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Stretch marks, or striae, are a common skin difficulty that affect all kinds of people.  Understanding the situations in which the condition occurs may help to combat the problem.

 

As the largest organ in your body, the health and appearance of your skin is vital.  Skin consists of three layers - the epidermis is the first, dermis the second and the subcutaneous is the last layer.  The dermis layer is full of elastin and collagen and provides the major support for the system.  When the dermis layer is stretched too far, too quickly it becomes torn, which causes the scarring known as stretch marks.

 

Often this happens during pregnancy.  Common areas are the abdomen near the navel, the buttocks, breasts, inner and outer thighs and upper arms.  As the pregnant woman’s body naturally grows with the fetus, this may seem like an unavoidable thing.  However a controlled and moderate weight gain can certainly help to reduce the chance of stretch marks.

 

Stretch marks can also occur during puberty on both males and females, a result of growth spurts.  Rapid weight gain at any age and quick muscle growth due to body building may cause stretch marks to appear as well.  Hormonal changes that can happen during all of these things (pregnancy, puberty, weight gain and muscle building) may be responsible for stretch marks as well.

 

In all of these cases, the growth of the body or fatty areas happened too quickly and the support system in the dermis was stretched too far.  There are several other factors which may cause people to be more susceptible to stretch marks. 

 

The overall state of your health may also contribute to the appearance and severity of stretch marks.  If you have frequent dry or irritated skin problems, your skin may be starting from a disadvantage.  Hydration of your body and skin will help to maintain the flexibility and support in the dermis layer.

 

There are a wide variety of natural and synthetic creams and lotions available for the treatment and prevention of stretch marks.  Cocoa butter has been traditionally claimed as the most effective, although recent research refutes that.  Also available are more invasive treatments, such as laser surgery, tummy tucks or dermabrasion (a procedure where the epidermis is removed using abrasion), which are all more expensive and no more proven than traditional topical methods.

 

Stretch marks are not painful and pose no threat of harm.  With time they will fade from a reddish or purple color to silver or tan.  If desired, take the time to research the various products available for treatment of stretch marks and choose one that is right for you.  Don’t forget to treat your body and skin well, helping you to stay ahead of stretch marks altogether.






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