All about stretch marks

Leaving A Mark?
Stretch marks happen when the skin is stretched beyond its elastic limit (when you're pregnant), causing a break in elastin (a skin fibre). Elastin doesn't share collagen's regenerative ability - it leaves a mark on breaking.

Treatment options tend to be only moderately effective. There are reports of Vitamin E-creams helping in preventing the occurrence of stretch marks, especially during pregnancy.

An effective household remedy practised in many parts of the country is the application of sandalwood paste and coconut oil along with a paste called kasturi turmeric (haldi).

Both microdermabrasion and glycolic acid peels are not completely effective in tackling pigmented stretch marks. Lasers and plastic surgery can also help.

An infrared skin tightening device called TITAN is also reported to show reasonably positive results. Early intervention is the best - seek help after the first signs emerge.

Kinds of stretch marks Stretch marks...
They are of three types, based on their colour: Red, when they are just formed, light grey or white as they heal, and dark brown on dark coloured skin. Men who work out a lot tend to get the red ones, while women who gain weight tend to get the light/dark pigmentation.