Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a fact of life for most people.  While annoying, there are clear reasons stretch marks occur and ways to avoid them.  If you already have them, there are also ways to diminish their appearance on your skin. 

After stretch marks appear the skin will, unfortunately, not bounce back to its original state if it has been expanded by swift growth due to weight gain, weight loss, or pregnancy.  It instead becomes embellished by a kind of scarring termed stretch marks, or striae.  Stretch marks usually begin as stripes of red or purple in color.  They then become glossy skin that looks to be variegated in silver or white.   

Stretch marks take place within the dermis, which is the elastic middle layer of the skin that enables it to retain its shape.  If the skin is constantly stretched, however, the dermis will break down causing stretch marks to appear.   

Both women and men can experience stretch marks on several areas of their bodies.  The most prevalent being the stomach area, hips, thighs, breasts, lower back and upper arms.  Luckily, there are now many treatment options for stretch marks.  If you are committed to dealing with unwanted stretch marks, it is important to consent to the care of a surgeon or dermatologist who can then consult with you for your best options.  He or she will take down your detailed medical history and any medications you are currently taking.  In fact, certain medications can actually cause stretch marks and it is imperative that you are open and honest with your doctor.  Some examples of these medications are hormones and steroids. 

Two options your doctor will advise on are dermabrasion and chemical peel.  They can both be used to dissipate the appearance of stretch marks.  There are also many new advances in laser surgeries.  The level of success with any treatment can be affected by your skin tone and type, your age and sometimes even your diet.  It is very important to know that most insurance policies will not include stretch mark removal because it is not a necessary medical procedure.  It is a cosmetic procedure, even if the stretch marks are severe. 

There are also plenty of over-the-counter treatments for stretch marks.  If you are pregnant and concerned with stretch marks as a result of your pregnancy you can advise your doctor so you can begin a preventive treatment before your stomach begins to change shape.  There are many topical creams your doctor can recommend. 

By drinking plenty of water and maintaining healthy skin, you can also prevent and treat stretch marks.  Proper intake of water keeps your skin soft and supple and less likely to develop stretch marks.  Drinking caffeinated beverages can increase your risk of stretch marks, as well.  If you are unable to give up your caffeinated coffee or tea, ensure you balance the consumption with other fluids.  It is important that you drink just as much or more water as tea, coffee or soda.   

Lastly, stretch marks can also be caused by what you eat.  If you have a nutritional deficiency, this increases your chances of experiencing stretch marks.  Consuming foods that promote healthy skin can make a big difference.  Some foods that will help are foods rich in zinc such as fish and nuts, foods rich in vitamins A, C, D (dairy products, citrus fruits and carrots) and high protein foods such as eggs, meats and dairy.