Myths about Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are in fact skin tears which are formed when our skin is stretched beyond its normal limit due to factors like pregnancy, weight gain, hormonal changes, drugs etc. This is a worldwide problem faced by many men and women. Stretch marks deface our appearance and for this reason they cause anxiety and depression in billions of people who suffer from such marks. People spend their fortune on useless and overpriced treatments for these marks. In spite of common occurrence, there are several misconceptions related to the stretch marks. Listed below are some of the most frequent myths regarding stretchmarks and expert’s insight about them.

Myth No. 1: Only women suffer from the stretch marks

Fact: Both women and men can develop stretch marks. Women mostly suffer from them because of the association of stretch marks with pregnancy. But men can also suffer from such marks because of growth spurts or workouts for building muscles.

Myth No. 2: Stretchmarks form on the abdomen only

Fact: Wrong! Our legs, arms, breast, hips etc. can develop these marks as well. So don’t worry if you find one of these on your arms or legs. Any part of your body that can develop over-stretching of the skin is prone to the formation of stretch marks.

Myth No. 3: Skinny people do not get stretch marks

Fact: Although obese people get stretch marks more commonly but slim people are not entirely risk-free. This is because a number of factors play role in the development of these marks, for example, hormone levels and genetics. So if your mum has stretch marks, you are at risk as well.

Myth No.4: Stretch marks are totally unavoidable

Fact: When genetics come into play, the stretch marks are virtually unpreventable. However, a well-organized regime can be formulated to maintain the vitality of skin.

The most important thing is to keep the skin hydrated by moisturizing it on a regular basis. This will keep its elasticity intact, therefore preventing tears in the skin when it over-stretches. Secondly, keep your skin nourished by using products which contain gotu kola, vitamin E, cocoa butter etc.

Finally, prevent undue increase in weight or sudden fluctuations in weight by exercising regularly and maintaining a well-balanced diet. Adopting a healthy and fit lifestyle is a perfect way for keeping your skin supple and flawless.

Myth No. 5: There is no treatment for stretch marks

Fact: The truth is that you can treat stretch marks and manage them well with the help of an expert like a dermatologist. The dermatologist will advise you topical treatments like retinoid and alpha-hydroxy acid cream. Natural sources of alpha-hydoxy acids are sugar and milk. Their mechanism of action is the gentle exfoliation of the top-most skin layer. This will remove all of the dead skin and expose the new skin free from scars and stretch marks. Retinoid can be obtained from the vitamin A. It acts by exfoliating the skin and stimulating the production of collagen. This will make your skin healthy and more resistant to any kind of damage.

There are also a number of procedure which can be used to reduce the stretch marks. These procedures include laser therapy and microdermabrasion.