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Article: Information on Stretch Marks

More than half of all expectant women will acquire stretch marks. These usually develop from the third trimester of pregnancy, sometimes earlier, as skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby. Stretch marks frequently occur on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, breasts and arms. The marks usually begin as pink, reddish brown, brown or dark brown streaks on the skin. The pigmentation in the marks gradually fade, leaving gray or silver scar lines. The lines may be slightly depressed and consist of a different texture when compared to normal skin. Not all individuals develop stretch marks in this manner though, with some reports of stretch marks that get progressively darker with time.

There are three layers in your skin. Stretch marks occur in the middle layer, the dermis. This layer constitutes the skin's elasticity and is fortified with fibers known as collagen and elastins, that enable the skin to stretch and yield. However, when there is continuous stretch and wear, its flexibility and elasticity gets worn down. The skin tries to remedy this by increasing the amount of collagen in the overstretched tissue, resulting in the familiar stretch mark scars.

Are stretch marks preventable or curable? This is an unresolved issue and many theorists exist. Unless a new technological breakthrough emerges, it appears that the debate over this matter will continue. A common consensus appears to be that using a good moisturizer to massage the stretched areas will nourish the skin and increase the chances of reducing the severity of stretch marks, if not preventing them altogether. It would also seem that applying the appropriate body product will result in reducing the visual effects of existing stretch marks and enable the scars to lighten and blend to your normal skin tone.

More health professionals these days accept that natural remedies can do wonders for treating and healing many conditions. At Little Dreamers, we have looked through the wealth of natural products that are offered and have come away impressed by the results that these 3 products give: Belly Butter, Tummy Rub Stretch mark Oil and Body and Belly Butter. Tried and tested by ourselves and our friends, we now share these with you.

Our products can be used throughout pregnancy and we would certainly suggest using them early, towards the end of the first trimester, when skin starts stretching. Simply massage a small amount of oil or butter over areas where skin feels particularly taut, bearing in mind places where stretch marks typically occur. This is especially important if there is rapid weight gain in your pregnancy!

After the birth of your baby, do continue using the oil or butter until your weight and figure are near your normal pre-pregnancy weight. Keep in mind that stretch marks can also occur when there is weight loss. If you have discovered Little Dreamers' products only after you have developed stretch marks, massage the oil or butter onto the affected areas daily. Treatment does appear quicker if the age of the stretch mark is young.

Please remember that skin types differ from individual to individual. Some scientists have also argued that stretch marks have a genetic basis. Because of all these differences, stretch marks will not begin, age or heal in the same way for everyone.

contributed by Little Dreamers