They result from over stretching of the skin, which disrupts the normal production of collagen, causing a scar. Stretch marks occur in the dermis, the resilient middle layer that helps the skin retain its shape. Once the dermis has been stretched continuously over time, certain parts of it "overstretch", losing all elasticity and causing the connective fibres within to break. The result is what we know as stretch marks. Over 90% of us get them and 100% of us don't want them. Here are some tried (personally) and true ways to lighten and possible even get rid of those pesky marks.Exfoliate! By removing the top layer of dead skin, it stimulates new skin growth while making your skin appear smoother.
Vitamin E! This vitamin, found in many commercial body lotions, helps improve circulation which helps in the healing of scars and stretch marks. It also naturally promotes the growth of new skin cells.
Cocoa and Shea Butters. Unrefined shea and cocoa butters contain an abundance of healing ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins and a unique fatty acid profile which restores the skin's natural elasticity. Shea butter enables your skin to absorb moisture from the air, and as a result, it becomes softer and stays moisturized for longer. It also contains natural sunscreen properties and anti-inflammatory agents.
Self Tanning products have also proven helpful in lightening stretch marks and scars.
While none of these methods are garanteed to get rid of stretch marks they will hopefully help to make your skin appear smoother and your stretch marks lighter.
6 comments:
Y'know, I thought my stretch marks were finally fading, and then I lost some weight, and now they look even worse! Ech.
:(
I tried using Strivectin, it's supposed to be super good. Though it's expensive and you can only get it in the states.
I kept forgetting to put it on but my strech marks eventually lightened up on their own.
I used Calypso Cocoa Butter (available at Walmart in a 2L bottle for under 5$) religiously after I got some on my chest while pregnant the first time, and they went away completely, I still do have some in other areas but I've been lazy with the cocoa butter lately. :S
I'll have to go to Walmart! haha. I got lucky and got them all over my poor overstretched belly, my butt/hips/thighs and a few on my chest. I thought I got lucky after none by my 7th month of pregnancy but then one day I woke up with 3 on each side of my belly and it got worse from there! They're still pretty noticeable but not quite as bad (even though it's only been 4 months)
Yeah i had the same experience as cassie, now i have them everywhere .. but they have faded in 9 months .. I got the cocoa butter stuff jess talked about here's hoping that it works!
I didn't get any marks till the last couple months too. But I massaged that cocoa butter in till my skin wouldn't soak it up anymore. And my man even noticed a difference the next day so I kept it up and they dissapeared! BUT, this was when they marks were fresh... not sure if that makes a difference or not... Good luck Candace, and don't forget to exfoliate! LOL
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