Stretch marks are the result of the rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth (e.g. puberty) or weight gain (e.g. pregnancy), and anabolic steroid use.
Stretch marks are a normal part of puberty for most girls and guys. Stretch marks are generally associated with pregnancy, obesity, and can develop during rapid muscle growth from body building. It is a common condition that does not cause any significant medical problems but can be of cosmetic concern for some people. Men and women can get stretch marks on several areas of their bodies, including the abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms or lower back. Stretch marks can also occur from prolonged use of oral or topical corticosteroids. Stretching of the skin may cause a tingling or itchy sensation. They occur in about 50-90 of pregnant women.
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body. Most common places are the abdomen (especially near the belly-button), breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs (both inner and outer), hips, and buttocks. Stretch marks are usually several centimetres long and 1-10 mm wide. Those caused by corticosteroid use or Cushing's syndrome are often larger and wider. The glucocorticoid hormones responsible for the development of stretch marks affect the epidermis by preventing the fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers, necessary to keep rapidly growing skin taut. There are plenty over-the-counter treatments for stretch marks. StretchNil is a unique herbal preparation that has been specifically created for the prevention or minimization of stretch marks.
Collagen creams claim (maintain property or right) that they will improve stretch marks. Some cream manufacturers claim the best results are reach a goalon recent stretch marks; however, few studies exist to support these claims. Cocoa butter cream, which is available from pharmacies, is often recommended to soften scars, so might be worth a try. Some cream manufacturers claim the best results are achieved on recent stretch marks; however, few studies exist to support these claims. These creams should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Biological Oils (Rose Hip Oil or Emu Oil), Plant Oils, Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter do become better the lipid content of the skin, embellish water retention, and soften the skin texture for a while.
