What are they?

Stretch marks, clinically referred to as striae, are the result of the skin tissues stretching suddenly and dramatically, such as during pregnancy, and they can also appear during growth spurts, such as puberty. Non-discriminatory, stretch marks can affect both women and men, and may appear on the abdomen, upper arms, chest, lower back, hips, thighs and buttocks. These marks are initially reddish to brownish-tan in color, and should eventually fade to pale white or silver streaks. In addition, the texture of a stretch mark is generally raised, making them visible on the skin.

How do you get them?

Stretch marks occur in the layer of skin between the epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue called the dermis, which not only contains oil glands, sweat glands, hair follicles and nerve endings, but also collagen and elastin, the proteins that support skin and enable it to retain its shape. When skin is stretched suddenly to accommodate rapid growth or weight gain, the collagen and elastin can break down, producing the raised, reddish mark.

Stretch marks may also result from abnormal collagen formation, which can occur naturally or may be a side-effect of certain medications or chemicals. People who use cortisone treatments or medications for a prolonged period of time, or suffer from diabetes or Cushing's disease may be more prone to stretch marks, as well.

Treatment

Although eliminating stretch marks entirely is time consuming and often, not possible, there are numerous options available to aid in reducing their appearance on the skin. While medical procedures such as laser removal, dermabrasion or chemical peels come closest to eliminating almost all traces of stretch marks, these processes are often quite expensive and, are not suitable for all skin types. For a less expensive, more user friendly option, choose an over-the-counter lotion, cream or gel that contains ingredients known to aid in refining the appearance and texture of stretch marks. A few ingredients to look for are: alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), palmitoyl oligopeptide, glucosamine HCL, shea butter, cocoa butter, almond oil and vitamin E.

Now, what about the best option of all: not having to treat stretch marks in the first place? In the case of stretch marks, prevention is truly the best cure, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with proper diet and exercise is a necessary step to prevent stretch marks. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, avoid excess caffeine consumption, and eat a wide variety of vitamin-enriched foods. In particular, eat foods rich in zinc, such as nuts and fish, foods rich in vitamins A and C, such as carrots and oranges, and foods rich in protein, such as eggs.

Product Picks

Janson Beckett AlphaDerma CE contains vitamin C Ester, DMAE, elastin, collagen and alpha lipoic acid to help repair skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks, while StriVectin SD attacks the appearance of stretch marks with palmitoyl oligopeptide and cocoa butter. Clinical trials indicate that with proper use, StriVectin SD successfully reduces the depth, length and discoloration of stretch marks, even older, established marks.

If you are pregnant, or thinking about having a baby, arm your body against stretch marks with a product that is safe not only for mom, but for baby, as well: Mustela Stretch Marks Double Action.

Special considerations

Women who are pregnant should refrain from using trentinoin, or any retinoid-based products, including plant based creams which feature essential oils or herbal extracts and should consult with their doctor before starting any skin care regimen to treat stretch marks.

Learn everything you need to know about anti-aging skincare in our Anti-Aging Handbook.