Stretch marks appear commonly during pregnancy and it is common issue of discussion during pregnancy. Stretching occurs during pregnancy because as the baby grows inside the abdomen expands the skin of abdomen and its nearby organs. Stretch marks appear due to weight gain as skin stretch beyond its limit.

Hormones that are responsible for stretch marks or stretching of skin:


1.Relaxin: This hormone soften the ligament and connective tissue for flexibility as flexibility is important for the growth of growing baby in the womb.
2.Cortisol: This hormone weakens dermis layer of the skin for effective stretching.

How to remove stretch marks ?

1.Hyaluronic acid: this chemical helps to hydrate the skin and improve the skin structure which ultimately helps in removal of stretch marks.
2.Moisturizers: these may not remove stretch marks but brightens the skin and makes the skin soft and hydrated. Always go for moisturizers containing cocoa butter, vitamin E.

3.Laser therapy: lasers target stretched skin and triggers collagen production which tighten the skin and helps to regain its shape.
4.Chemical peels: these are the chemical solution that remove the top layers of the skin, it enables the skin to produce healthy new cells and minimize the appearance of stretch marks.

NOTE*: This methods are for informational purpose. Kindly take a medical consultation before using.

How to remove stretch marks permanently at home ?

There is no permanent way of removing stretch marks but there are some methods which can be used at home to minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
1.Moisturizers: moisturizers helps to keep skin hydrated and improve its elasticity. Apply thick layer of moisturizer regularly to observe effective result.
2.Lemon juice: Apply lemon juice for about 10 minutes on stretch marks as it has bleaching and antimicrobial properties which enhances healthier skin and remove marks.

3.Vitamin E: it has the properties of collagen productions thus improving skin elasticity and regular use of vitamin E may lead to brighten skin by removing dark spots.
Have you ever noticed most of the cosmetic products include Vitamin E as their main ingredient.
4.Aloe-vera: Apply pure aloe-vera gel to the stretch marks and it moisturizes the skin.

5.Egg whites: egg whites are high in collagen content and collagen is necessary for skin as it promotes its original shape. Applying egg whites on skin helps to repair of skin, improving its tone and rigidity. It also helps to promote the growth of new skin cells.
6.Sugar scrubs: sugar scrubs are made by mixing sugar with oil or it can be mixed with lemon. Sugar scrubs helps to hydrate the skin and scrubbing gently on skin improve blood circulation giving skin a healthier touch.

Areas stretch marks can affect

  • Abdomen: often seen in pregnant women.
  • Breast: occur during puberty or hormonal changes
  • Thighs: often observe in both men and women due to weight gain.
  • Back: appear when height and weight increases significantly.
  • Buttocks: appear in those who build muscles in this area.
  • Arms: appear in bodybuilders and those who gain weight in their body.

Myths about stretch marks

Myth.1.Only pregnant women gets stretch marks.
Fact: Stretch marks occur due to weight gain or muscle growth, it is not compulsory to only occur in pregnant females. These can occur in any gender.

Myth.2.Only women get stretch marks
Fact: Men can also have stretch marks, during their weight gain and muscle growth. These appear when skin grows out of its limit.

Myth.3.Stretch marks are permanent
Fact: It is true that they do not disappear completely but these can be faded out through the period of time by using proper treatment.

Myth.4.Stretch marks are sign of poor health
Fact: it doesn’t means poor health of body, these appear only because of skin stretching and hormonal changes in the body, these are completely normal.

FAQs

1.What are stretch marks?
These are lines of different color may be red, purple or black appear on skin during pregnancy and rapid muscle growth. Skin extends beyond its limit resulting in marks.

2.What causes stretch marks?
These may be caused due to stretching of skin in pregnancy by the growing baby or by rapid weight gain. Collagen and elastin in skin also affects these marks.

3.Can weight loss cause stretch marks?
Yes, losing weight can result in these marks as skin takes time to regain its original shape and appearance.

4.Do stretch marks change color?
Yes, stretch marks appear to be purple, red or black in color and these get fade to lighter color as treatment continues.

NOTE: The methods suggested above are for informational purpose only, consult your doctor before using.