Did you know that Cover Dot made with hydrocolloid, which is a drug-free alternative for breast-feeding mothers and mamas-to-be. But what can you do to lessen the appearance of stretch marks?
Stretch marks are scars that form when the skin shrinks or stretches quickly. The quick and abrupt change causes elastin and collagen (skin supporters) to rupture. When the skin heals, the stretch marks form. It can also be exacerbated by fluctuating hormones and genetics. In addition to pregnancy, stretch marks can appear with rapid weight loss or gain, rapid muscle growth, and growth spurts that typically occur during pregnancy.
When stretch marks first appear, they tend to be red, purple, pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown, depending on your skin color. Early stretch marks may feel slightly raised and can be itchy.
In time, the color fades and the narrow bands sink beneath your skin. If you run your finger over a mature stretch mark, you often feel a slight depression.
There is no single treatment for stretch marks but there are a variety of products that claim to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Those who are pregnant should consult their doctors before using products, such as retinol, that can harm your baby.
Researchers have found various ways to improve the efficacy of lessening the appearance of stretch marks with lotions or creams:
1. Using product early on will be more effective than using stretch mark reducing products when the marks have been present for awhile.
2. Gently massage product onto the stretch marks.
3. Apply the product consistently and be patient as results can take weeks and months to see.
There are some home remedies, such as almond oil, cocoa butter, vitamin E and olive oil that can be used as alternatives to products in stores.