If you’re reading this then you’re no doubt aware that stretch marks can be incredibly impactful on your self-esteem, and despite expansive marketing by many companies, most products do little to minimize the effect. Fortunately, we’re here to dispel all those myths surrounding stretch marks and give you solutions with proven results.
What Are Stretch Marks?
When your skin stretches or shrinks at quite a rate, it ends up scarring in narrow streaks – stretch marks. This can happen because of pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, or even because of growth during the teenage years.
What Are Some Common Stretch Mark Myths?
The myths surrounding stretch marks are as extensive as they are false! And the best way to start treating anything is to have a full and clear understanding of what it is that you’re dealing with. Here’s a quick look at the most common stretch mark myths, and why they’re not true.
Myth #1: Stretch marks are for old people
Stretch marks are indeed more common in older people as skin loses its elasticity, but this isn’t to say that younger people don’t get stretch marks. They can actually develop at any age, with pregnant women and adolescents prone to stretch marks as the body rapidly changes shape.
Myth #2: Stretch marks are only found on women
Wrong again! Yes, women are more prone to stretch marks because of pregnancy and rapid hormonal changes, but this doesn’t mean that stretch marks are reserved only for females. Men are also prone to rapid weight gain and loss at all ages of life, with certain medical conditions also responsible for stretch marks.
Myth #3: Stretch marks are only found on overweight or obese people
As mentioned, weight gain can lead to stretch marks, but this doesn’t mean that stretch marks are reserved only for those with weight issues. Because stretch marks can be caused by puberty, rapid muscle gain, and even certain medical conditions, people of all body shapes and sizes can experience stretch marks.
Myth #4: Stretch marks can disappear on their own
It’s true that, over time, your stretch marks might become less noticeable, they don’t generally just go away on their own. It’s also important to note that stretch marks are more visible on certain skin types and tones than on others, but the likelihood of them just disappearing is not high.
Myth #5: Stretch marks can be eliminated/prevented with products
Despite many oil and cream manufacturers making grand claims, there is no definitive proof that they’re able to eradicate or prevent stretch marks. It’s true that well-moisturized skin has improved elasticity which could reduce the potential for stretch marks, but that’s about as far as it goes.
Myth #6: Stretch marks will disappear with weight loss
If your stretch marks were caused by sudden weight gain, then weight loss could diminish the appearance of the stretch marks – although it won’t completely eliminate them.
Myth #7: Stretch marks are reduced with suntanning
The nature of stretch marks is that the skin is scarred, which means that it cannot tan in the sun. When your skin is exposed to UV rays, the surrounding tanned skin can actually contrast further against the stretch marks, making them more prominent.
Myth #8: Stretch marks are limited to the stomach
Although stretch marks are found on the stomach area, they are in no way restricted to this area. They can be found anywhere on your body where the skin can be stretched through weight gain and weight loss. This includes your breasts, hips, thighs, and more.
Myth #9: Stretch marks are found on all pregnant women
Pregnancy increases the likelihood of stretch marks but some women are lucky enough to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy – with genetics playing a part. Women who are younger, obese, or have bigger babies are more prone to stretch marks.
Myth #10: Stretch marks are all one color
Stretch marks can come in a variety of colors, starting with red or purple tones when they first appear. Over time, your stretch marks will usually fade to a white tone with the shape and size changing depending on your body.
How To Treat Stretch Marks
Another one of the major myths is that stretch marks can’t be treated, and while there’s no magic cure, there are certain treatments that can drastically minimize the appearance of stretch marks.
Stretch Mark Camouflage Tattooing
Also known as Brazilian Stretch Mark Camouflage, is a form of medical tattooing that hides stretch marks and scars. To achieve this, a technician will match the tattoo ink to your skin tone and apply it to the stretch mark. In some cases, this form of medical tattooing will stimulate the body’s natural wound-healing response further diminishing the stretch mark.
Advanced Stretch Mark Treatment
This is a highly specialized, breakthrough procedure that actually removes stretch marks. A technician uses a unique combination of organic oils, vitamins, and peptides to boost the cellular turnover of collagen, elastin, and fibroblast cells in your skin. These will stimulate your fibroblast cells to produce more collagen and elastin to repair the skin. Advanced Stretch Mark Treatment is considered one of the most natural stretch mark removal treatments available today, with a 20% to 90% improvement evident in just one session.
Where To Get Stretch Mark Treatments
Both these innovative stretch mark treatments are performed in the Washington area by BeautyInk By LeAnne. If you’re feeling self-conscious about any stretch marks, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with BeautyInk By LeAnne today to find out more about Stretch Mark Camouflage Tattooing and Advanced Stretch Mark Treatment.
