Unfortunately our skin does not bounce back if it's been stretched by rapid growth due to pregnancy, weight gain, or even extreme weight loss. It may instead become decorated by a form scarring scientifically known as striae or more commonly stretch marks. Stretch marks often begin as a reddish or purplish color and then become glossier, appearingshowing streaked in silver or white. These stretch marks occur in the dermis layer of the skin which is in the middle allowing it to retain its shape. Yet when it is stretched beyond its ability the dermis can be broken down leaving stretch marks in the process.

Stretch marks are not gender specific and can affect both men and women.The abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms, or lower back are all areas prone to stretch marks.

Other influences on victims of stretch marks- One such influence on stretch marks is heredity influences. Skin Type also plays a role as some skin is dryer thus has less elasticity. Weight plays a role and either a rapid gain or loss, may cause stretch marks, especially during adolescence. Pregnancy is a major factor with between 75% and 90% of women developing stretch marks to some degree during pregnancy. The sustained hormonal levels during this time, mean pregnancy stretch marks usually appear during the sixth or seventh month.

How to Treat Stretch Marks

For the prevention and treatment of stretch marks there are several options. Factors such as age, skin tone and even diet will influence how successful treatments will be.

Firstly for prevention drink plenty of water. Through adequate hydration your skin remains soft and less likely to develop stretch marks. Caffeine could increase your risk of stretch marks. If you're a tea, coffee or soda drinker make sure you balance it out with more water. Stretch marks can also be a result from a nutritional deficiency. Make sure you consume foods that promote skin health: consume foods rich in zinc, such as nuts or fish; foods high in vitamins A and C, such as carrots and citrus fruits and milk; protein-rich foods, such as eggs.

Surgical methods are also available to treat stretch marks. Methods such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser surgery can be used to treat stretch marks.

Over-the-counter stretch mark treatments are sold. Ask your dermatologist to recommend one. And furthermore if you are pregnant, discuss your concerns with your doctor at the beginning of your pregnancy, before stretch marks develop, so that preventive treatment can be started.

Finally a doctor or dermatologist will direct you well to what treatment is best for you situation. There are many effective ways to prevent stretch marks and treat them.