Stretch Marks

 The causes of stretch marks vary from individualto individual. Generally the resons for stretch marks are excessive weight gain or excessive weight loss and pregnancy. In short, when your skin stretches itself the stretch marks are emerged. 

Stretch marks vary in color and appearance. They can be classified under two types

• Red stretch marks (striae rubra) form because of the stretching of the dermal layer of the skin, permitting the blood vessels in the layer beneath to show through.
• White stretch marks, also known as striae alba appear on the places where the blood vessels have receded, showing fat below the dermal layer. This explains their silvery white appearance.

Avoiding stretch marks is a matter of staying hydrated and keeping your skin moisturized. Here are few tips to help you keep your skin stretch mark-free:

• Drink ample Amount of Pure and Clean Water. Staying hydrated actually has a lot of positive effects on your body. It helps in the prevention of stretch marks as it provides the skin sufficient  moisture to stop these marks from showing up when you put on weight or build muscles. 
• Apply Coconut Oil to Stretchmark-Prone Areas. Coconut oil can also function as a moisturizer to help your skin stay moisturized, exfoliate theouter layer and give your skin extra elasticity. This will prevent the breaking of the dermal layer and the development of stretch marks.
• Eat healthy. Nourishing your body with wholesome foods lets you maintain a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals. You can also avoid the fluctuations in your weight that can cause stretch marks by eating a balanced diet . It helps you maintain a constant weight and prevents you from gaining fat, which usually causes stretch marks to form on your abdomen and thighs. 
• Avoid Alcohol. As much as possible, avoid excessive intake of alcohol. Alcohol is known to suck out the moisture from your body, which will make your skin more drier than normal. This dryness will then increase the risk of stretch mark formation.  
• Stock Up on Vitamin E. Vitamin E is famous for its role in maintaining skin health and preserving the collagen found in the skin, which helps the skin to maintain its elasticity. 
• Exercise Regularly. Regular exercising will keep your skin taut and your weight in check, avoiding sudden weight gain or loss. 
   

 There are many home remedies for stretch marks. Though there is no scientific evidence that these will reduce  your stretch marks-:

• Natural Essential Oils     -Include lavender, sandalwood, frankincense and tangerine oils. 
• Rub Aloe Vera on areas that are susceptible to Stretch Marks.
• Well-known for its anti-inflammatory effects- Lemon Juice. Famous for its bleaching and whitening properties, but it can also boost the amount of collagen the skin produces because of its high amounts of vitamin C.
• Egg Whites- Contain protein and certain amino acids that can help your skin heal, lightening the appearance of stretch marks.

 Derma roller instigates the remodelling processes in the skin to start to replace the areas of stretch marks with stronger firmer skin.

It is normal for the area to have superficial scabbing, and the skin can feel dry and begin to peel. You must not pull, pick, or scratch at the skin. With subsequent sessions, skin looks firmer.

Stretch marks  can typically be improved with the appropriate selection of laser treatments. Fractional erbium fiber (ResurFX, Lumenis) laser is used for superficial to medium depth scars. ResurFX laser employs the “only one pass” formula. ResurFX is effective, saves your time and secure your skin. ResurFX uses a 1565 nm fiber laser and a very advanced scanner – say goodbye to your scars! This treatment is one of the most reliable scar removal technique which has minimum risk and pain. It is a non-invasive treatment which requires no downtime as the process involves delivering quick energy with the help of fractional laser technology. – get your treatment done and be ready for work the same day! The microbeams penetrate deep causing regrowth of cells and collagen remodelling. Resurfx offers a number of advantages when compared with similar treatments- faster, less painful and flexible.

Dr. Nivedita  recommends concoction of lotions that contain collagen ,  elastin , rosehip oil and vitamin E   to be applied on stretch marks in between your sessions  to enhance results.