Stretch Marks usually appear as white, red or pink lines on several areas of the body on the surface of the skin. This skin condition is not dangerous but is often considered to interfere body's appearance.
White, red or pink lines that usually appear on the breasts, upper abdomen, upper arms, thighs and buttocks are commonly referred to as stretch marks. Stretch marks can occur due to the skin enlarges or shrinks rapidly. Not only the elderly or adults, but teenagers can also experience these scratches caused by several factors and most patients feel unconfident about stretch marks. So, what causes the stretch marks to occur? How to prevent and treat stretch marks? Let's find your answer through this article!
The Cause of Stretch Mark
Striae or known as stretch mark is a skin condition in which lines or streaks appear when the skin stretches and shrinks rapidly. Stretch marks usually occur due to rapid changes in body weight, either up or down.
Thus, the sudden and rapid change are causing collagen and elastin to break down; collagen and elastin are proteins that work to support the skin, so when these proteins break down, the skin stretches and red or white lines known as stretch marks appear and noticeable.
However, not everyone experiences stretch marks. Some people who have little collagen tend to be prone to this condition. In addition to sudden changes in body weight, fluctuations or hormonal imbalances are also one of the causes of stretch marks. Plus, genetics from the family plays a role in causing this scratches. Therefore, stretch marks can be caused by several things, including:
Family history of having stretch marks
Pregnancy
Gain or lose weight quickly
Using corticosteroids
Growth spurt that occurs during puberty
How to Prevent Stretch Marks?
As already mentioned, not everyone will experience stretch marks. Only some people with certain skin conditions are prone to getting stretch mark lines. Nevertheless, there are several ways you can do to minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
1. Maintaining a balance of body weight
Changes in weight suddenly and rapidly become a significant factor in this condition. Therefore, maintaining a stable weight is something that can be done. If you really want to lose weight, do it gradually in a healthy way.
2. Consume foods rich in nutrients
Stretch marks can occur due to lack of nutrition in certain areas. Eating foods that can improve skin health will be very helpful. So, let's make sure the food you eat includes foods that are rich in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and protein.
3. Keep the hydration of the body
Drinking enough water can be the easiest thing to keep the body hydrated. When the body is properly hydrated, the skin will also be hydrated and produce a smooth texture. The Institute of Medicine recommends meeting the daily intake of mineral water and avoiding caffeinated drinks because it can increase the risk of developing stretch marks.
4. Treat the stretch marks as soon as possible
It is inevitable that stretch marks are a skin condition that is not easy to handle. Therefore, treating stretch marks that have just appeared or are still beginning as soon as possible can minimize their severity. If you notice the line of red or white stretch marks, come see a dermatologist and discuss the proper treatment to do.
How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks?
Not an easy thing, the success rate of removing stretch marks lies in how severe the lines appear on the surface of your skin. At IORA Clinic, we have several options to treat this case, including:
Collagen Stimulator
Collagen stimulator is a procedure that involves injection. After the doctor sees the condition of your stretch marks directly, a collagen stimulator is one option that will be offered. This procedure aims to restore the collagen that is gradually lost over time. The work of collagen stimulator is to stimulate collagen in the body.
Salmon DNA
Just like a collagen stimulator, Salmon DNA is a procedure that involves injection. With a special formula that is good for the skin, Salmon DNA is able to rejuvenate the skin, and restore moisture and elasticity to the skin.
Laser
Unlike other options, lasers utilize advanced light-based technology that can improve skin conditions. With adjustable setting, laser treatment is able to remove the outer layer of skin, leading to a newer and smoother skin. Also, laser treatment helps to increase a production of collagen in the skin, which smoothen out the raised scars of stretch marks.
Topical Cream
Topical creams are a straightforward treatment, especially for pregnant women to prevent the lines. With expert concoction, topical creams are sufficient to lower the risk of some cases of stretch marks. Just apply the cream regularly during the day and at night.
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