When you are pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes. One of the most common is the appearance of stretch marks. Stretch marks usually appear on the hips, chest, bottom, thighs, and stomach and they are not only common in pregnancy, but they can also appear in any phrase of a person's life.
Stretch marks, also known as striae gravidarum or striae distensae, are genetic. So if your parents or anyone in your family has them, then there is a chance that you will have them too, especially after pregnancy.
Stretch marks during pregnancy
Stretch marks will slowly appear once you are in your 13th week of pregnancy, and it will develop until you reach your 21st week of pregnancy. Around 90% of pregnant women get yellow, red or tan colored streaks, and you will notice them all lined across your breasts, belly, hips, butt, and thighs.
What causes stretch marks?
Stretch marks are small tears in the supporting layers of the tissue under the skin, during pregnancy, your skin is pulled to its limits. Genetics play a major role in the appearance of stretch marks in your body, so if your mother had them, chances are you will have them too. The sudden weight gain of pregnant women can make them prone to stretch marks if your skin has poor elasticity, then the deeper the stretch marks will be.
Can you prevent the appearance of stretch marks?
Preventing the development of stretch marks on your body during and after pregnancy can be very difficult. But you can still lessen their appearance and use treatments and medication as maintenance so that they will slowly fade away in time.
There are a lot of over the counter stretch mark creams that you can buy, but it is important to keep in mind that there is no miracle cure. It will take a lot of time and patience to minimize the visibility of the marks. The most recommended treatment is the application of retinoid cream. It is a medication that is rich in vitamin A and your skin will improve if you apply it religiously.
This is the perfect cream to use if the stretch marks are fresh because it can help rebuild the collagen in your skin and it can make the stretch marks blend in with the rest of your skin tone. Take note that retinoid creams should not be used while you are pregnant or while you are breastfeeding your baby. It is best to talk to your doctor about applying the cream before you buy it.
You can also nourish your skin from the inside. Eat foods that are rich in vitamin C, it is an antioxidant that promotes healing in your skin and it replenishes your body tissue. You also need to stay hydrated for healthy and glowing skin.
Aside from creams and a healthy diet, there are also dermatological procedures that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Laser therapies are available for those who want to minimize the color and the depth of their marks.
This procedure stimulates elastin or collagen in your skin for it to grow and go back to its original shape. There are different types of laser therapy and the sessions will depend on the condition of your stretch marks. Consult your dermatologist so you will know treatment is right for you.
