Why You Should Opt For Organic Skin Care Products

It is important that you are fully aware of the content of the beauty products that you use. It has been proven that what you apply on your skin will end up in your body. Surely, you would not want to put a pesticide laced fruit on your face nor a harmful, non-purified synthetic and toxic ingredient on your skin.Before making a big fuss on how you look, your number one concern should be your health and safety. It does not matter how you take or how you put a product on your skin, most of the ingredients will find their way inside your body. As our body absorbs these chemicals, we become more prone to allergies, hormonal and reproductive problems, and cancer. The effects of some toxins are immediate, while others show up after repeated exposure.Opting for organic skin care will limit our contact with harmful chemicals. When we say organic, it means that the ingredients came from plants, vegetables and fruits which have been grown and processed under a specific and strict set of ecological regulations. An organic label will give you an assurance that the ingredients will be fresher and contains a higher concentration of vitamins and nutrients. This would also mean that the product is more pure and should cause lesser reactions than synthetic and non-organic ingredients.


Clinical studies have shown that organic skin care products are as effective as those made of modified man-made ingredients.Here a few reasons why you should go for organic skin care:1. Organic beauty products are good for your skin. Certified organic products do not use pesticides or genetically modified ingredients.2. Organic skin care products do not destroy the environment. Organic farming is used to produce the skin care products, which means that no synthetic chemicals and fertilizers were used, therefore the volume of pollutants that is released in the environment is greatly reduced.3. Organic skin care is the only area of the skin care industry which is highly regulated.By opting to use organic ingredients on your body, you are also reducing the amount of toxins and chemical residues that are absorbed by your skin. When buying a product, make sure that it is certified by bearing a certification logo, which means that it has been independently approved and meets a specific standard. Check the ingredients list to see if there are organic ingredients contained in the product.

The Korean 10-Step Regimen to Flawless Skin

While the main skincare regimen of the West contains the steps of Cleansing, Toning, Moisturizing and Exfoliating, the Koreans of the East follow ten steps. With that much procedures, it's no surprise therefore why their skin is as flawless as we see it. Here are these ten steps you could follow to have skin as smooth and bright as they do.1. Removing Eye MakeupFind a good makeup remover to gently take out your eye makeup. Don't rely on a regular cleanser to perform this job as this assumption is what will leave a previous week's mascara on your eyelashes. This makeup remover would also be really helpful if you need to take out a long wear lipstick.2. CleansingThe golden rule to remember is to spend the same amount of time taking off what's on your face to the time you were putting it on. So let's say it took you forty-five minutes putting on your makeup, spend the same time wiping it off. Find a really good oil cleanser to suit your skin type and use this to massage your face in circular movements gently. The face massage is important as Koreans believe that this is what makes circulation increase, which translates to a brighter skin.3. ExfoliatingA natural exfoliant scrub does wonders in restoring your skin's softness so remember this step as this is the reason why Koreans have very smooth skin. Doing so two times a month is already good enough. Focus on your T-zone areas or sites where blackheads usually appear. For exfoliating one's face, the Koreans follow the rule, "less is more."4. RefreshingThis is the Korean's equivalent to Toning. It's basically done to aid in the removal of pollutants together with cleanser residues, while simultaneously recovering the pH balance of skin. More importantly, its main role is soothing and preparing skin for absorption of the essence, the procedure that follows. If you'll try their toners, you'll see that they're less drying and harsh to skin. Some also make use of natural ingredients like fermented bamboo extracts.5. Applying the EssenceThe essence application is considered the routine's most crucial step. Soaking your face to their treatment essence penetrates skin cells; thereby, speeding up rate of cell turnover which leaves skin brighter and smoother.


6. Applying the AmpouleThe Korean's equivalent to serums of the West, these ampoules are much like the essences but are more concentrated. Popular ampoules have they active component, bifida ferment lysate, which is great for fine line smoothing, sun brightening and sun spot fading.7. Applying the Sheet MaskThe sheet mask step is done two times a week but should your face be really dry, this could go beyond that number of times. These masks are wet and paper-like, abundant with collagen and penetrate your skin. There are a variety of sheet masks out there. Some contain Vitamin E which are good in anti-aging and avocado extracts, which are rich in antioxidants. What's the role of these sheet masks? They basically compel your skin to better absorb moisture and nutrients compared to applying a cream or serum alone. The instantaneous effects can be addictive. Just one use and you would feel your face a little plumper and definitely brighter brought about by your skin's absorption of all that moisture.8. Tapping the Eye CreamThe main difference of the way Koreans apply eye cream is that they tap it on skin surrounding the eye area. Apart from getting rid of pulling and tugging episodes, the product is also absorbed better.9. Applying the MoisturizerOkay, by now, you're probably shaking at all the things you need to apply to your skin but in case you haven't realized it yet, the Koreans method of beautification is all about layering. So even if you may already feel mummified at this point, still apply a generous amount of moisturizer and stroke it gently for deep skin penetration.10. Applying the Night CreamAnd we're down to the last step at last. Your face may feel funny but you have to admit that your skin now exhibits what the Koreans would say, a dewy "moist glow." The rule of the thumb to remember is your skin needs to be hydrated as you recharge for the night. The Korean trend is using ripened ingredients in their skin care; hence, go for creams that have fermented bamboo sap, lotus extracts and fruit water.

