Tips For Reducing Unsightly Stretch Marks

Tips For Avoiding And Reducing The Appearance Of Stretch Marks

Sudden weight gain, pregnancy and even just a quick growth spurt can all lead to unsightly stretch marks. These most commonly make their unwanted appearance on the legs, stomach, bum, and thighs. However, one doesn’t need to resort to covering up for the rest of one’s life, there are a number of things you can do to prevent stretch marks or minimize their appearance.

Understanding What Stretch Marks Are

Stretch marks are red, brown or white lines on the skin that are caused when the tissue under your skin tears, normally due to the increased tightness caused by sudden weight gain or pregnancy. They are typically more visible on very fair skin.

Whether or not you will develop stretch marks is often genetic, however there are some things you can do to help prevent them.

Consistent Moisturising

Moisturizing regularly with cocoa or Shea butter will help keep your skin supple and elastic. Regular Moisturising also helps to keep dry skin itch free. While no stretch mark cream is a miracle cure look for one that is hydrating with added Vitamin E. You can also add a nourishing oil to your daily bath.

If you have developed stretch marks during weight gain or pregnancy and have since lost the weight, you can try reducing stretch marks with a skin serum or gel designed to tighten and lift the skin. It is best to start working on reducing the appearance of stretch marks while they are still red because as they fade, they are harder to get rid of.

Drink Lots Of Water

Staying hydrated will keep your skin soft and help to reduce your likelihood of getting stretch marks. On the other hand, caffeine loaded beverages, such as coffee and certain cool drinks can actually dehydrate the skin and increase your chance of developing stretch marks.

Herbal tea is a great alternative to coffee in the mornings and evenings, not to mention the whole host of added benefits a drink like green tea will bring! It’s a great drink anytime, and if you sign up right now for some gaming fun, you can even drink while you play.

Eat Right

Small changes in your diet can help to reduce the likelihood of developing stretch marks. Vitamin C rich foods such as green vegetables, like green peppers, spinach, cabbage, broccoli and Brussel sprouts, all help to keep your skin healthy from the inside out. These collagen rich foods help keep your skin elastic and soft, also adding to reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Some other foods that are a great source of Vitamin C include sweet potatoes, tomatoes and squash. Foods rich in Vitamin D and E are also a good option.

Stretch Marks Do Fade

Unfortunately, there is no fool proof way of getting rid of stretch marks and any place that tries to advertise otherwise is most likely a scam. The good news is that stretch marks do fade over time to a lighter grey or white and so become less noticeable.

Some medical solutions do reduce their appearance such as Retin-A or laser therapy may also be an option for you.