Red stretch marks
The period of pregnancy is the most beautiful stage in a woman's life, but it is often overshadowed by the appearance of unsightly stretch marks, which result from the breaking of the skin's elastic and collagen fibers. These stretch marks resemble parallel stripes; initially, red stretch marks appear, which are shiny and somewhat wider. If not adequately addressed, they become white and are more challenging to eliminate, presenting a scarred, slightly indented appearance with a different texture than normal skin.
However, there are extraordinary home remedies for stretch marks that prevent the transition from red stretch marks to white or help to conceal the white ones if you already have them. In short, don't worry about stretch marks; enjoy your pregnancy and keep reading to get all the information you need for your peace of mind.
Many women wonder if red stretch marks disappear after pregnancy. The answer is NO, unless you act quickly by applying a good anti-stretch mark cream or another remedy, red stretch marks will not disappear after pregnancy. But keep reading to discover much more...
Red Stretch Marks, Why Do They Occur?
When women become pregnant, their bodies begin a process of adapting to the new condition, with a significant increase in estrogen affecting the skin, which consists of the epidermis (the outer part that provides protection) and the dermis (the inner part where the breaking of elastic fibers occurs). At the same time, the skin begins to stretch, losing a lot of water. It is at this moment that the skin starts to dry out, leading to the appearance of stretch marks.
Studies indicate that stretch marks appear between the fifth and sixth weeks of pregnancy and that between 50% and 70% of first-time pregnant women develop them due to the skin's dryness from water loss and, of course, hormonal changes. Additionally, in 12% of these pregnancies, these stretch marks become problematic.
The Best Creams to Prevent Stretch Marks
According to the above, obstetrician-gynecologist Víctor Marín indicates that for every 8% of skin stretching, a high percentage of hydration is lost, causing the skin to itch and the need to scratch constantly. However, it's not because of scratching that stretch marks appear; it’s due to the skin being extremely dry.
Red Stretch Marks and Genetics
Stretch marks that appear at the beginning of pregnancy are very easy to treat with both home remedies and medical treatments. It is advisable to treat red stretch marks as soon as they appear. They appear in anatomical areas where there is the greatest increase in body mass, such as the abdominal wall, hips, thighs, arms, buttocks, and breasts. However, since genetics also play a role, it is good to know if any of our family members have or had stretch marks to prevent them.
According to research conducted on pregnant women, it has been concluded that the appearance of stretch marks does not depend on the volume that the abdomen can reach, but rather on the genetic predisposition to the development of stretch marks. Genetics provide or do not provide good skin quality in terms of elasticity, preventing the appearance of stretch marks. Therefore, if there have been no stretch marks in your family's pregnancies, there is a high likelihood that you will not develop them.
Red Stretch Marks Under Control
As a result, it is important to control the appearance of red stretch marks since, over time, they will become whitish scars that are more challenging to eliminate. Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should use moisturizing creams that contain vitamin E and vitamin A to prevent their appearance.
Additionally, besides keeping the skin very hydrated, it is essential to monitor diet, which is basic and fundamental. A well-nourished pregnant woman who drinks enough water will not have dehydrated skin, making stretch marks less likely to appear.
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