Do You Know the Cause of Stretch Marks?
August 1, 2009 by Paul
Filed under General, Weight Loss
If you are puzzled as to the cause of stretch marks, be aware that they are not caused because of dry 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 gain. Surprisingly, studies reveal that 75% – 90% of women form stretch marks to some degrees during pregnancy alone. No person can hide from stretch marks; people of all ages or nationality are afflicted by these unsightly marks. We need to recognize that stretch marks are a common part of the growth process.
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
Ladies often experience stretch marks on various parts on their body during puberty and While pregnant. 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. Overweight situations and bodybuilding can also lead to stretch marks as the body rapidly increases in size and weight.
Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Pregnancy is a time when your body is changing quickly – both weight and shape. The colateral damage from pregnancy like stretch marks are common in many females with up to 90% forming some form of skin damage. You may start to notice red or purplish streaks developing on your body, usually on your abdomen and breasts. The time of pregnancy is truly a wonderful time in a woman’s life, but this one aspect of child-bearing, however, is an unwelcome remembrance of an otherwise special moment.
Preventing Stretch Marks
Weight gain and loss of weight can also change the seriousness of your stretch marks. A key factor is to keep yourself hydrated, as this will give 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, weight lifters, especially males, are susceptible stretch marks appearing on their upper arms and shoulder areas when a large amount of muscle is built up quickly. A reputable stretch mark creme can provide the skin additional flexibility and help in the prevention of stretch mark development.
Adolescents sometimes experience the formation of stretch marks because of the tremendous amount of growth they experience during these [teenage years|that period of time in their life]. 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.
Though the cause of stretch marks can vary, the most common culprit is rapid weight gain and weight loss. But fear not, there is still hope! A stretch mark prevention program consisting of stretch marks cream, drinking lots of water, and controlled weight changes can help reduce stretch mark development. This is truly a small price to pay to avoid stretch marks from ruining your self-confidence in the future.
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