Stretch marks


Stretch marks are atrophic lesions due to the breakdown of elastic fibers at the level of the dermis. Stretch marks develop when the skin stretches or shrinks in a short period of time: these appear as linear scars, even several centimeters long, which run in parallel lines with each other.

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body, but most commonly they are found on the abdomen, breasts, biceps, thighs, hips, and buttocks.

Stretch marks are not usually preventable, in fact in most cases, many causal events (such as generic and mechanical stress during pregnancy or growth during puberty) are inevitable for many people. In any case, it should be remembered that stretch marks are harmless to health and are a natural part of the physical changes that most of us experience.


How to prevent stretch marks


Considering that early intervention is crucial for best results, strategies that can help prevent stretch marks include:


Cosmetic routine


The cosmetic strategy to prevent stretch marks must be put into practice especially in the "critical" phases (such as puberty and early pregnancy) and in periods of weight fluctuation.

Specific anti-stretch mark cosmetics – for example, based on hyaluronic acid or centella – are designed to act in a targeted way on the elasticity and firmness of the skin. This is why they should be used when stretch marks have not yet formed, with the aim of counteracting their appearance.

The beauty routine must therefore include the daily application of cosmetic products. Every other day, this practice can be preceded by a light exfoliation that allows you to eliminate devitalized cells and impurities, as well as stimulate the skin and make it more receptive to treatment.

Drier skin is more at risk of stretch marks. Regular application of moisturizing creams or oils can help moisturize the skin and improve its elasticity, which has a certain preventive effect. It is best to opt for moisturizers that contain ingredients such as antioxidants, centella,or vitamin C. Hyaluronic acid also helps moisturize the skin, which can be beneficial for stretch marks.

Gently and slowly massaging stretch marks daily with a moisturizer or oil could improve blood flow. Olive oil or almond oil can also promote skin hydration, although research has provided varying results to support their effectiveness against stretch marks.

In addition to the use of appropriate products to counteract the formation of stretch marks, it is equally important to periodically exfoliate the skin with appropriate cosmetics. Exfoliation, in fact, facilitates and accelerates the removal of dead cells on the skin surface, thus promoting cell renewal. In this way, it will be possible not only to prevent the formation of stretch marks, but it will also be possible to preserve the elasticity, firmness and hydration of the skin.


Lifestyle

To prevent stretch marks, it is important to practice regular physical activity: movement, in fact, not only makes the body toned and healthy, but also promotes blood supply and nourishment to the skin. The increased circulation and collagen that come with regular exercise help the skin stay strong and supple.

Changes in weight put a strain on the elasticity of the skin. The greatest danger is when you lose weight abruptly after gaining weight just as quickly. It must therefore be taken into account that proper nutrition is essential to keep the needle of the scales steady and avoid dangerous weight fluctuations.

The desired effect is achieved through proper food hygiene and a healthy sports habit.

In fact, a healthy and balanced diet, low in fat and rich in vitamins, can help the skin maintain its natural elasticity and firmness, thus preventing the appearance of the  blemishes.

Hydration helps to keep the skin healthy, so it is important to not be dehydratate .

Both during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is possible to apply cosmetics that help maintain the firmness and elasticity of the skin at a time when it is under great stress. Such a strategy may not be totally effective in preventing stretch marks, but they offer hydration and nourishment to the skin during the rapid increase and equally fast emptying of body volumes. Treatment is particularly useful before the fourth month of pregnancy and at least another three months after childbirth.

Prolonged conditions of physical and mental fatigue promote the production of cortisol, hormones capable of removing tone from the skin and promoting stretch marks.

Abstaining from smoking not only helps prevent stretch marks, but brings a series of countless benefits to the entire body.