Posts Tagged ‘how to prevent stretch marks’

How to Prevent Stretch Marks

Stretch marks appear when due to different reasons the skin stretches and causes dermis damage. This condition is rather hard to treat and it’s impossible to remove old stretch marks without aggressive approach. But stretch marks are easy to prevent if you know what to pay attention to.

How to Prevent Stretch Marks

Obesity, pregnancy, adolescence and old age – these are the 4 states, which increase the risk of stretch marks. In first 3 cases the rapid growth of muscles or tissues may not coincide with the speed of skin growth and the dermis is damaged. To prevent it, you have to use anti-stretch marks creams and gels and pay more attention to skin care and physical exercises. Regular exercises outdoors improve the color and tone of skin and have a positive effect on body in general. Take a shower with an anti-stretch mark scrub at least 3 times a week and avoid hot baths, as hot water decreases skin elasticity. Smoking and over consumption of caffeine are also skin enemies.

Another frequent cause of stretch marks is hormonal imbalance. It’s common for pregnant women, 13+ children and people over 50. In all these cases a consultation with your doctor is needed. Corrective treatment and/or changes in lifestyles help to decrease the risk of stretch marks by 3 and more.

Stretch Marks Causes

Stretch marks, often also called striae, are white, purple or reddish scars on skin caused by hormonal misbalance or weight gain. They are common for overweight people, pregnant women and teenagers in the period of rapid growth. Stretch marks are easier to prevent than to cure, as in most cases it’s very difficult to get rid of stretch marks completely.
To prevent stretch marks, you should know what causes them and diminish the risk factors. Stretch marks can appear:
• During the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, as this is the time of the most rapid growth of the fetus and woman’s skin stretches to adopt to the size of the fetus
• During the process of puberty, as it’s also associated with rapid growth
• If one has hormonal misbalance or is under hormone replacement therapy
• If one is fond of muscle building
Stretch marks are also common for aged people and those prone to weight gain. The immediate cause of stretch marks is decreased skin elasticity, so if you know how to prevent it, you know how to prevent stretch marks. Read about stretch marks removals and creams in our next article.