When skin is stretched beyond its normal limits in a short period of time, the collagen and elastin fibers that keep skin supple are unable to reproduce quickly enough to maintain the integrity of the outer layer of skin.
This breakdown in elasticity, most often associated with pregnancy and rapid weight gain or loss, can cause scarring of the skin tissue known as stretch marks or striae.
If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or beginning a regimen to lose a significant amount of weight, it is a good idea to take steps to help prevent the onset of stretch marks.
While nothing can guarantee the complete prevention of stretch marks, there are things you can do to increase the health of your skin and lower your risk for permanent scarring.
Eat for healthy skin.
Your skin is the largest organ on your body, so it is important to take good care of it from the inside out.
Whether you are looking to prevent signs of aging, stretch marks, or just an overall dull appearance, eating healthy can play a large role in preventing damage to your skin.
Diets rich in vitamins A, C, and E as well as zinc and proteins have been shown to promote healthy skin and prevent signs of external damage like stretch marks.
Hydrate.
In order to keep your skin healthy, smooth, and capable of fending off damage, you must keep it properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Caffeine and alcohol have a drying effect on the skin, so limit your consumption to maintain a healthy complexion.
Exercise regularly.
We all know that exercise has many health benefits, but it is also essential to maintaining healthy skin.
Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body and helps rid the body of toxins that can damage our skin and other organs.
The increased blood flow encourages skin renewal and rejuvenation, promoting healthy skin and preventing signs of damage.
Pregnant women should consult their physician before beginning any strenuous exercise regimen.
Moisturize.
To maintain healthy skin, it is essential to keep your body properly hydrated and moisturized.
Aside from drinking plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated from the inside, regularly applying a topical moisturizing cream or lotion can also prove beneficial in keeping your skin healthy and preventing stretch marks, wrinkles, and other skin damage.
A number of moisturizing creams available over the counter or online have performed quite well in clinical trials for stretch mark prevention.
The best performers tend to contain natural ingredients that defend the skin from free radicals and other environmental stressors while simultaneously promoting skin regeneration and collagen production.
Look for Vitamins E and D3, which act as antioxidants and stimulate the growth of new cells, minimizing the appearance of stretch marks.
Aloe Vera is also an ingredient to look for its soothing and healing properties.
For best results in stretch mark prevention, make a nutritious diet and consistent topical skincare part of your everyday routine.
While it won't prevent all stretch marks or signs of aging, it will help keep your skin looking healthy and smooth.
Revitol Stretch Mark Prevention Cream is a revolutionary product discovered to prevent the formation and minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
Click here to begin erasing unsightly stretch marks associated with pregnancy or rapid weight changes.