What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks come from rapid changes in the skin’s density and elasticity, usually as a result of weight gains and losses. Stretch marks appear as creases or fine lines, sometimes turning dark purple or brown like the colour of bruises. They can happen anywhere, but are most prevalent around the hips, thighs, breasts, buttocks and stomach.
If you take a piece of kitchen plastic wrap and stretch it tight over a bowl, this represents your skin’s natural stretchability. Now push on the center of the plastic with your finger, stretching the plastic as far as you can without breaking it. When you release your finger, the indentation where your finger was is rippled and does not pull back into the smooth surface it once was. Your skin responds the same way to the stretching and pulling from changes in body mass.
There are several factors that can contribute to stretch marks. Pregnancy is big culprit for many women. But bodily changes during adolescence can also lead to light stretch marks around the hips and breasts. Body builders, who rapidly increase body mass can also incur stretch marks. Obesity and fluctuations in weight also produces moderate to severe stretch marks.
The body produces collagen, a protein which gives the skin the ability to stretch and reform. Dramatic changes in body mass can disrupt the collagen cells, which means your skin won’t reshape the way its supposed to. Age, hormones and improper diet can decrease the amount of collagen your body produces, meaning stretch marks are more likely.
Can Stretch Marks be Avoided?
Some people can undergo all kinds of massive body changes and never have even a whisper of a stretch mark. This is likely because of the strong collagen levels in their skin. For others, a five pound weight change prompts faint lines to occur almost immediately.
If you’re hoping to avoid stretch marks, the best thing you can do is take it slow. Exercise, body building, weight loss or weight gain (including muscle gain) all require your body to adjust itself to the new form you are creating. Taking things slow and making changes gradually will give your skin the time it needs to increase collagen levels and maintain elasticity. It also reduces the chance that the existing collagen shield will be damaged or disrupted.
Vitamin C is an essential element in the production of collagen as well as preventing the breakdown of the collagen cells that already exist. As with any vitamin, too much can lead to problems, so don’t go overboard. However, adding fruits and vegetables to your diet that are rich in Vitamin C will help.
If you already know you’re going to be making some body changes, such as pregnancy, body building or planned weight loss, keeping up Vitamin C levels will help your skin keep up with you. You can also try using lotions, creams or oils as a topical treatment to help skin stay supple and stretchable. Hydration is key, so make sure you are drinking plenty of water each and every day, to keep your skin as healthy as possible and help stave off stretch marks.
Processing your request, Please wait....
