Protection Against Pregnancy-Related Stretch Marks
Our bodies tend to change as we age. And all that we can do is take proper care of ourselves and age gracefully. This is all the more true for women who have the added responsibility of bringing another life to the world. Post pregnancy women tend to gain weight; and stretch marks appear on abdomen, thigh and hip areas, since the skin in these areas stretches swiftly . Normally, skin is fairly elastic. However, when it is overstretched, the normal production of collagen is affected, causing stretch marks. Collagen is the major protein that makes the connective tissue in our skin and is responsible for keeping the skin smooth and supple. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can also be one of the causes of these stretch marks. Young mothers – suffering from stretch marks – tend to get a little self-conscious and stop wearing the outfits that they would otherwise prefer to wear. Hence, the reduction of stretch marks becomes all the more important in this context.
In the beginning, stretch marks appear as reddish or purplish lines having a different texture than the skin surrounding it. These become lighter and in some instances can disappear altogether. However, the entire process often takes time and one would like to know ways through which these could be made less noticeable quickly.
The methods to treat these marks vary over a wide range. There are affordable and effective creams and lotions available in the market that promise to lighten and remove these marks. On the other hand, there are relatively expensive techniques such as laser surgery, which is equally effective.
These creams and lotions boost vitamins, minerals and other essential micro nutrients in the body and heal from within. Laser surgery, on the other hand, removes these marks by forcing the skin to create healing elements on its own.
Some specifically formulated lotions and creams from leading cosmetics giants and pharmaceutical firms promise to reduce the stretch marks to a large extent. These creams contain powerful ingredients that smoothen and soften the skin tone and reduce the appearance of the marks. Secondly, these creams increase the elasticity of the skin by moisturizing it and protecting it against the appearance of stretch marks in the future.
Skin creams containing cocoa butter are most effective in reducing these marks or prevent them from appearing in the first place. However, it is advised for pregnant women to consult their doctors before using these or any other creams to avoid any kind of harm to the baby.
Another means of reducing stretch marks is by taking a proper balanced diet. Eating food high in Vitamins A, E and C is a good practice. Food items, rich in zinc, such as soybeans, whole grains, brown rice and green leafy vegetables can also help form collagen and support skin fibers. Also, drinking lots of water keeps the skin hydrated and protected against these marks.
Reduction of stretch marks takes on an added importance for young mothers wanting to look their best. Stretch marks cream such as Celtrixa reduces the discoloration and depressions in the skin and makes it look lighter and smoother.