Stretch Marks during Pregnancy
Stretch marks during pregnancy is common. Affecting a majority of expectant mothers, stretch marks appear as bright red or purple colored lines and cause intense itching at the time of formation.
They are caused by damage suffered by elastin and collagen in the deeper layers of the skin. When skin stretches rapidly, it causes the delicate elastin and collagen to break and lose elasticity.
Stretch marks typically appear around the belly because during pregnancy, it is this area of the skin that undergoes rapid changes as the baby grows. Stretch marks may also appear on the back, breasts and around the buttocks.
Regular massage with vitamin E oil can help keep the elastin and the collagen healthy, preventing stretch marks and itchiness.
Stretch mark remedies on the next page.
We asked Dr Andrew Tay, Consultant Plastic Surgeon of the Pacific Healthcare Specialist Centre, for what can be done to remove or at least lighten stretch marks and here are his 3 tips:
* Laser and RF treatment may help to stimulate the production of new collagen
* Topical retinoids
* Chemical peels
Read: 9 Natural ways to minimize stretch marks using things found in your kitchen
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