Stretch Marks Stretch marks, also known as striae, are caused by the rapid and sudden growth of the skin. Stretch marks initially appear as red or pinkish lines and then slowly fade to white over time. Stretch marks are deep scars resulting from the widening or stretching of the collagen and elastin bundles in the skin. This occurs when the skin surface is suddenely stretched before it is able to grow resulting in small tears in the epidermal or dermal surface. Of course it is much easier to prevent stretch marks from forming then it is to make them disappear. Improving the skin's elasticity and stimulating production of new skin cells before the skin is stretched will prevent stretch marks. Follow these tips when stretch marks are most likely to form e.g. During pregnancy, puberty or weight gain. How to prevent Stretch Marks:
Most people however want to know how to get rid of them. There are many products on the market claiming to reduce and even eliminate stretch marks. It's very important to treat stretch marks at the earliest stage possible (when still pink) for the best results. Remember: stretch marks like all types of scars fade over time. |
