Reducing Your Risk of Developing Stretch Marks

By Tony Garrudo

Stretch marks are fine lines of thin stretched tissue that may appear on the body, often during rapid weight gain or pregnancy. Naturally, our skin is very flexible. However, during rapid growth, the production of collagen is disrupted (collagen is a protein found in our skin that makes up most of the connective tissue giving it a smooth texture). This leads to reddish lines on your skin with a rough texture that will eventually turn grayish or white before fading. Stretch marks can affect both men and women, however, they are more prevalent in women, especially during pregnancy.

Apart from pregnancy, often times people who are obese, people how have excess amounts of body fat, or even body builders can both develop stretch marks as a result of the rapid bodily changes that occur. Heredity can also play a role in the development of stretch marks. Some people are naturally born with dry skin that is less elastic than that of other people. In these instances, it will require less body change in a short period of time to develop stretch marks. Also, many steroids which are taken through contact with the skin can cause stretch marks in one's body.

Stretch marks will eventually fade over time, although they will never naturally be removed from your skin. There are a few medical operations and products that you can use to help remove the stretch marks from your body, ranging from surgery to a variety of creams available which claim to help remove stretch marks. These operations and creams are very expensive and most of them are not very good or dangerous, so it is best to help reduce your chances of developing stretch marks in the first place.

Taking enough water into your body each day will help you do this. Since caffeine can have a weakening effect on the dermis, the elastic part of the skin, it would do you well to stay away from soda, coffee, and other caffeinated drinks. You can also keep stretch marks away with the proper diet and taking in natural foods.

Ask anyone and they will tell you that they wish they could get rid of their stretch marks. It can't be stressed enough: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take all the necessary precautions you can to avoid developing stretch marks. It is imperative that you eat a well balanced diet, make healthy food choices, and drink sufficient amounts of water. There will always be those times in your life when you cannot avoid the appearance of stretch marks, particularly during pregnancy. In such an instance as pregnancy where medical supervision is necessary, don't attempt anything on your own, but rather consult with a dermatologist to see if there is a treatment that will be safe and beneficial for you. - 30516

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