How to get Rid of Stretch Marks?

Just what are stretch marks and why are people so concerned about them? Basically the name tells us how they come to appear on the skin. When the human skin is excessively stretched, such as when a woman is pregnant, fibers in the inner layers of skin actually break or become badly misshapen. This condition can occur when people gain a lot of weight for other reasons or build muscles to an unusual size.
These marks usually are red or pink in color, making them stand out from the normal hue of the skin. While stretch marks do fade with time they may not disappear completely without some help. In fact, it may be best to avoid creating stretch marks if possible.

No Marks!

There are really only two ways to prevent stretch marks – don’t stretch the skin in the first place or make sure the skin is very elastic. Of course, with some situations, such as pregnancy, there isn’t a lot you can do to prevent some stretch marks. However, new combinations of ingredients in skin lotions and creams help reduce unsightly marks, if not prevent them altogether. Results will vary from one person to the next, but any help from these over-the-counter products will be welcome.

It’s also possible to reduce the effects of skin stretching by using a few specific vitamins – E, C and A. These particular vitamins seem to work with the natural substances that make up the inner layers of skin, keeping that skin elastic. This allows it to stretch a bit further without permanent marks. It’s also essential that a person drink plenty of water and natural juices so that the body remains well hydrated. Dry skin will retain stretch marks more readily than moist skin.

Getting Rid of Them

If you already have stretch marks from pregnancy or changes in body weight, you may want to try a few natural/home remedies. Not only can you reduce stretch marks, you will also be contributing to healthy skin. First of all, be patient. Many of the worst marks will fade or even disappear with time. Help this process along with a cream that has Tretinoin as an active ingredient. Research on this substance dates back more than 10 years. Study results show that this type of cream does help. As with any medicated cream, lotion or other treatment, always consult with your doctor before trying the method. This is especially true for women who are pregnant.

Women have long known about the hand loofah made of natural material or a man-made “scrunchy” type of massage item. These should be used to gently exfoliate the skin, removing some signs of stretch marks and other markings from the skin. Some people report good results from taking a hot bath and gently massaging the affected area. You may be able to hide some evidence of stretch marks by making a few visits to the great outdoors. Tanning your skin (using sun-screen products) can help.