Conditions Causing Stretch Marks

The following are some common causes.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy there will be stretching of the anterior abdominal wall to accommodate the enlarging uterus. During the second half of pregnancy pinkish stretch marks start appearing on either side of the lower abdomen and later on become silvery white.

Obesity: Sudden weight gain due to excessive fat deposition can stretch the skin to develop stretch marks.

Puberty: During puberty both sexes will have increase in fat deposition and body surface area that are due to hormonal activity, which results in stretch marks. Compared to boys, fat deposition is more in girls and hence they are found more among girls during puberty.

Cushing's syndrome: This is an endocrine disease due to the hypo-secretion of adrenal hormones. Here there will be obesity with marked body marks

Bodybuilding: Stretching of the skin due to excess of physical activity is the main cause here. Bodybuilding causes sudden enlargement of muscle size resulting in more skin marks. The common sites are shoulders, thighs, deltoid region, gluteal region etc.

Medicines: Frequent use of steroid medicines and topical steroid creams can result in skin marks. Topical drugs can cause insufficient production of collagen and elastin resulting in the weakness of skin.

Edema: Edema is the collection of fluid in the intercellular space. This can occur anywhere in the body. Prolonged edema due to kidney and liver diseases can stretch the abdomen and cause.skin marks

Weight loss: Both rapid weight gain and rapid weight loss can cause the development stretch marks.

Miscellaneous: All conditions that hamper collagen synthesis result in stretch marks.



WHERE STRETCH MARKS ARE FOUNDMarks in women body are found in conditions like pregnancy, puberty, obesity etc. and are usually seen in areas like abdomen, thighs, breasts, buttocks, shoulders etc.
Abdomen: Abdomen is mainly affected during pregnancy. In obese individuals excess fat deposition in the abdominal wall can also result in stretch marks. Ascites is a condition wherein excess of fluid is collected in the peritoneal cavity due to different causes, which stretch the abdominal wall. Similarly, any large lump or tumor in the abdomen can also cause stretching of skin.

Thighs: Seen mainly in weight lifters and body builders. Obesity and puberty also cause stretch marks in this region.

Breasts: Enlargement of breasts is one of the secondary sexual characters in females. During puberty marks in the body may appear on breasts that will be doubled by obesity. However marks in women body are more common during pregnancy due to enlargement and engorgement of the breasts. Stretch marks become more prominent when the breasts become pendulous or sagged with the advancement of age.

Buttocks: Ma appear here mainly during puberty. Girls are more affected than boys due to the development of typical feminine structure. Fat deposition is more in this area. Exercise and obesity affect both sexes equally.

Shoulders: Here marks in the body are mainly due to exercise and hypertrophy of shoulder muscles. Deltoid region is mainly affected.

Other sites: Swellings due to conditions like fat deposition, tumors or edema can result in marks in any part of the body. Lymph edema is due to the obstruction of flow of lymph, which causes stretch marks mainly in the extremities.
Once these marks appear, certain time is required for them to be less prominent.

Best Body Moisturizer

Are you still hunting for perfect moisturizer for your cracked and dry skin? If nothing works for your dry skin, you needn't worry as I have listed down some of the best moisturizer available for your daily skin regime.Dry skin is caused due to many factors ranging from winters or using harsh soaps and shower gels that remove moisture from your skin. If you want to avoid itching and rashes on the skin then it's essential if you keep it moisturized. To avoid the itching and rashes that come with dry skin, it is important to keep it moisturized.The best body lotions or moisturizers available that really work wonder for dry skin have been listed below.The Body Shop Cocoa Butter LotionThis lightweight lotion is highly rich in sweet cocoa butter, which leaves the skin soft and supple. This moisturizing lotion has a sweet cocoa scent and work wonders to reduce scars. Grab it today and use at night for maximum effects.Dove Moisturizer for dry skinIf you don't mention Dove lotion in any list of skin care products then you need to look again. The wide range of Dove moisturizing lotions are rich enticing cream oil blend. The moisture-loaded mixture of shea butter and skin nourishing oil helps in bringing the essential moisture. They get absorbed fast and leave your skin extra soft, nourished and beautiful.Nivea Range of Body LotionNivea, the world's leader in skincare products, has range of rich care lotions with the caring formula to treat dry skin. The lotions are enriched with minerals and almond oil to promote instant effective and continuous relief from dry skin. These lotions are helpful in reducing roughness immediately; enjoy smoother skin with minute amount of these lotions.


