The Many Actions Of Stretch Mark Creams

by Jen Hopkins

Stretch mark creams can have two different actions. One can prevent stretch marks from forming by increasing the elasticity of the skin, so that it will be ready to be stretched to its limit. The other action of these creams is by making stretch marks less visible to the naked eye. Most creams would usually combine both of these actions to become a more potent product against stretch marks.

Preventing stretch marks from forming can be very useful when you are expecting them to form. This is especially evident during pregnancy, when the body will be forced to grow larger to accommodate the growing baby. The rapid increase in size will force the skin to stretch, usually resulting in tears in its dermal later.

Using the preventive type of cream will help make your skin more elastic, so that it is more resistant to tearing. This way, it can stretch and stretch without tearing, thus no wounds will appear and no ensuing scars will form.

Most creams that do this make use of collagen and elastin to increase the skin's elasticity. It can either provide your skin with these proteins directly, or it can also stimulate the endogenous production of these proteins by your body. Both of these will work in making skin more elastic and more resistant to tearing.

As for stretch marks that are already present on the skin, creams can make them less visible by making their color lighter and more similar to that of your skin. This makes them almost invisible and you would have to look real close before they can be seen.

Stretch mark creams contain plant extracts and oils which help in lightening the appearance of such scars. By applying this on your skin everyday, it will slowly become lighter until they cannot be seen unless closely inspected. You cannot expect creams to take out your scars completely as they will always be present underneath the surface of your skin.

Aside from these two main actions, stretch mark creams also have some other added properties. They usually have added vitamins and minerals to help nourish the skin and make it smoother and softer to touch. They may also have moisturizing effects to ensure that the skin is hydrated at all times.

It is best to try and prevent stretch marks from forming by applying creams even before you see these marks. Upon learning that you are pregnant, you can already start applying the cream on your belly, hips and thighs. But it you already have existing stretch marks, you can still use this cream to make them less visible, or you may resort to undergoing treatment procedures that will totally eliminate them from your skin.

Jen Hopkins has worked in the anti wrinkle skin care industry for years. She maintains websites about Stretch Marks Removal Cream, and Best Stretch Marks Cream. If you want to contact her, you can use the contact form at one of her sites.