Some people are shocked to notice the rapid changes in their skin after having a baby. Others are surprised at how easily stretch marks can form from regular weight gain. Stretch marks are a nuisance and a common problem for people of all sizes. They can be triggered by inflammation, stretching, or significant hormonal changes to the body.
Despite how common the stretch mark problem may be, many people are really very much in the dark about they form and work. Below are five debunked stretch mark myths.
- "Stretch marks develop because the skin stretches."
Stretching skin is only one of the many reasons marks can form. The adrenal gland stimulates the production of glucocorticoids and other hormones. When the hormone levels aren’t balanced, a person can develop stretch marks.
Stretch marks can develop due to insufficient amounts of hormones that stimulate the production of the elastin fibers that provide the necessary support required to keep the skin strong. If the skin isn’t strong enough, rapid stretching can cause stretch marks to develop.
- "Using cocoa butter eliminates stretch marks."
One of the most popular myths about stretch marks is that people can prevent them by using cocoa butter. Although this is one of the most commonly repeated myths, stretch marks cannot be eliminated by a stretch mark cream. Collagen levels in the skin and the elasticity of the skin can both affect how prevalent stretch marks are. Cocoa butter cannot prevent stretch marks.
- "Skinny people don’t get stretch marks."
Skinny people can develop stretch marks, too. Many women who become pregnant and are considered slim develop stretch marks. Women and men who are trying to develop muscle can get stretch marks. A person whose diet is lacking in the proper nutrients is also at risk for stretch marks. Any person of any size can get stretch marks.
- "Stretch marks will disappear if you lose weight."
Stretch marks don’t disappear with weight loss alone. Many people who have lost a significant amount of weight are often surprised to learn that their stretch mark problem still exists. Stretch marks can gradually fade after a person sheds their weight, becoming lighter and less visible over time.
- "Stretch marks are permanent."
Stretch marks are not permanent. Some people can see them gradually fade over time. Stretch marks can also fade with laser surgery. There are actually different types of lasers that can be used to fade the appearance of stretch marks depending on their type. Laser therapy is used to stimulate the growth of collagen to repair the skin and replace older skin.
Many people will experience stretch marks at some point in their life. While there are risk factors like weight gain, hormonal balance and hereditary factors like elasticity also play a role in how well the skin responds to stress and stretching. While some people can see stretch marks fade gradually on their own, other people can have laser therapy to see a change in their skin health.
