New York Natural Birth

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are scars caused by the dermis layer of the skin tearing as a result of stretching. The dermis layer is the middle layer of skin, located between the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and hypodermis (the lowest layer of skin with the main purpose of storing fat) (Fig.1). Stretch marks are visible due to their discoloration and their depressed or raised streaked shape. Stretch marks are usually darker than the natural skin color and raised when they first appear. After about 6-12 months, the discoloration will fade to a lighter shade and the stretch marks will feel and look depressed.

Fig. 1. Wikipedia Commons. Digital image. Skin. Web. 4 Aug. 2005. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Skin.jpg.

What causes stretch marks?

Stretch marks are mainly caused when the dermis layer of skin is stretched. This is usually a result of sudden weight gain or loss. Hereditary genes, hormones, and your health also prompt stretch marks. Stretch marks do not affect everyone; however, 70% of female teens, 40% of male teens, and 75-90% of pregnant woman will develop stretch marks.

Can stretch marks be prevented?

Stretch marks are not preventable; no studies have ever proven any treatment avoids stretch mark development. However, there are ways to minimize the amount and size of stretch marks you may develop.

1) Keep your body lubricated. Be aware that stretch marks will usually start to appear in the sixth month of pregnancy. Be sure to moisturize your body twice a day (especially during this period) or as much as needed.

2) Certain ingredients in moisturizes have better results for minimizing the quantity of stretch marks. Be sure your moisturizers contain vitamin E and/or Gotu Kola. There are other oils and vitamins on the market (such as cocoa butter) that may also work, but have not been substantially tested. Just be sure to do your research when selecting moisturizers.

3) Make a healthy choice when choosing your moisturizer. Use moisturizes that contain natural ingredients and not harmful toxins. Avoid mineral oils, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, etc... These are harmful to the skin and to you in general.

4) Healthy skin starts on the inside. Be sure to eat a balanced, healthy diet, drink lots of water, and take supplements. Certain supplements are shown to increase the health of your skin. Primrose oil, fish oil, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E are some of the most recommended.

5) Exercise your body. Exercising increases blood flow and oxygen to your skin, giving it the nourishment it needs.

Can you minimize the appearance of existing stretch marks?

Yes, there are several ways to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. Topical treatments are the most common. Click on the products link for a list of a few highly recommended creams. Other treatments that help to minimize the appearance of stretch marks are laser surgery, dermabrasion, endermologie, and prescription retinoids. Whichever treatment you decide to use, make sure to research possible side effects and the percentage of success and start the treatment as soon as your stretch marks appear. Also, keep in mind none of these treatments will be able to eliminate your stretch marks completely.

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