What Are Stretch Marks And How Average Are They?
Stretch marks are fairly common. Stretch marks are often described as the thin, narrow bands or lines in an off-color hue in the surface of the skin. The bands are more often than not parallel to each other or close together. Also recognized as striae, a form of skin scarring. The medical term for stretch marks are striae atrophicae, vergetures, stria distensae, striae cutis distensae, striae graviadrum (caused by pregnancy), linea atrophicae, or linea albicante.
What Causes It?
The prime culprit for the occurrence of stretch marks is the tear in the dermis that is brought about prompt growth during adolescence stage and a sudden gain of weight during pregnancy or muscle building. Changes of hormone levels linked with puberty, pregnancy, muscle building and hormonal replacement therapy are found contributory to the formation of stretch marks. The glucocorticoid hormones obviate the fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers essential to keep abruptly rising skin taut. Absence of these supportive material leads to dermal and epidermal tearing and eventually stretch marks. Other factors that influence skin’s capacity to withstand stretching forces includes heredity, nourishment and exercise.
Signs and Symptoms
In general, stretch marks begin to appear as a reddish line that will just fade in time. They can be seen anywhere in the body, though it may be prevalent in areas where there are greater fat deposits. That includes abdomen, breasts, upper arms, underarms, back, thighs, hips, and buttocks. Despite the fact that it is not known to cause any body system malfunctions, it can affect the self-esteem of a person.
Solution to Stretch Marks
For anyone who still has no stretch marks, avoiding sudden stretch of the skin will avoid one from growing it. Appropriate diet and exercise would be of assistance.
According to skin experts, regular application of lotions and creams containing vitamin A,E and collagen can considerably benefit the skin. Vitamins A and E are required components in skin maintenance. Scientifically, they help speed up the development of new skin cells, therefore reducing the formation of stretch marks. Moreover, massaging the skin improves capillary circulation and promotes new tissue growth. However this will not guarantee a 100 percent protection. Remember factors that cannot be modified such as genetics and hormone level contribute in developing stretch marks.
With the advent of advanced technology, there are various treatments available to eradicate acquired stretch marks. It includes the following:
Laser treatment
Radio frequency partnered with 585-nm pulsed laser treatment gives a satisfactory improvement in stretch marks. Fractional laser re-surfing is one of the newest trends today in laser application. It uses distributed pulses of light that zaps the striae, creating microscopic wounds. It forms new collagen and epithelium thus resulting to an enhanced texture of the skin.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure that involves the scientific erosion of the top layer of the skin with the use of Co2 or Erbium: Yag laser. It removes stria by creating a wound so new collagen and epithelium will be produced.
Prescription of alpha hydroxy acid and retinoids
Alpha hydroxy acid is popular on its capacity to remove stretch marks. They are found in just any creams and lotions for striae. These acids are potent exfoliating compounds, thus when applied to the skin, they break the proteins that holds dead skin cells together and subsequently allows newer, younger skin to appear. Retinoids like AHAs are effective when appropriately absorb by the skin. They control the skin cell growth nearer the surface of the epidermis. Accelerating this growth will help remove stretch marks.
If you are so anguished of your stretch marks, do not fret because there are new treatments and modalities available to eliminate those ugly skin lines forever. Talk to your skin doctor for the best treatment modality for you.
Looking for the latest stretch mark removal cream that is proven to work? Visit this website to find trusted trilastin-sr reviews to help you make an informed verdict on what creams to use for your skin.