What is the Cause of Stretch Marks?
Friday, July 31st, 2009If you are wondering what causes stretch marks, be aware that they are not caused because of dry, irritated skin or a need for special supplements. Stretch marks are formed by the rapid stretching of the skin due to rapid growth (common in adolescence) or weight fluctuations. Surprisingly, studies indicate that 75% – 90% of females get stretch marks to various degrees as a result of being pregnant alone. Stretch marks can occur in individuals of all ages and nationalities. 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.
Stretch Marks and the Female Anatomy
Women often experience stretch marks on various parts on their body during the teen years 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. Overweight situations and weightlifting can also lead to stretch marks as the body rapidly puts on additional weight.
Pregnant with Stretch Marks
The period when you are pregnant is a time when your body changes rapidly – both weight and shape. The colateral damage from pregnancy like stretch marks are common in many females with up to 90% forming some degree of skin damage. Stretch marks show up as red or purplish streaks developing on your body, most commonly on your stomach 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.
An increase in weight and weight loss can also change the seriousness 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, weight lifters, especially men, are prone to stretch marks appearing on their upper arms and shoulder areas when muscle mass is built up quickly. A good stretch mark cream can give the skin additional flexibility and help in the prevention of stretch mark development.
Teenagers are often prone to stretch mark development because of their rapid growth spurts that happen throughout adolescence. 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 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.
