We’ve all seen them and many of us have struggled with them ourselves. Striae, more commonly known as stretch marks, are frequently seen in men and women of all shapes, sizes and ages. The unwelcome marks typically develop on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and upper arms. These days, they are a popular topic in health and beauty circles, especially among women who are searching for ways to banish them forever.
According to the Mayo Clinic, stretch marks are caused quite literally by stretching of the skin in certain scenarios including:
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Pregnancy- stretching of the skin coupled with hormonal factors
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Weight gain- significant weight gain, as well as muscle gain in body builders and growth spurts in adolescents
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Medication use- chronic use of steroids, certain hormone therapies or corticosteroid creams, lotions and pills
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Conditions or diseases- adrenal gland diseases, hereditary (genetic) disorders and hormone disorders such as Cushing disease
While there is no proven method to prevent the multiple factors that can lead to the development of stretch marks, there’s no need to worry if you have them. The red and pink marks will fade into white or grey slivers with time. They will never disappear completely, but there are additional steps you can take to help them diminish faster. Here are three ways to handle those unsightly, unwanted stretch marks.
#1: Evaluate nutritional factors.
It goes without saying that nutrition has a big impact on your overall health and the appearance of your entire body. Your skin is certainly no exception. When it comes to reducing the appearance of stretch marks, your first step should be to look at your diet. You need to drink plenty of water to maintain moisture, softness and elasticity in the skin, reducing the likelihood of stretch marks developing in the first place. Because caffeine can increase your risk of stretch marks, it’s important to drink just as much or more water than tea, coffee or soda.
Stretch marks can be a result of deficiencies in your diet, so you can help yourself by making a conscious effort to consume foods that are good for your skin, including:
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Protein-rich foods, like chicken or eggs
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Vitamin-packed foods, such as carrots, citrus and milk for vitamins A, C and D
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Foods that are high in zinc, such as fish and nuts
#2: Consider over-the-counter lotions and creams.
If you are pregnant, you already know that you are at risk for the development of stretch marks on your growing belly. In that case, you may want to speak with your physician or pharmacist about preventative creams he or she can recommend. Many over-the-counter options will be available at your community pharmacy.
#3: Look at treatment options.
While stretch marks can be a major cosmetic concern for many, they are harmless and do not require medical treatment. If you decide to consult a dermatologist, you should be aware that while certain treatments are available, none are 100% effective in completely and permanently removing the marks.
When seeking treatment, it’s critical that you are open and honest about your medical history. Because medications can cause stretch marks, a healthcare professional will need to know about everything you are taking or have taken, including steroids and hormone treatments. A physician may recommend various options for medical treatment including tretinoin cream, laser therapy or microdermabrasion.
Not all products and medications are created equal. If you have any questions regarding a stretch mark remedy you are considering, just stop by [company_short]. As your local healthcare experts, we’re always happy to discuss your medical history, nutritional plan and lifestyle choices to determine recommendations for products available in the pharmacy. As always, please give us a call at [phone_main] with any questions.