The Cause of Stretch Marks
If you are puzzled as to the cause of stretch marks, rest assured that they are not caused because of dry, irritated skin or an aging of the skin. Stretch marks are the result of the rapid stretching of the skin due to rapid growth (common in puberty) or weight fluctuations. In fact, studies reveal that 75% – 90% of women get stretch marks to some degrees as a result of being pregnant alone. Stretch marks can occur in men and women of all age groups and nationalities. The truth is that stretch marks are just a part of life.
Stretch marks are also referred to as striae distensae. Medical terminology for these kinds of markings include striae atrophicae, vergetures, striae cutis distensae, striae gravidarum (in cases where it is caused by pregnancy), lineae atrophicae, striae distensae, linea albicante, or simply striae. The good news is that you can get rid of them to a certain degree though.
Causes of Female Stretch Marks
Women are often the victim of stretch marks on various parts on their body during puberty and during pregnancy. However, contrary to conventional wisdom, and their unfortunate name, the stretch mark cause is not over-stretched skin. Women who are pregnant often experience stretch marks as the skin stretches at a rate too fast for the skin to keep up with. Obesity and bodybuilding can also lead to stretch marks as the body rapidly puts on additional weight.
Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Pregnancy is a time when your body goes through radical changes – both weight and shape. Pregnancy problems like stretch marks are common in many mothers with up to 90% developing some degree of skin damage. Stretch marks show up as red or purplish streaks developing on your body, generally on your belly and breasts. The time of pregnancy is truly a special time in a woman’s life, but this one aspect of child-bearing, however, can cause real self esteem issues.
Weight gain and weight loss can also change the magnitude of your stretch marks. It is important to keep yourself hydrated, as this will help provide elasticity to your skin and allow it to stretch further without damage. If you are experiencing a significant weight gain or loss, you can take a proactive approach by using stretch mark cream products to help prevent the development of the marks.
Also, bodybuilders, especially men, are susceptible stretch marks appearing on their upper arms and shoulder areas when development of muscle is built up quickly. A reputable stretch mark lotion can offer the skin additional elasticity and help deter stretch mark development.
A group especially prone to stretch marks is teens who experience rapid growth as they come out of puberty. A natural approach to helping prevent stretch marks is to maintain healthy skin. This involves drinking lots of liquids and taking skin supporting supplements such as vitamin E.
Despite a number of activities leading to the development of stretch marks, weight gain and loss is still the primary cause. But fear not, there is still hope! A stretch mark prevention program consisting of stretch mark removal cream, drinking lots of water, and controlled weight changes can help reduce stretch mark development. A little focus on prevention now can help your self-esteem on those future trips to the beach.
