February 19th, 2010 | 
Author: Stretch marks are called stria atrophicae in the field of dermatology. They are often characterized as scarring on the skin due to weight gain. They appear on body parts where higher amounts of fats are accumulated. Such body parts are the thighs, hips, buttocks, and the abdomen.
Stretch marks are created when the middle layer of the skin, i.e. dermis, stretches to its maximum elasticity to fit a new and larger body. They first appear as reddish purple lines due to microscopic bleeding and along with tissue inflammation, they are now considered as newly formed stretch marks. With this the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin, also stretches making it visible enough for the reddish purple lines to be seen. And when these heal, the scar itself forms with a lighter shade than that of the natural skin tone.
Some studies suggest that glucocorticoids, a group of steroids, are associated with stretch marks. Cortisol is the most common example of a glucocorticoid. Research showed that when the body is at stress, it releases cortisol at a level above its normal amount. This could halt fibrolasts from forming elastin fibers and collagen, which are essential for keeping a new skin firm. This would ultimately lead to the tearing of the epidermal and dermal layer due to lack of these supporting materials.
Numerous studies have been made regarding procedures on how to prevent or remove stretch marks. The use of retinoid creams or alpha-hydroxy acid, mixed with tropical steroids, were proven to prevent stretch marks.
Studies have been made to provide solutions regarding the prevention and removal of stretch marks. One of those suggests the use of retinoid creams or alpha-hydroxy acids, combined with tropical steroids. Steroids have been known to reduce inflammation, which is also the cause of stretch marks as mentioned earlier. Retinoids and alpha-hydroxy acids on the other hand, are used to cancel the bad effects of steroids. The resulting combination of these substances could therefore prevent stretch mark formation.
There are other methods available to help remove and prevent stretch marks. Such methods are laser treatments, use of prescription retinoids, and dermabrasion. Dermabrasion uses pulses of light to remove the outer most surface of the epidermis. This is done to remove not only stretch marks, but also dark and sun-damaged skin.
Another method uses a surgical procedure, the tummy tuck. In here, the part of skin below the navel is being removed because this is where stretch marks oftenly form.
Learn more about prevent pregnancy stretch marks. Visit Jen Hopkins’s site, www.SecretsToGetRidOfStretchmarks.com, where you can find out all about stretch marks removal and other valuable information about the topic.
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