Beautiful, silky, and flawless skin – this is exactly what all women dream of without exception. But, unfortunately, many are faced with various cosmetic defects that have to be fought for a long time to say goodbye forever. And one of the common problems is stretch marks on the body or, as they are also called, striae.
Many representatives of the fair half are very worried about the appearance of stretch marks. These narrow and long stripes on the skin cause some discomfort, especially in summer, when you want to wear a swimsuit, and they are right there … Let’s try to figure out how to get rid of and prevent their appearance.
What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are a kind of scars on the body that appear due to strong stretching of the skin, as a result of which the collagen and elastin fibers are torn. As a rule, this process occurs due to rapid weight gain, and growth (in adolescents during puberty), as well as during pregnancy. But we’ll talk more about this a little later.
I would like to note right away that stretch marks are not a sign of any problem in the body. According to various estimates, they are present in 90% of people and are considered common. Outwardly, stretch marks may look like red convex linear or white atrophic stripes pressed into the skin. These skin lesions can vary in length, width, and number.
Most often, stretch marks are localized in the following places:
- On hands;
- On the legs (most often on the hips and buttocks);
- On the stomach;
- On the breasts.
In some cases, stretch marks disappear on their own, for example, after childbirth, they may disappear after 6 months. But, unfortunately, most often they stay with us until we want to get rid of them.
Problems with Stretch Marks
Stretch marks on the skin are not only a problem for women, men also face it in the same way. Everyone has a chance to get this cosmetic defect. Some people are more prone to their appearance since the reason often lies in a hereditary predisposition. If your loved ones have stretch marks, you will likely get them too, so it is important to take this into account right away.
Stretch marks most often appear in pregnant women. This is not at all surprising, because as the fetus develops, the skin gradually stretches.
But besides this, some other factors can cause their appearance:
- The use of corticosteroid medications (an excess of the hormone can lead to a loss of elasticity of the epidermis);
- Rapid weight gain and loss;
- Breast augmentation surgery;
- Rapid muscle growth in athletes (in particular, bodybuilders).
If it so happens that you already have stretch marks, then this is far from a sentence. It is quite possible to get rid of them. How? Let’s figure it out.
How to remove stretch marks on the body
Today, there are many proven ways to get rid of stretch marks. You can try to do this at home or seek help from a beautician. Consider the most popular stretch mark removal products on your own, and also get acquainted with salon procedures that have also proven themselves well.
Home Remedies for Stretch Marks
Who said that it is impossible to get rid of stretch marks on the skin alone? For home beauty procedures to bring noticeable results, it is important to use proven tools and tips. We have selected 5 ways to get rid of stretch marks at home:
- Scrubbing. For this, sugar or coffee scrubs are suitable. Small particles gently remove dead skin, make it smooth, and even out tone and texture.
- Retinoids. Everyone knows that vitamin A derivatives can even out skin tone, rejuvenate it and make stretch marks less noticeable. But remember that this cream is best used in the evening. Use sunscreen the next morning to protect your skin. Or wear clothing that covers well the areas of the skin where retinoids were previously applied. It is better not to use such creams during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Hyaluronic acid. It is no secret that hyaluronic acid has moisturizing, firming, and regenerative properties. In addition, it increases the elasticity of the skin, which is very, very important, since stretch marks are the result of an insufficient ability of the epidermis to stretch. Some studies have shown that hyaluronic acid can potentially be used to eliminate stretch marks. To get a noticeable result, you need to wear care products (creams, lotions, serums) daily.
- Centella Asiatica. This plant can be found in cosmetics, especially often it is part of Korean cosmetics. Treatment with Centella asiatica is used to treat scars and restore the skin. Its plus lies in the fact that the active components of the plant stimulate the production of collagen, increasing the elasticity of the skin, and restoring and soothing it.
- Coconut oil. It will not be necessary to talk about its properties for a long time, since everyone already knows about them. Coconut oil perfectly moisturizes the skin, increases its protective barrier has healing properties, and is also often used to combat stretch marks. Even a light daily massage with this oil will help improve skin elasticity and blood circulation, as well as activate recovery processes.
Remember, to achieve the desired results, you must use any remedy for stretch marks regularly.
Medical Treatments for Stretch Marks
In this case, it is important to choose a good and trusted specialist who will help get rid of stretch marks. Among the most popular procedures that exist today, the following can be distinguished:
- Laser therapy. This is one of the most popular and working methods. The laser can even out the skin relief and eliminate white (old) and red stretch marks. The course of procedures will depend on the type of laser.
- Microdermabrasion. Never heard of this? Then we tell. The essence of this procedure is to polish the surface of the skin. Very similar to scrubbing, but only hardware. During all manipulations, the upper layer of the epidermis is removed, the growth of new and healthy cells is stimulated, the skin acquires a uniform tone, and stretch become less noticeable each time.
- RF radiation. Another method of dealing with striae. Radiofrequency therapy is carried out strictly on the affected areas of the skin. Removal of the defect is carried out under the influence of RC energy on the skin. Due to the thermal effect on the skin, the production of collagen is activated, which leads to skin rejuvenation, elasticity increases, and the relief is smoothed.
Each procedure has its characteristics. We recommend that you first consult with a beautician to choose the most suitable option for yourself.
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How to prevent stretch marks
It is better to prevent any problem than to try to get rid of its consequences later. The same goes for stretch marks. The following tips can help reduce your risk:
- Observe the drinking regime;
- Eat right (do not forget that many foods favorably affect the condition of the skin);
- Lead an active lifestyle (even light workouts will help make the skin more elastic);
- Use cosmetics that help maintain the health of the epidermis. Here it would be appropriate to regularly scrub, and use creams with hyaluronic acid or centella, as well as coconut oil. We have already talked about all this above.
On this, perhaps, we will end. Write in the comments if stretch on your body give you discomfort and if you have tried to deal with them somehow. Share your experience.
FAQs
What is the best time to start preventing stretch marks?
It is recommended to start preventive measures as soon as you notice any signs of rapid weight gain or during pregnancy. The earlier you start taking care of your skin, the better chances you have of preventing stretch.
How long does it take to see results from home remedies?
The time it takes to see results from home remedies may vary from person to person. Generally, consistent and regular application of home remedies for several weeks or months can lead to visible improvements in the appearance of stretch.
Are medical treatments for stretch safe?
When performed by trained professionals, most medical treatments for stretch are considered safe. However, it is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or healthcare provider to discuss your specific situation and any potential risks associated with the treatment options.
Can men get stretch marks?
Absolutely! Although stretch are more commonly associated with women due to pregnancy and hormonal changes, men can also develop stretch. Factors such as rapid muscle growth, weight fluctuations, and genetic predisposition can contribute to the formation of stretch marks in men.
Can stretch marks go away completely?
While it may not be possible to eliminate stretch, some various treatments and remedies can help fade their appearance and make them less noticeable over time. With consistent care and the right approach, many people can significantly reduce the visibility of their stretch marks.
