How to Cure Stretch Marks in Women

Puberty, weight gain, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy and muscle building are some of the causes of stretch marks. They are formed when there is tearing or rapid stretching of the top most layers of the skin known as the dermis. 75-90 percent women develop these marks after giving birth to babies. Curing stretch marks is an important concern for every women post child birth. This article tries to gain further insight on this topic.

How to Cure Stretch Marks
Research studies have found that when the cream Trofolastin was applied on these marks on daily basis, very fewer marks were left behind. The cream contains extracts of Gotu Kola, collagen hydrolyastes and Vitamin E.

Another cream known as Verum contains panthenol, Vitamin E, elastin, hyaluronic acid and menthol was found to be equally beneficial in preventing these marks.

The number of these studies which can scientifically establish the benefits of stretch marks cream is very less. As a result, presently the efficacy of creams in treating this condition is doubtful.

Some of the modern and modalities of getting rid of the stretch marks are mentioned below:

TummyTuck Surgery: It is a cosmetic surgery which involves removal of excess fat from the abdominal area. In the United States, the cost of this surgery varies from $4000-$20,000. No guarantee of the procedure is given by the surgeons.

Fractional Laser Resurfacing: The process involves creating wounds on the skin using energy waves like intense pulse light on it. The wound heals all by itself replacing old cells with new ones. The side effects associated with this relatively costly method are of temporary nature.

Dermabrasion: It is a surgical procedure where the upper layers of the skin are superficially damaged using mechanical means like sand paper. The skin looks very raw after the procedure and that is why local anesthetic is used to reduce the pain involved. It takes several months for the skin to re-grow.
The reasons behind the popularity of this method are that it is affordable and its effectiveness is same as the laser method. Sun sensitivity, dryness and temporary bruising of the treated area are the minimal side effects of this method.

Prescription Retinoids: These chemicals work by accelerating the growth of new cells along the top layers of the skin.

What are the Home Remedies to Cure Stretch Marks

• Apricot scrubs can be rubbed over these marks. It is a natural way to get rid of them in a small duration of time
• Aroma oil massage can also provide beneficial results when done on regularly basis post child birth
• Vitamin A and Vitamin E liquids can be blended with half cup of olive oil and quarter cup of aloe vera gel. The solution can be refrigerated and applied on the stretch marks regularly to get naturally benefited
• One ounce of carrier oil can be mixed with seven drops of lavender and few drops of chamomile. Daily application of the preparation can reduce marks due to elongation of the skin

Appearance and Causes of Stretch marks

The raised pink, reddish brown or dark brown lines that gradually change into a brighter violet or purple can be identified as stretch marks that fade to a lighter color than even the natural skin tone, given time.

• Most growing girls develop stretch marks during adolescence as the skin swells and develops along with bodily changes and stretch marks appear because of weight gain. Some may develop stretch marks due to binge eating or fad diets, involving periods of eating, starvation, purging or other extreme steps, which result in quick weight loss, accompanied by stretch marks. These are unhealthy practices and should be avoided.
• The abdomen, breasts, upper arms, thighs, hips and the butt are the commonly afflicted areas of the body. Pregnancy, too, brings along its share of stretch marks as the female body skin stretches to accommodate another living being and weight gain is imminent.
• Avoiding fatty foods, balanced meals with 8-10glasses of water daily, sufficient moisturizing and effective exercises helps maintain moisture level in the body and prevent further stretch marks.
• Pregnant women are advised to watch their weight and eat healthy, with eating for two being increasingly regarded as an old wife’s tale and eating the correct proportion of fruit, vegetables and white meat, being the solution to maintaining ideal weight and preventing stretch marks.

Conclusion: Regular exercise and intake of foods rich in vitamin goes a long way in curing stretch marks.