If you are puzzled as to the cause of stretch marks, be assured that they are not caused because of dry skin or some vitamin deficiency. Stretch marks are actually brought on by the rapid stretching of the skin due to rapid growth (common in puberty) or weight fluctuations. In fact, studies indicate that 75% – 90% of females form stretch marks to various degrees during pregnancy alone.
Stretch marks show no favorites – they are common in both people at any age and nationality. The reality of it all is that stretch marks are a natural part of growing up and various other life experiences, like pregnancy.
Stretch marks are also referred to as striae distensae. Medical terminology for these kinds of markings include striae atrophicae, vergetures, striae cutis distensae, striae gravidarum (in cases where it is caused by pregnancy), lineae atrophicae, striae distensae, linea albicante, or simply striae. The good news is that you can get rid of them to a certain degree though.
Women and Stretch Marks
Ladies often suffer from stretch marks on various parts on their body during the teen years and While pregnant. However, contrary to conventional wisdom, and their unfortunate name, the stretch mark cause is not over-stretched skin. Women who are pregnant often experience stretch marks as the skin stretches at a rate too fast for the skin to keep up with. Over-weight conditions and body building can also result in stretch marks as the body rapidly puts on additional weight.
Pregnant with Stretch Marks
Being pregnant is a time when your body is changing quickly – both weight and shape. The colateral damage from pregnancy like stretch marks are common in many women with up to 90% experiencing some degree of skin damage. Stretch marks show up as red or purplish streaks developing on your body, most commonly on your stomach and breasts. The time of pregnancy is truly a wonderful time in a woman’s life, but this one aspect of child-bearing, however, can cause real self esteem issues.
Weight gain and weight loss can also change the severity of your stretch marks. It is critical to keep yourself hydrated, as this will help provide elasticity to your skin and allow it to stretch further without damage. If you are experiencing a significant weight gain or loss, you can take a proactive approach by using stretch mark cream products to help prevent the development of the marks.
Also, weight lifters, especially males, are prone to stretch marks appearing on their upper arms and shoulder areas when development of muscle is built up quickly. An effective stretch mark lotion can give the skin additional flexibility and help prevent stretch mark development.
Adolescents sometimes see the development of stretch marks due to the tremendous amount of growth they experience during these [teenage years|that period of time in their life]. A natural approach to helping prevent stretch marks is to maintain healthy skin. This involves drinking lots of liquids and taking skin supporting supplements such as vitamin E.
Though the cause of stretch marks can vary, the most common culprit is rapid weight gain and weight loss. But fear not, there is still hope! A stretch mark prevention program consisting of stretch marks cream, drinking lots of water, and controlled weight changes can help reduce stretch mark development. A little effort today can save you from suffering the effects of damaged skin in the future.
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