Stretch marks are skin marks that can be quite bothersome and may appear in any area of the body. Those who suffer from stretch marks know how much this issue can affect their well-being and self-esteem, regardless of age. Below are some myths and truths about stretch marks, so you can clarify any doubts you may have about this common problem.
1. Stretch marks can appear when the skin stretches rapidly
True. We know that when the skin undergoes rapid stretching, it can cause the rupture of collagen and elastin fibers, leading to the appearance of stretch marks. Situations such as weight gain, pregnancy, puberty growth spurts, and others cause the skin to stretch quickly and are common examples of when stretch marks appear. Therefore, this is one of the truths about stretch marks that you need to know.
2. Hydrating the area prevents stretch marks
True. You’ve probably heard that moisturizing the skin helps prevent the appearance of stretch marks, which is indeed one of the truths about stretch marks.
After all, dry skin is more prone to abrupt stretching in cases of rapid weight gain and other circumstances that favor the appearance of stretch marks.
This happens because hydration helps preserve the skin’s fibers. Furthermore, moisturizing makes the stretching of the skin’s superficial layers much less aggressive, reducing the chances of stretch marks appearing over time.
That’s why using moisturizing products enriched with oils or urea helps prevent and reduce these scars. It’s also worth mentioning that drinking an adequate amount of water according to one’s body weight is ideal, as it hydrates the skin and the body from the inside out.
3. Stretch marks can be caused by medication
True. Some medications, such as those based on corticosteroids, can cause stretch marks to appear. Therefore, patients should always be monitored by a doctor when using such medications.
4. There is a way to reduce the risk of getting stretch marks
True. Each person has a greater or lesser tendency to develop stretch marks. There are several factors that increase the risk of their appearance, some of which we’ve mentioned earlier. Therefore, we can guide and monitor people to reduce the risk of stretch marks. One example of an action to take is the use of moisturizers and weight control.
5. There is more than one type of stretch mark
True. In general, people often say there are various types of stretch marks. However, what actually exists are stages, and they begin with inflammation caused by the rupture of the skin.
In the initial stage, when the skin tears due to stretching, it is common to observe stretch marks with a reddish color. Without proper treatment, after some time, the area enters a healing process, and it is common to see white stretch marks, which correspond to a more advanced stage of the problem.
Therefore, saying that there are different types of stretch marks is partly true, but it’s important to clarify that these are not different types, but rather stages in which stretch marks appear on the body.
6. Stretch marks only affect women
Myth. Although they are much more common in women, men can also develop stretch marks. The female hormone plays a significant role in why women tend to suffer from this problem more frequently.
7. Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body?
True. It is much more common for stretch marks to appear in certain areas of the body, such as the thighs, hips, legs, buttocks, abdomen, and even the arms. However, the truth is that stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body.
The reason they commonly appear in the mentioned regions is due to higher fat storage in these areas. However, even the face can develop these bothersome stripes, as they appear from the stretching of the skin.
8. Stretch mark treatments don’t work well
Myth. While treating stretch marks is not an easy task, there are some treatments that are very effective. Treatments range from peels to laser therapy. The standout option is the CO2 fractional laser, which offers a unique result due to its deep action in collagen production, with technology designed to protect the skin.
9. The treatment for red stretch marks has better results
True. The earlier a treatment is started, the better the results. The treatment for red stretch marks in Rio de Janeiro, for example, is very effective, often making them nearly imperceptible. Therefore, this is one of the truths about stretch marks you should consider.
10. Is it possible to get rid of stretch marks?
Myth and Truth. It depends on factors such as the type of stretch mark, how long it has been present, and the type of treatment used.
If the treatment uses advanced technology, like CO2 laser, the results can be much better. If the stretch marks are recent and red in color, the treatment could make them nearly imperceptible.
Older, white stretch marks may not disappear completely but can be softened in texture and appearance.
11. Is it good to sunbathe on stretch marks?
Myth. In fact, sun exposure has a negative effect on stretch marks. Sunlight dries out the skin, which can worsen the problem.
Another important point is that the tan on the rest of the skin will not occur in the stretch marks, making them even more visible.
12. Are white stretch marks older than red ones?
Truth. This is one of the most common myths and truths about stretch marks. Yes, white or off-white stretch marks are older than the red or pink ones.
The difference in color indicates that they have been on the skin for different periods. Red stretch marks are recent and have more blood flow as the body tries to heal the collagen damage.
White stretch marks are older, less inflamed, and likely already healed.
13. Not all pregnant women will get stretch marks
Truth. The appearance of stretch marks depends on various factors, including the rapid stretching of the skin, which is common during pregnancy.
While pregnancy increases the chances of getting stretch marks, not all women will experience them.
It is essential for pregnant women to hydrate their skin well and maintain a healthy diet to minimize the chances of stretch marks.
For more tips and information on stretch marks and treatments.
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