Neutrogena Body MoisturizerThis dermatologically tested body moisturizer from Neutrogena is budget-friendly yet effective. It hydrates skin with moisture levels that last for a day. The lotion has a non-greasy glycerin-rich formula, which deeply penetrates and makes your skin smooth within few minutes.Aveeno Active Naturals Skin Relief Calming LotionAveeno Active Naturals Skin Relief Calming Lotion contains helps in keeping the skin smooth and supple throughout the day. It has the triple oat complex that leaves the skin glowing, moist and healthy. Use this one at night for immediate relief from dry and itchy skin.Level Naturals Forest Body ButterAre you looking for something to instantly smooth out the itchiness and roughness? Grab this little piece of wonder in your bag and carry it wherever you want. The yummy smell with moisture giving factor leaves the skin smooth, beautiful and glowing. The regular usage helps in fading away marks. You won't mind paying little extra for this one.It doesn't matter whatever you use during daytime, the golden rule is to apply lotions at night so that it can help you in keeping your skin moisturized while you sleep. So, what are you waiting for? Buy a moisturizer and get the perfect dose for your dry skin.

How To Shave Without Shaving Cream

Do you know how to shave without shaving cream? This is something that most people don't know and it is very important that you do. The reason why you need to know how to shave without shaving cream is because there will come a time in your life when you just don't have any with you.Before I show you the right way to shave without any shaving cream, I first want to make sure that you know how important a sharp shaver is. Without a sharp shaver you will find it very difficult shave because all you will be doing is pulling the hair as opposed to cutting it as close to the skin as possible. Don't think that a good shaving cream is a remedy for a dull shaver because it really isn't.There are three things that you will need in order to give yourself a decent shave without any shaving cream. The things that you will need are; hot water, soap and a warm towel or cloth. The reason you need all of these things is because you will want to soak the towel in hot water and then place it on your face or wherever you plan on shaving.After you have placed the hot towel on your face you will need to apply the soap. Although, you don't have shaving cream, soap will make your skin slick enough to prevent irritation. My only recommendation is that you avoid shaving places that don't have any soap. If the soap already came off, then it is time to reapply it or else you will risk getting skin irritation.


When you shave it is imperative that you use the hot water to rinse the shaver. The reason you need to do this is to help clean the razor while keeping the blades hot enough to quickly and easily cut your hair. It doesn't matter if you have a lot of hair or a little bit, you still should utilize the effectiveness of hot blades. Most people don't realize how much better hot blades cut compared to cold ones but once you try this you will never shave without hot water again.Shaving is not always easy but as long as you know what to do, then it should be no problem. Just remember what you learned here today because you never know when somebody will ask you if you know how to shave without shaving cream.

5 Skin Types!

Now, before you go out and by skin care products, the first thing you should know is your skin type. We all come in different shapes and sizes... and different types of skin. So which one is yours?Skin types vary depending upon factors: water content, oil and sensitivity level.There are five different types of skin types: normal, oily, sensitive, dry and combination.NormalIf you have normal skin, it is neither too dry or too oily. It has few imperfections, no severe sensitivity, barely visible pores and a radiant complexion.OilyOily skin can produce enlarged pores, dull or shiny complexion and blackheads, pimples and other blemishes. Oiliness can change depending on the time of the year or the weather. It can worsened by stress and too much exposure to heat.Tips for Oily Skin:Wash your face twice a day- once in the morning and once before bed.
Use a gentle cleanser and do not scrub!
Remember oily skin still needs to be moisturized. Try using water based or oil-free moisturizers.
Exfoliate once a week to remove dirt and oil in your pores.SensitiveIf you have sensitive skin, it could be for a variety or reasons and the trick is to find the trigger. Could it be the kind of fabric you're wearing or sleeping on? Face care products? Allergies? Sensitive skin can be red, itchy, burning and dry.Tips for Sensitive Skin:Use sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Stay hydrated.
Wash your skin thoroughly and moisturize.
Test products before apply them.


