Treatment for Stretch Marks

If you look in the mirror every day and wish that something could be done about your stretch marks, it is comforting to know that today's technology finally makes it possible to solve them through various treatments for stretch marks.

Stretch marks are wavy lines that cross the body in a clear pattern on the surface of the skin that compete with veins and arteries to be seen. They usually occur because the skin has stretched beyond its limit, lost its elasticity, and collagen production has been disrupted. The loss of elastin and the interruption in collagen production causes the skin to have stretch marks in the upper layer of the skin.

Stretch marks occur in both men and women. The thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen of pregnant women are common areas for stretch marks to become visible. They often get worse with rapid growth, pregnancy, hormones, weight loss or weight gain.

Stretch marks can be caused by some medications, such as cortisone. They also appear when the skin is excessively stretched beyond its limit during pregnancy, growth spurts (puberty), or weight gain. Stretch marks can also be formed in children who have become obese.

Due to constant repetitive exercise, athletes and bodybuilders can also develop stretch marks. It has been suggested that stretch marks are caused by a high level of a hormone called glucocorticoid circulating in the body. This hormone is produced by the adrenal gland and its production increases during pregnancy, adolescence, obesity, and when weight lifting.

Some people may be more prone to stretch marks than others. Skin type can be a factor. For example, drier skin has less elasticity than oily skin and is therefore more likely to develop stretch marks. Stretch marks can also form more easily in skin with a high proportion of cross-linked collagen that occurs in teenagers.

Prevention

Stretch marks can be difficult to avoid during pregnancy and rapid weight gain, however, keeping your skin protected and moisturized is key.