Stretch marks are scars that are caused by a combination of skin stretching and hormone surges, and are fairly common during pregnancy and growth spurts. Stretch marks also occur as a result of rapid skin stretching due to weight gain or weight lifting. Stretch marks are completely natural and typically painless, but there are certain instances in which deep stretch marks can cause itching and pain. Stretch marks are typically white to purple in color, and vary in length and size. While there is no 100 percent cure for stretch marks, there are a variety of treatments and natural remedies that work well to minimize their appearance and prevent new stretch marks from forming. Natural remedies are a much better option for stretch mark treatment than surgery, as they nourish the skin from the inside out with healthy emollients and healthy nutrients. Stretch marks most frequently appear on the following areas:
Stomach
Stretch marks are commonly found on the stomach, and they are typically vertical in appearance. They are caused by pregnancy and rapid weight gain, and are typically purple in appearance. Pregnancy stretch marks can be minimized as well as prevented with the application of cocoa butter and Vitamin E.
Thighs
The inner thighs are a common area for stretch marks, and typically occur in children going through puberty. Puberty caused growth spurts that in turn release a high amount of hormones. The hormone release combined with the rapid stretching of the skin leads to stretch marks on the inner thighs. Thigh stretch marks are easy to conceal, and typically fade over time. They can also be easily treated and minimized with the application of cocoa butter and Vitamin E, as well as creams that contain retinol, the purest form of Vitamin A.
Hips
Stretch marks are often found on the outer hips and can be vertical or horizontal in nature. Stretch marks on the hips are typically caused by weight gain, hormonal changes and growth spurts, and are not as visible as those on the stomach. Similar to stomach and thigh stretch marks, hip stretch marks are easily treatable with all natural stretch mark creams that contain healing emollients such as Vitamin E, cocoa butter, lanolin and shea butter.
Arms
The outer arms are not as common an area as the stomach, thighs and hips when it comes to stretch marks, and they typically occur when the skin of the arms is stretched from a rapid increase in muscle size or weight gain. Weight lifters who use maximal weights to increase muscle mass are particularly susceptible to stretch marks on the biceps, and they are also treatable with all natural emollient creams. Weight lifters who are hoping to avoid stretch marks can do so by alternating maximal weights with standard weights, as well as changing their weight lifting routine from maximum strength training to a more balanced daily workout.
Conclusion
While stretch marks are completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of, many individuals are uncomfortable with the appearance of stretch marks, especially the more visible marks on the stomach and arms. While there is no 100 percent cure for stretch marks, they can be minimized and prevented with a variety of natural remedies. If you are someone who is looking for a natural way to minimize your stretch marks, you can start by applying a thick emollient cream that is specifically designed for stretch marks each night. It is important to apply the cream at night, as the skin naturally regenerates itself during rest. Within a short period of time, you will be truly amazed with the results.
