If you have experienced stretch marks, you know how frustrating they can be. These purplish lines on the skin can come from pregnancy, gaining or losing weight too quickly or even from lifting weights. The cause is damage from stretched skin in the middle layer of the skin, the dermis. These scars are the result of the damage. There are some treatments for stretch marks to consider.

Stretch marks have no health risk but they can certainly be psychologically damaging. The marks can affect people of any age. When a teenager gets them, they can be even more emotionally hurtful, as teens tend to be socially insecure to begin with. The most common approach to treating them is with creams and oils applied topically.

For best results, you should begin applying these creams as soon as you notice a stretch mark showing up. The earlier you begin treatment, the better your chances are for good results. When browsing products, look for those that contain Vitamin E. Vitamin E has long been associated with various levels of skin care. It maintains skin’s smoothness and suppleness. It can also lessen the appearance of stretch marks. Cocoa butter is also a commonly used ingredient. Usually, these creams are applied twice a day or more.

There is no guarantee that these treatments will work. However, people are finding improvement in the marks’ appearance. As with any regiment, it is important to maintain it. It is vital to apply the cream every day and miss as few applications as possible. Remember that the damage is deep into the skin; it will require more than a couple of topical applications to repair it. Sometimes, the damage may not be repairable.

Prescriptions are also available for treatment. Usually these products will contain Retin-A, another ingredient known for its benefits to the skin. It helps induce natural skin exfoliation and boosts production of collagen. Collagen is what gives skin its elasticity and firmness. Retin A tends to work better on newer marks, like marks that are under a year old and are still pink.

Some people have turned to cosmetic laser surgery to fight their marks This is the most effective form of treatment but also the most expensive. Patients will usually need 6 or more treatments before seeing results. The process is a series of treatments that vaporize and break down the affected skin tissues.

The best thing to do about stretch marks is to try to avoid getting them in the first place. This is best accomplished by watching your weight and avoiding rapid loss and gaining of weight. Keeping a healthy, steady weight will keep skin damage to a minimum and prevent marks.

Also be careful when lifting weights. Increase in muscle mass can have the same effect on the skin as does increase in fat mass. Furthermore, lifting too much weight or lifting improperly can tear the skin which will lead to stretch marks. And, like everything else, a good diet will be beneficial. Eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, get plenty of protein and drink lots of water. A good diet can prevent the marks from ever showing up and may help them ease over time. – 35634

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