Stretch marks are a common result of some of life’s biggest milestones. While they
may signify exciting things in your future, they’re typically not the most attractive
physical trait that one can gain.
With their jagged appearance and their prominent colors, stretch marks often bring
insecurities to those that have them. Below we’ll be discussing why they appear
and how you can get rid of them, so that you can regain your confidence as you
embrace your new body.
What Is A Stretch Mark?
A stretch mark is a type of imperfection or scar that appears when your skin
undergoes rapid shrinkage or expansion. They tend to be short to medium sized
uneven lines that differ in color from the rest of your skin.
Why Do Stretch Marks Appear?
Sudden changes in size cause the collagen and elastin within our skin to break.
These are the main proteins in our skin cells, and both are largely responsible for
supporting our skin’s appearance.
- Collagen helps provide strength and structure
- Elastin brings elasticity to the skin
Both work in tandem to ensure our skin stays smooth and flexible, which is why our
skin’s appearance can change if they are put under unexpected pressure.
Stretch marks are often the result of periods of fast body growth, such as puberty,
pregnancy, extreme weight gain or loss, or rapid muscle growth due to strength
training.
Not everyone will experience stretch marks, but those that do will likely want to
ease their appearance. Here are some ways you can bring back smooth, even
toned skin.
How To Get Rid Of Stretch Marks
As a type of scar, it’s important to note that some stretch marks will be permanent.
However, that doesn’t mean they will always be noticeable. Certain stretch marks
do fade away over time, gradually becoming less visible.
You can accelerate the process with the following tips:
-
Use the right skincare products. Certain ingredients have been found
effective for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. You can bring more collagen back into your skin by using collagen-based products, like our Kojic Acid & Collagen Body Lotion and our Kojic Acid & Collagen Skin Brightening Soap. Hyaluronic acid is another ingredient that has been found to make stretch marks less noticeable, as well as certain retinoids. We recommend the Kojic Acid Bump Eraser Body Scrub Soap and African Black Soap, both of which can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- Use them as soon as possible. Taking preventative measures ensures that your stretch marks won’t become more noticeable. It’s harder to treat old stretch marks, so make sure you’re applying your products as soon as you notice them appearing. You can also use these products if you’re at risk for stretch marks, like if you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and your bump isn’t showing yet.
- Be consistent. Make sure you’re using your specialized products daily for best results.
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Seek professional help. If these solutions aren’t enough, you can always turn to a dermatologist for more advanced treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels.
Stretch marks, at least in their most prominent form, aren’t something you have to live with forever. The right care can restore a beautiful, smooth, and even appearance to your skin; you just have to remember to be diligent!
