Although stretch marks are more common in women than in men, they pose an aesthetic issue for everyone. These marks which tend to appear more on certain areas of our skin, are closely related to the natural production of collagen and elastin in the body.
In this article we explain what they are, why we get stretch marks occur and which are the best remedies and treatments to aid removal and show off perfect, smooth skin. Keep reading!
What are stretch marks and why do they appear?
Stretch marks are sunken lines or marks that appear on the surface of our skin due to a lack of collagen. When they first appear they have a reddish colour and over time can turn to whit marks on our skin.
Some of the most common reasons for stretch marks are hormonal changes, pregnancy or sudden changes in weight in a very short period of time which can stretch our skin quickly.
Treatments and remedies to aid the appearance and removal of stretch marks
If you wish to consider other options and natural products before trying laser removal or want to reduce the appearance before laser treatments, here are a few home remedies which can help fade these marks.
Although there are many techniques, you should know that it is easier to treat or remove red stretch marks rather than white ones, since if they are red they are newer and therefore more likely to disappear completely with treatment.
Diet rich in vitamins and minerals
Eating a healthy diet can really help the disappearance of stretch marks on your skin. Try drinking plenty of water to keep the epidermis hydrated and increase its elasticity. Likewise, we recommend foods rich in vitamins E, A and C, zinc, Omega 3 and of course collagen.
Rose hip Oil
Rose hip oil is one of the best oils to use as a treatment to get rid of a stretch mark, for treating scars and improving the appearance of skin. As well as helping to reduce stretch marks considerably, it also prevents them, since it promotes the natural synthesis of collagen in the body.
Rose hip oil is recommended to women who are pregnant. Applying it on the abdomen from the beginning of pregnancy is a great treatment to prevent the appearance of stretch marks in this area.
Almond oil
Almond oil is also used to protect the skin and as a treatment as it gives the upper layer elasticity and resistance. This product is somewhat oily, so we recommend applying it to skin at night or after showering for best results.
Moisturisers
Although it sounds very basic treatment, moisturisers are perfect for preventing and treating stretch marks on the skin in their early stages. Dry skin is one of the main causes of the appearance of stretch marks, so well-cared and well-hydrated skin can easily combat any type of mark on the body and is one of the best treatments you can get.
Lemon scrub
Using an exfoliator as a treatment is also a good long-term solution to improve the appearance of both red and white stretch marks on your skin. This product promotes circulation thereby stimulating collagen production. In addition, it will also help remove dead skin cells allowing the moisturiser to penetrate your skin better. You can of course get a decent exfoliator at most supermarkets or pharmacies.
Anti-stretch mark creams
If you notice your stretch marks do not disappear from your body or fade with home remedies, you can resort to products manufactured particularly as treatments for stretch marks. You can find many anti stretch mark creams in pharmacies or on the internet and they offer positive results in just a few weeks.
Professional treatments
There are certain stretch marks, particularly white ones that seem to resist all kinds of home remedies and dermatological treatments. If this is your case and they are bothering you then there is also the option of resorting to aesthetic medicine for stretch mark removal. In our opinion, the best treatment you can undergo is laser treatment since it is the most effective way to permanently eliminate any type of stretch mark.