There have been few myths surrounding the development of Stretch marks on your skin. Men and women can both develop stretch marks but they do not pose any serious concern on your health. However, most people find them disturbing as they can be a huge cosmetic concern to some people.
Stretch marks occur due to skin stretch on the body appearing on the stomach, thighs, hips, upper arms, breasts and the buttocks. Stretch marks can be a result of pregnancy, puberty and weight gain. They tend to fade over time and with the treatment they can become less noticeable over a period of time. At their first appearance, stretch marks can be itchy and can be red, purple or dark brown
Common causes of stretch marks include:
- Pregnancy causing your skin to stretch.
- Weight gain in men and women
- Certain medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol in the body) and Marfan syndrome (genetic disease that causes weakness of the skin fibers)
- Prolonged use of corticosteroid creams which reduces the levels of collagen; a protein that is responsible for skin elasticity.
Healthy Tips to minimise risk
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated
- Maintain a healthy weight even during pregnancy
- Eat food rich in vitamins A and C
- Speak to health care professional before applying any cream to treat stretch marks while you are pregnant.
- Avoid use of tanning to clear stretch marks.
- Consume diet low in sugar.
- The use of natural oils and stretch marks creams may help make your skin feel softer.
- Speak to your dermatologist if you feel concerned.