Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Dealing With Stretch Marks During And After Pregnancy

By Sherry Johnston

Lots of new mothers get stretch marks during and after pregnancy. These stretch marks can occur with anyone and at any time and they are the result of skin that has been stretched to its limits and beyond. This results in a breakdown of the underlying collagen formation and as it tries to knit itself back together, the stretch marks are the scarred results.

These stretch marks are deep in the skin's layers, and even then you can sometimes run your fingers over the area and still feel a bit of ridging.

Just because you are a new mother does not mean you are doomed to covering up and not showing any skin in public. Feeling ashamed or self conscious about these stretch marks is not good for your self-image or for your self esteem. There is no need to hide.

Some of the most regular places to see stretch marks appear is on the buttocks and hips, the breasts and the abdomen. That can make it even more despairing to many women. Stretch marks are a reality and they are do happen, but you shouldn't let them ruin your life. There are things you can do help preventing and repairing this condition.

Keep your skin hydrated by drinking lots of water. Lots of water in your body helps keep your largest organ the skin, elastic. This will help in preventing this problem from occurring.

Vitamins A, E, and C are good for you. Eat foods with lots of these vitamins. These vitamins help in your skin's regeneration and rejuvenation. If you eat a balanced diet, you should be fine. If you take a multi vitamin, you should also be good.

Exercise is really important. Make the time to get your share. Exercises not only keep your body fit but it also aids in increased collagen formation and strengthening your body and underlying tissue and muscle structure which may also assist you in being able to avoid this problem.

For those of you with stretch marks, the best solution to try and remove them is to use some of the many stretch mark creams that are available by prescription or over the counter. They range in price from cheap to very expensive. They work effectively though, for many people.

You should read as much as you can about the different products out for stretch marks. Learn about your options and read reviews on different creams. Consult with your doctor before taking any kind of skin care regimen.

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