stretch marks.  

2) MEDERMA is another well-known scar treatment.  Doctors and pharmacists rated this as the number one product for scars.  Unlike most treatments, Mederma is a clear gel, which means you don't have to worry about someone else noticing what you're using.  The best part about this product is the fact that it can be used on almost any type of scar to make it smoother and less obvious.  The only problem is the time it takes to start seeing results.  For new scars you should use the product for up to three months.  Old scars can take almost six months.  Overall, this product will deliver what it says.  

3) Lastly we have STRIVECTIN-SD.  This is a great product and well worth its hefty price tag.  This highly concentrated, fast-absorbing formula is made up of a blend of moisturizers, elastins and a compound to help firm your skin.  It is clinically proven that in less than a month you will have a reduction in the appearance of stretch marks.  This product also offers a 30 day money back guarantee.  

Just remember when purchasing any kind of over-the-counter treatments you should consult with your doctor beforehand.