Dealing with Stretchmarks

by Jason Layo

STRETCH MARKSStretch marks, also known as Striae Gravidarum occur in over 80 of pregnancies. Many women fear the marks left behind, and they can lease to self conscious and a lack of confidence which is often exacerbated by post partum.But why do they occur?The structure of our skin is what lies behind stretch marks. Our skin is comprised of two layers. The outer layer we see is known as the epidermis, below this is the thicker lower layer called the dermis. Between these layers protein filaments called elastin act like a rubber band, keeping the skin toned and tense. However like a rubber band the elasin in your skin can only be stretched to a certain point before it looses its ability to retain its structure, or break so they no longer return to the original position.During pregnancy the increase in size of the uterus, and the pressure this places on the abdomen causes. This torn elastin produces scarring that appears as white and pink/purple lines in the effected area.Stretch marks only affect pregnant women?This is not true as stretch marks can occur in anyone whose skin is exposed to a rapid increase in pressure cause by change in body shape. For example body builders, adolescents and people who put on excessive weight quickly all can suffer from stretch marks.Stretch marks can also affect the abdomen but also appear on the thighs, breasts, upper arms and the sides. As many people have tendencies to gain weight on different parts of their bodies, so too the likely hood of getting stretch marks on any of these areas increases.Can I prevent stretch marks?With varying degrees of success it’s possible to diminish the likely hood of getting stretch marks. Genetics plays a mayor part in stretch marks and if members of your family have them then the chance are that you too will be prone to them. By improving your muscle and skin tone before and during pregnancy you reduce the chances of stretch marks appearing. Increasing abdominal muscles particularly is helpful as it helps bear the weight of your growing uterus and relieve tension on your skin.Moisturizing is another way of helping your skin deal with the stress that it will endure. Well moisturized skin has the ability to stretch more without any real lasting damage.Recommended treatments for moisturizing your skin during pregnancy include shay butter, olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil and baby oil. When liberally applied to the hips abdomen and thighs it will help keep your skin smooth and supple.Removing Stretch Marks.Although stretch marks diminish over time, for some people this is too slow a process and they would like to see results over weeks or months, not years!On first appearance they are red and purple marks, over time they become silver line that may be harder to notice at first glance. Despite this fact some ladies still feel uncomfortable with them and desire to have them removed. There are a number of treatments available ranging from expensive surgical and laser treatment. There are home and spa treatments also available to reduce and remove stretch marks. They work by removing the outermost layers of skin and nourishing the dermis and epidermis. Such treatments often called "skin peels" can bring tone at firmness back to these areas at a fraction of the cost of surgical procedures. For more information on avoiding stretch marks and treating any that may be present please visit our web site at www.stretch-mark-cream.net for help and advice.

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