Get Rid of Stretch Marks

When a person gains weight suddenly, the skin expands to accommodate the increase in body weight. Skin is elastic and can be stretched to a certain limit. Once the limit is crossed the innermost layer of the skin tears as it can stretch no more. As the underlying layer tears and the ones above are intact, the skin appears to be streaked. As soon as the skin tears, pink or purple lines appear as the capillaries burst. After some time these lines look slivery white. These are called stretch marks, which are in fact scars that are a result of skin tearing. Stretch marks occur in the dermis, which is the middle layer of the skin and is elastic and hence allows the skin to retain its shape. When repeatedly stretched the dermis breaks causing stretch marks. Women and men can have stretch marks on their thighs, abdomen, hips, breasts and upper arms. Once stretch marks appear they are permanent and difficult to get rid of.

As stretch marks are permanent they cannot be removed. Products that claim that their use can either prevent or remove stretch marks are misleading. The only thing possible is to reduce their visibility. Here are a few ways that visibility of stretch marks can be reduced:

• Using lotions: lotions sold for the treatment of stretch marks contain alpha hydoxy acid (AHA) which removes the skin cells on top thus allowing healthier skin cells to grow. These lotions work very gradually and must be regularly used. If use is discontinued the results will be lost. Formulations with vitamin A, C and E help in diminishing the appearance of stretch marks.



• Surgical Treatment: Chemical peeling or lasers can remove stretch mark scars. This treatment can be used only to a depth, which allows skin to be removed without causing scaring. The result of this treatment will depend on the age and skin color as well. This treatment is not used on people with dark skin. In a tummy tuck the skin below the abdomen is removed. Therefore if there are stretch marks in this region they can be easily removed by this surgery. If you want a tummy tuck you can get rid of your stretch marks at the same time. This is the only sure shot way of gettingrid of stretch marks.



• Nutrition and Diet: Eat foods rich in zinc like nuts and fish, foods with a high content of vitamin A, C, and D like citrus fruits, dairy products and carrots and protein rich food like eggs can improve the quality of your skin andprevent stretch marks. Drink plenty of water, at least 8-10 glasses per day. Adequate water intake will make your skin soft and supple thus preventing it from tearing. Reduce intake of tea, coffee and carbonated drinks.

Eat nutritious food and maintain a healthy diet to keep your skin young and healthy and prevent stretch marks.

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