Written By: Dr Kiran Lohia | Updated : March 11, 2014 5:42 PM IST
Stretch marks or striae are essentially skin tearing that occurs when the skin stretches due to weight changes, pregnancy, drugs, hormones, and more. Stretch marks are one of the most common complaints of women (and men) worldwide! These unsightly lesions cause millions of people severe distress with many resorting to unnecessary or expensive treatments to get rid of them. Even though they are so common, many people have misconceptions about these pesky scars. Dr Kiran Lohia busts some common myths about stretch marks and explains what the facts really are. Read below to learn.
Myth #1: Stretch marks only happen to women.
Fact: Stretch marks can happen to both men and women. While usually women are most afflicted by it due to pregnancy, men often do suffer from this problem, particularly in cases of weight changes and growth spurts. In fact, many teenagers get stretch marks due to these factors.
Myth #2: Stretch marks only occur on the stomach.
Fact: Striae can happen anywhere on the body where the skin stretches, including arms, legs, hips, breasts and more! So don't be alarmed if those pesky scars are on your upper arms. It is a common condition that can occur on any part of the body.
Myth #3: If you are skinny, you won't get them.
Fact: The reality is that no matter how thin you are, genetics and hormones are the number one reason for stretch marks to develop. Remember, these marks happen from skin stretching, not from being obese. So, a rule of thumb is that if your mom has them, you probably will get them too.
Myth #4: There is no way to prevent stretch marks.
Fact: Since genetics are a big cause of striae, it is hard to prevent these marks. However, a regimen of maintaining the suppleness of the skin can help reduce the risk of these skin lesions. First of all, moisturise the skin regularly and without fail! Proper skin hydration improves the elasticity of the skin, ultimately preventing skin from tearing when it is stretched. Secondly, look for creams with cocoa butter, vitamin E, gotu kola and other actives known to help improve skin tone. These actives will help ensure your skin gets the nutrition it needs.
Finally, avoid excessive weight gain or weight fluctuations by having a balanced diet and exercise plan. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best way to keep your skin looking clear and toned.
Myth #5: Stretch marks cannot be treated.
Fact: In reality, stretch marks are treatable and can be managed quite well by a good dermatologist. Topically, a dermatologist will recommend a cream that contains both alpha-hydroxy acids and a topical retinoid. Alpha-hydroxy acids are naturally derived from milk and sugar and act by gently exfoliating the top layer of the skin. This reveals newer skin, ultimately reducing the appearance of pesky marks and scars. Topical retinoids are derived from vitamin A, and also act by causing exfoliation, while simultaneously increasing collagen synthesis. This makes the skin more supple and resilient.
In regards to procedures, microdermabrasion is quite effective in removing those irritating scars. Microdermabrasion uses crystals to exfoliate superficial damaged skin, and requires many sessions to see the full results. However, this gentle procedure is very effective. Lasers are also in vogue now, with fractionated lasers showing great results with fewer sessions required. These lasers act by going deep into the skin to give a deeper exfoliation while also improving the ultimate suppleness and texture of the skin.
So if you too have stretch marks on your body and want to get rid of them then you can try these aforementioned procedures and also stop new ones from appearing by keeping your skin hydrated with a good cream.
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