Small streaks have appeared on certain areas of your body and you would like to know how to recognize stretch marks ? and what do stretch marks look like ?
We take this opportunity to present our treatments for stretch marks and firming the skin after pregnancy.
Stretch marks are skin lesions that appear in some women, usually during puberty or pregnancy. Indeed, stretch marks are mainly linked to hormonal upheaval. Men are also affected by stretch marks during rapid weight loss/gain, during adolescence, if they practice intense sport or if they are under corticosteroid treatment.
Guide to Identifying Stretch Marks
We reveal the essential characteristics to better recognize stretch marks . Also discover our range to prevent and repair stretch marks with proven effectiveness.
To recognize stretch marks , nothing could be simpler:
Observation of initial signs
Stretch marks often begin with an inflammatory phase. Here's how to identify them:
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Color : The color of stretch marks reveals the evolution of the stretch mark. The first stretch marks generally appear as reddish, purplish or brown lines , depending on the skin tone. The colors are the result of inflammation following the rupture of the dermis : they are at the immature stage .
- Shape : Stretch marks, whether in a woman or a man, have the same shape. They are recognized by their linear shape.
- Texture : Stretch marks are often more raised than the surrounding skin. They may feel softer or drier to the touch.
Evolution of stretch marks
Over time, stretch marks change in appearance:
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Decrease in color : The red or purple lines often become lighter, taking on a silvery or white tint. This stage is called "mature", the stretch mark has completed its healing process.
- Flatness : Over time, stretch marks may flatten, making their appearance less noticeable, although they are still present.
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Size : Stretch marks come in various sizes. They can reach several centimeters in length. They become thinner when they turn white.
- Number : There is no rule but stretch marks usually appear in groups taking a parallel arrangement to each other.
- Their duration : if no treatment is carried out (cosmetic or laser for example), stretch marks fade but never disappear. In fact, they will go from the inflammatory stage (red/purple) to the healing stage (white/pearly). Once white, the stretch mark generally remains marked for life.
Location of stretch marks
Stretch marks are visible to the naked eye on the surface of the skin. In pregnant women, stretch marks usually appear on the stomach, hips and chest. They can also be located on the lower back, thighs and buttocks in women and men.
Stretch marks typically form in areas of the body where the skin is more prone to stretching. The most common locations include:
- Abdomen : Particularly common during pregnancy.
- Thighs : Often related to weight changes or growth.
- Breast : Common in adolescents and pregnant women.
- Hips : Especially in people gaining weight.
Risk factors
Identify risk factors that could make you more susceptible to stretch marks:
- Hormonal changes : Hormonal fluctuations, such as those related to pregnancy or puberty, can weaken the structure of the skin.
- Genetic factors : Some people are more likely to develop stretch marks because of their genetic makeup.
- Rapid weight gain or loss : Weight changes, whether positive or negative, are common triggers.
- Certain conditions : Conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can also increase the risk of stretch marks.
Considered unsightly and unaesthetic, it is therefore essential to use anti-stretch mark creams and oils if you want to effectively prevent stretch marks in order to avoid scars on your body.
How to prevent the appearance of stretch marks?
- Skin hydration : Stretch mark prevention involves the daily application of a dedicated anti-stretch mark treatment with proven effectiveness. Using a moisturizer, shea butter or virgin oil will not be enough. Indeed, they provide comfort and hydration but will not have any effect on the consequences of hormonal variations on the disorganization of the skin structure. Use anti-stretch mark creams to preserve beautiful skin quality combined with a dedicated oil to keep the skin supple.
OUR anti stretch mark cream acts at the heart of the dermis to protect against the effects of hormonal variations on skin quality. It contains a patented extract of Cassia Alata, used by Malagasy pregnant women in an ancestral way. In addition, our 1st Stretch Mark Treatment Cream boosts collagen production and protects elastin fibers to improve your skin quality. This anti-stretch mark treatment should be applied from the beginning of pregnancy until several weeks after giving birth.
In addition, our anti-stretch mark oil improves the skin's elasticity and suppleness so that it can better withstand skin stretching. Its six vegetable oils and brown algae extract intensely nourish the skin.
The combination of these two products promises effectiveness in preventing stretch marks.
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Maintaining a stable weight : Avoid rapid weight fluctuations by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
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Track Body Changes : Monitor your body during significant changes, including during pregnancy, to take preventative care.
- Massage: Massage can be beneficial during pregnancy or during rapid weight changes because it helps keep the skin supple. Massage can also relax the surrounding muscles and tissues, which can help reduce tension in the skin and promote better skin health.
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How to reduce the appearance of red stretch marks?
Once you have managed to recognize your stretch marks , you must now take action while they are still in the immature stage. That is to say when they are still colored (purplish red) and/or they have just appeared.
- Treatment with creams: Our SOS Stretch Mark Balm is your ally to repair your skin and reduce the appearance of your stretch marks. This repair treatment is enriched with patented extracts of Cassia Alata and Centella Asiatica. This synergy of patented plant extracts combined with other active ingredients contributes to the healing of stretch marks and cell renewal. Applied morning and evening for 2 months, stretch marks can be reduced by up to -80%.
Against stretch marks, you can complete this treatment with the Fresh Firming Milk. Indeed, this treatment also contains a synergy of plants including rosehip oil whose benefits are recognized for reducing stretch marks. In addition, this treatment is ideal for firming postpartum skin. To do this, apply the SOS Stretch Mark Balm by massaging until completely absorbed, then the Fresh Firming Milk on all areas affected by the appearance of stretch marks and sagging skin.
All of our treatments do not contain alcohol or essential oils and are compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For white stretch marks, unfortunately, no dermo-cosmetic treatment will have an effect on this type of stretch mark. The only solution is laser. For this, contact a competent professional such as dermatologists.
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Exfoliate: Exfoliating can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but it won't completely eliminate them.
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Regular exfoliation can promote cell turnover and make skin smoother. Additionally, the massage you do while exfoliating can stimulate blood circulation in the area, which can contribute to better skin health.
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Massage : Massage can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and help them heal.
Massage promotes circulation to the area where stretch marks are located, which can help bring more nutrients and oxygen to the skin tissues, promoting regeneration. By massaging the skin regularly, you can help maintain its elasticity, which can reduce the depth and visibility of stretch marks.
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Knowing how to recognize stretch marks is essential to better understanding your skin and taking appropriate preventative measures. While they are common and generally harmless, it is normal to want to reduce their appearance. By monitoring changes in your body and practicing proper care, you can minimize the appearance of these marks. If you are particularly concerned about your stretch marks, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist to discuss the best treatment options for you.
