How to Prevent and Get Rid of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks can appear on almost all parts of your body. Most commonly on the upper arms and legs, breasts, belly, back, butt, and sides. They can be caused by weight gain, weight loss, pregnancy, growth spurts, increase or decrease in muscle, and sometime just naturally and without any size change. There are a few ways that you can prevent and get rid of stretch marks, follow the tips below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dermatologist.
• Lotions.
• Internet Access.
• Water.

1. PREVENTION.
   Like the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you are anticipating stretching or relaxing of your skin (i.e weight loss, or pregnancy)start early. Massaging the areas of your skin with a rich lotion containing Shea and or cocoa butter. You should do this after every shower or bath and even multiple times a day. Keeping yourself hydrated by drinking enough water helps as well.

2. TREATMENTS.
   A dermatologist, or "skin doctor" can offer you the most effective and proven methods of getting rid of stretch marks. You need to start seeking out remedies in the earliest stages of the stretch marks, usually when they are darker shades or red and brown. The longer you let this problem go, the harder it is to get rid of it. The doctor may offer you prescription creams and ointments, depending on your other medical conditions. There are also a various number of laser treatments available from your Dermatologist. These include but are not limited to: excimer, fractional photothermolysis, fractionated, vascular, and pulsed dye laser therapy. Your doctor will inform you of which treatment is best and safest for you. Another option may be dermabrasion for light stretch marks. There are many over the counter products, but not all are proven to reduce stretch marks at all.

3. USEFUL PRODUCTS.
   Here are a list of some products or ingredients that are helpful in reducing and getting rid or stretch marks.
   *Tretinoin (topically)
   *Retinoids
   *Vitamin C
   *Glycolic acid
   *Wheat germ oil
   
   Alternative Products:
   *Botanical body wraps
   *Olive oil
   *Vitamins
   *Fruit acids

Tips & Warnings

• Keep hydrated by drinking water and applying skin lotions.
• Try using rich lotions.
• Using a sunless tan lotion helps conceal stretch marks.
• Have your partner help you reach places you can't! (Especially if you are expecting!)
• Consult with your Dermatologist.
• Discontinue use of anything if even the slightest reaction occurs (unless otherwise directed by your doctor).

[mello10]

on 12/2/2009 I wondered where those stretch marks came from! Thanks

[mello10]

on 12/2/2009 I wondered where those stretch marks came from! Thanks

[susanhorton72]

on 10/8/2009 Thanks for so many options to look into for removing stretch marks.

[barbarastanley]

on 10/7/2009 I wish I had had this advice on stretch marks earlier. Thanks.