Debunking the Most Common Myths About Stretch Marks

Thanks to the modern wonder of Google, there is a plethora of information out there all about stretch marks. With varying opinions, research, and more, it may be a daunting task deciphering the truth from fiction. More than 80% of the population experiences stretch marks at some point in their life, leaving them searching endlessly for answers such as, "what are stretch marks?" or "Where do stretch marks come from?" and of course, "How can stretch marks be treated or cured?" 

With the variety of sources - some accurate, others far from it - it can be tough sometimes to know which way to believe. Do you know the facts about stretch marks versus the myths? Our team at TriLASTIN believes in presenting the full truth on stretch marks so we can empower you with a thorough understanding of your skin's situation.

To make sure the real facts are heard, we are busting some of the most significant stretch mark myths.

Thinner people don't get stretch marks.

For most people, there is a common association of stretch marks with rapid weight gain, which is a genuine cause. However, this leads to the misconception that leaner people don't get stretch marks, which is entirely false! People of all weight ranges deal with stretch marks for a mix of reasons. Physical transitions like puberty, growth spurts and even significant weight loss can all induce stretch marks, affecting people of all sizes.

Only women can get stretch marks. 

One of the biggest myths is only women endure stretch marks. We hate to break it to everyone, but men are just as susceptible to stretch marks as women are. Stretch marks don't discriminate based on gender. It comes down to the fact that if there is skin, there is a possibility of stretch marks. Stretch marks commonly appear for men who have experienced significant weight gain or loss and even those involved in bodybuilding. 

There are a plethora of physical causes that can lead to stretch marks for men and women alike. Stretch marks can and do affect people of any gender, ethnicity, age, and size.

Stretch marks are all one color.

Not all stretch marks appear the same. They can change colors and shapes depending on a few different components, such as how old the stretch marks are, initial severity, and even location on the body. Everybody is diverse, which means skin reacts differently.

If the marks are less than a year old, they usually dub a red or purple tone due to the blood vessels under the skin. Once the stretch marks set in, they can turn into a more purple hue, and from there without any sort of proper treatment, the stretch marks will continue to age and eventually turn white or silver.

Stretch marks are only caused by skin stretching.

The name "stretch mark" implies the stretching of our skin is the only cause of these dreaded tiger stripes, but there are other factors that can play into it. Although stretch marks from sudden weight gain come out on top as the most common form of stretch marks, there are deeper causes people may not know about. For example, during pregnancy, the fluctuation of hormones can have a major impact on the skin, stimulating an increased chance of stretch marks.

The causes of stretch marks are vast. It's not just hormones or weight changes. Genetic makeup can also play into the cause of stretch marks. If there is an existing gene within your family, stretch marks may develop easier in spite of your weight or hormones. Say your mother easily developed stretch marks during pregnancy. This leaves you more likely to experience them similarly.

Stretch marks can't be treated.

Stretch marks, unfortunately, don't have one magic cure. Although targeted, proper treatments vary in potency and effectiveness, certain ones can minimize the appearance of stretch marks, as well as preventative care to avoid future marks. The idea of incurable skin markings can be discouraging but just because stretch marks have developed doesn't mean they'll be visible forever. 

There are healing treatments that will help minimize and blur stretch marks by targeting and boosting collagen and elasticity in the skin. There are a few high-end options, including laser treatments and tummy tucks. However, stretch mark creams are a more affordable, convenient, and effective option providing your skin with consistent, healing nutrients.

Ready to start treating your stretch marks?

Lifestyle & diet doesn't affect stretch marks.

Just like there isn't one magic cure for stretch marks, there isn't a perfect, stretch-mark-free lifestyle or diet either. However, lifestyle and nutrition can play into the probability of stretch marks appearing. You can minimize existing stretch marks, as well as, set yourself up for protection against further stretching or damaging through proper choices. Your eating habits should include collagen-boosting, skin-friendly foods, which are a beneficial way to keep your skin healthy.

Some go-to food and life tips to help avoid and treat stretch marks include:

• Boosting up your Vitamin C intake to support firm skin and elasticity (also a potent wrinkle-reducing vitamin!)
• Some skin-nourishing essentials are Vitamin D, E, zinc, and protein.
• Up your hydration and minimize highly caffeinated beverages!

Stretch marks disappear with weight loss

Since weight gain can cause the development of stretch marks, many people expect that losing weight will eliminate them. However, that is a stretch mark myth that many people succumb to. Even though with weight loss, you can reduce any excess tension pulling on the skin, stretch mark scars form much more rooted in the skin layers. The loss of weight cannot undo the damage sustained by the dermis layer of the skin.

Here are some tricks on avoiding stretch marks while actively losing weight!

Tanning helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

This stretch mark myth is one that leads people to believe spending time in tanning beds will reduce the appearance of their stretch marks. Tanning will not fade your tiger stripes. Tanning can be severely harmful to your skin in other ways. In fact, excessive, unsafe tanning can dramatize the appearance of stretch marks due to the increase of contrasting tones between the tan skin and the lighter stretch marks.

TriLASTIN's Top-Rated Stretch Mark Cream is Here to Help!

Don't let the oversaturated market of misleading myths and magic lead you astray. TriLASTIN is here to help ease the appearance of your stretch marks by providing valuable resources, as well as effective preventative and healing treatment options.