Stretch marks occur when a person’s skin expands and stretches beyond its limit, at a rapid rate. They appear as dark or red lines on the skin and can turn into permanent scars, because small tears appear on the skin. These stretch marks are caused because the collagen in the skin gets disrupted from its normal production.


They can appear on any part of the body, where the skin is being stretched. Since most of the fat is usually stored in the abdomen, hips, thighs, upper arms and breasts, stretch marks are most likely to be seen in these places. Body building, rapid weight gain, natural growth spurts and pregnancy can bring on stretch marks.


Unfortunately, there is no definite and permanent stretch mark solution as yet. However, by treating them as early as possible, you have a higher chance of diminishing their appearance.

You can reduce the chances of getting stretch marks, by choosing your diet carefully. Drink a lot of water each day, as drinking at least 12 to 15 glasses will keep your skin well hydrated and elastic. If your skin is elastic, it will not tear while stretching, which can help in keeping the production of collagen at a normal level. One of the best ways to prevent and treat stretch marks is by following a healthy and nutritious diet, which is low in fat, but high in vitamins and minerals. An increased intake of Vitamins A, C and E, as well as zinc provides the required nutrition for the skin and keeps it healthy, which prevents and heals stretch marks. Therefore, a diet that consists of fresh fruits, vegetables (especially leafy greens), almonds and nuts, eggs, fish & fish liver oil and beans can be quite beneficial.

There are several companies that guarantee results in eliminating stretch marks, if you use their expensive creams. However, not all of them are effective. Simple home remedies can bring out better results than using them or not doing anything at all. You can apply cocoa butter, olive oil, castor oil, almond oil, avocado oil, vitamin E oil (after a shower) and Aloe Vera to the marks to lighten and diminish them. Rubbing shea butter 3 to 3 times a day can also be helpful, as it is very high in Vitamins A & E.

At present the most common solutions for eliminating the scars caused by stretch marks are laser surgery and blue light therapy.