If you are wondering what causes stretch marks, be assured that they are not caused because of dry skin or some vitamin deficiency. Stretch marks are the result of the rapid stretching of the skin due to rapid growth (common in the teen years) or weight gain. The reality is that studies reveal that 75% – 90% of women develop stretch marks to various degrees as a result of being pregnant alone. None of us can hide from stretch marks; people of any age or nationality are afflicted by these unsightly marks. The reality of it all is that stretch marks are a natural part of growing up and various other life experiences, like pregnancy.
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
Females often experience stretch marks on different parts on their body during puberty and during pregnancy. However, contrary to conventional wisdom, and their unfortunate name, the cause of stretch marks 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 result in stretch marks as the body rapidly increases in size and weight.
Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Pregnancy is a time when your body goes through radical changes – both weight and shape. The colateral damage from pregnancy like stretch marks are common in many females with up to 90% developing some form of skin damage. You may start to notice red or purplish streaks developing on your body, generally on your stomach and breasts. Being pregnant is truly a exciting time in a woman’s life, but this one aspect of child-bearing, however, is an unwelcome remembrance of an otherwise special moment.
An increase in weight and weight loss can also change the severity of your stretch marks. It is critical to keep yourself hydrated, as this will encourage 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 development of muscle is built up quickly. An effective stretch mark removal cream can offer the skin additional flexibility and help deter stretch mark development.
A segment of the population especially prone to stretch marks is teenagers who experience rapid growth as they become young adults. 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 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.
