Stretch marks affect men and women of every skin type, size, and age. Although they aren’t painful and don’t put you at risk for health issues, stretch marks are considered to be unsightly and bothersome. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent and reduce the look of stretch marks. There are also options for stretch mark removal, including cosmetic procedures.
What Is a Stretch Mark, Exactly?
Stretch marks are a type of scar that forms when rapid shrinkage or stretching occurs in the skin. Elastin allows your skin to expand and stretch, and collagen maintains skin firmness and strength. When rapid stretching occurs, both the elastin and collagen in the skin rupture and stretch marks can form.
Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
Yes, it’s possible to prevent stretch marks from forming. There are also risk factors for developing them. Females are more likely to develop stretch marks. Pregnancy or being overweight increases your risk, as does having a family history of stretch marks. Genetic disorders like Marfan Syndrome can also increase risk.
Preventing Stretch Marks
Certain foods, supplements, and habits can help prevent the formation of stretch marks.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can help your skin to stay soft and supple, which can prevent the formation of stretch marks. Cold-water fish like sardines and salmon contain Omega-3s, as do flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Fruits and Vegetables
Including fresh fruits and vegetables of every color in your diet at each meal will provide your skin with the nutrients it needs for strength and flexibility.
Hydration
Adequate hydration is essential for skin health and elasticity, and it benefits the entire body. Spring water and fruits like watermelon and oranges can hydrate the body. Lettuce and celery also contain the liquid and electrolytes needed to regulate its functions.
Another way to hydrate the skin is to moisturize it. Creams containing natural ingredients like Vitamin E, shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil can help preserve the skin’s elasticity.
Weight
Fast weight gain is a common stretch mark culprit. Preventing unwanted weight gain with moderate weekly exercise can be an effective way to prevent stretch mark formation.
Stretch Mark Removal
If you already have stretch marks, there is a way to remove them. Morpheus8 is a system that’s being used with much success. It delivers microneedling and radiofrequency energy into the skin. The micro-needles cause tiny injuries, which cause the body to respond by sending collagen and elastin to the site. RF energy is also delivered deep into the skin for a stronger response. These two actions combined offer the highest chance of complete stretch mark removal.
The Stretch Mark Solution
The great news is that—thanks to Morpheus8—you don’t have to live with stretch marks; all you have to do is get in touch with Dr. Peter H. Grossman. One of the area’s best cosmetic surgeons, Dr. Grossman has helped many clients drastically improve the look of their skin with Morpheus8 treatment. Learn more about getting rid of your unwanted stretch marks by visiting Grossman Plastic Surgery today.