How Are Stretch Marks Caused?
Our skin grows at the same pace as our body in our initial years. However, as we grow older, our skin does not grow. To put it simple, stretch marks are caused when our skin does not grow as fast as our body does. Changes in body shape due to pregnancy or weight gain causes the skin to stretch rapidly. The skin does not grow fast enough; as a result, the tissue in the dermis tears, or breaks. These breaks look reddish-purple when they are forming, and become white later. Contrary to what any cosmetic can promise you, there is only one way that makes stretch marks go away, and that’s surgery. There are some beauty tips, however, which you can follow to make your stretch marks look less obvious.
How do I Reduce the Visibility of Stretch Marks?
There are several over-the-counter creams and lotions that can help you get rid of stretch marks. When you are picking a cream or lotion, remember to pick one that has some or all of the following ingredients:
• Aloe Vera: In addition to being an antiseptic, this wonder plant causes regeneration in the cells, promotes elasticity and has several minerals and vitamins. It is known for its healing properties.
• Cocoa Butter: It is effective in reaching down from the top layer of the skin, and penetrating the dermis. It is the damage to the dermis that causes stretch marks, and the butter has access to the damaged tissue, which it can then repair.
• Vitamin E: It has regenerative powers, and is also an antioxidant. It stimulates the production of new cells, which can repair the damage caused by tears in the dermis.
Stretch marks are caused when you put on too much weight at one go. To avoid this, you can exercise regularly. Regular exercise also keeps the skin well-toned, and this prevents stretch marks from expanding. In addition, to keep your skin from getting damaged, it is important to hydrate your body by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. To improve the health of your skin, eat foods like carrots, almonds, spinach, fresh fruits, eggs and chicken. You can also consult your doctor about taking nutritional supplements to help your body absorb vitamins that your daily diet may not provide. Moisturise your skin twice a day to keep it smooth and retain elasticity.
Stretch marks that are not too old can be covered up with tanning lotions. If you’re beyond that stage, you can consider microdermabrasion, in which minerals are used to exfoliate the top layer of the skin. This procedure reduces the appearance of stretch marks and other scars on the skin, as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
It’s important to remember that even excellent beauty tips will work only if you follow it regularly, and back it up with a good diet and exercise; or any results you get will only be temporary.