Stretchmarks are formed when an individual’s skin is stretched rapidly : More accurately, the skin’s second layer gets torn by overstretching. The worst affected areas for stretch marks are the stomach, breasts, thighs and hips. Both Genders can suffer from stretchmarks and they affect the majority of the adult population. Thankfully, they aren’t harmful to our health and only affect us cosmetically. However, As it becomes warmer, and we wear fewer clothes, our concerns about stretch marks increase.

How do stretchmarks occur?

Stretch marks develop when the body grows at a high rate so that the skin can’t stretch quick enough to keep up with it. Stretch marks are most frequently associated with pregnancy however, they also develop during puberty: sudden weight gain and even body building can also cause stretch marks.

Although the skin is usually fairly elastic , when it is overstretched, the normal production of collagen is disrupted. we need collagen to keep the skin firm and elastic. There are some external factors which affect the ability of the skin to produce and maintain collagen levels such as whether or not the person smokes and their diet These collagen levels affect lines and wrinkles on the face. They also largely dictate how other blemishes, such as acne scars or even surgery scars, heal.

What do stretch marks look like?

When they first form, stretch marks stand out as red / purple lines. They appear indented and feel different to the surronding skin. Over time, the discoloration does subside, turning a lighter colour, generally silver,and fade away slightly. Depending on individuals, the stretch marks can heal to a degree but it is unlikely that they will completely disappear.

Stretch Mark Removal

Treating stretch marks is possible either at home or by visiting an expert. Stretch mark treatments vary wildly in cost and effectiveness, treatments range from the application of cream to having laser treatments to try to remove them For most, stretch marks are a source of embarrassment and prevent people from wearing what they like, but this can be overcome or eliminated by treatment to remove stretch marks.

Creams and oils are the cheapest variety of stretch marks removal but, not much of the cream is actually absorbed into the skin therefore, creams are not affective in stretch marks removal. Combining this process with techniques such as skin needling, allows significantly more cream to be absorbed so this method is the best method for most people.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 am and is filed under Womens Advice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.