DryDry skin types produce almost invisible pores, dull complexion, red patches, less elasticity and more visible lines. When exposed, skin can crack, peel or become irritated and itchy. Dry skin can be caused by aging, weather, genetics, long and hot baths, or ingredients in soaps, cosmetics and cleansers.Tips for Dry Skin:Take shorter, cooler baths.
Use mild, gentle soaps and cleansers and do not scrub while bathing or drying!
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Oils and creams may work better than lotions.CombinationWhen it comes to combination skin, it can be dry or normal in some areas and then oily in others (such as the T-zone). There are more people with combination skin. It can produce overly dilated pores, black heads and shiny skin.Tips for Combination Skin Type:Balance is key! Use products that work for combination skin.
Avoid using harsh scrubs which can cause irritation.
Protect your skin with sunscreen daily.
Use a weekly face mask to balance out your skin.
Don't use products that have fragrances, oils, alcohol or irritants.
Knowing your skin type is absolutely necessary in order to make the right decisions for skin care products, treatments and make-up. Also, the health and beauty of your skin depends on what you eat and how you take care of yourself. Put the right nutrients into your body and it will thank you in return!So, what is your skin type?

Get Deeper Meditation Naturally

Meditation seems simple enough. Just relax and clear your mind for a few minutes. Getting good at it takes some practice, though. Busy thoughts crop up, outside noises distract, and creaky bones and joints demand attention.What Is Meditation?Meditation has been known for thousands of years as a way to eliminate stressful thoughts and quiet the conscious mind. The most important consequence of meditation is to stimulate the flow of the body's chi energy, which is the basis for good mental and physical health. Stress can otherwise disrupt the flow of chi energy or even block it entirely.From the modern view of western science, meditation can be described by brain wave patterns. Our awake consciousness is characterized by beta waves, which measure at 15-30 Hz (I.e., cycles per second, called Hertz). Lower frequency alpha waves (9-14 Hz) indicate a relaxed, calm meditative state. Still deeper meditation occurs at even lower frequency theta waves (4-8 Hz).Benefits of MeditationSince the 1970s research on the health benefits of spending a few minutes every day in alpha or beta wave states shows the value of deep meditation. Even mainstream health information for patients at medical institutions such as the Mayo Clinic talks about the value of meditation. The list includes both emotional and physical benefits. Emotionally, you can gain a new perspective on stressful situations, build skills to manage stress, increase self-awareness, focus on the present, and reduce negative emotions. Physical benefits include preventing or managing mental and physical illnesses that are caused or made worse by stress.


Spending time in a meditative state every day simply makes life better.Role of Skin Care in MeditationImagine yourself settling into in a warm, relaxing bath that contains ancient herbs known for their ability to unblock and renew the free flow of your chi energy. Such herbs have been used for this purpose for at least as long as people have been practicing meditation. One of the best is mulberry root bark for its ability to aid relaxation by lowering blood pressure. In addition, Chinese Clematis and Stephaniae, specifically address soreness that can distract meditation.Traditional Chinese Medicine includes many more herbs for relaxing and relieving stress. The list is extensive, including such herbs as Licorice Root, Asparagus Tuber, Schisandrae, Angelica, Poria Cocos, Astragalus, Folium Perillae, Goji Berry, Sophora, Ginseng, Euphoriae, and Green Tea.Remember, meditation is your ticket to releasing the stress of modern living. The right herbs will help you deepen your meditation naturally.

7 Most Common Questions You Should Ask the Dermatologist During a Consultation

Here are a few questions to ask when you have a consultation at a Dermatologist appointment.Have you ever gone to a dermatologist for a consultation and forget to ask an important question or three, ESPECIALLY if those questions were the main reason why you went there to begin with?The best method would be to write the questions down before your appointment and make sure you refer to the list during your meeting with them.Never be intimidated by your doctor. If they seem impatient with your questions or to be in a rush, let them know this is important to you.It's important to build a relationship with your doctor based on trust.Below are 7 questions to ask your dermatologist. There are 7 expected responses below each question, but make sure the doctor gives you THEIR opinion of the questions.1 - What is the importance of exfoliation for the skin?Exfoliation is basically the removal of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This is important because, as we get older, our bodies do not regenerate as often as in our youth. This attributes to dry, dead skin building up creating a rough to the touch feeling. Because this dead skin builds up on the surface, it begins to clog the pores. This clogging can cause acne and skin blemishes.Exfoliation brings your skin closest to it's natural form, bringing back the radiance that it should have.2 - Is it essential to get Sunlight for healthier skin?Your skin is a protective barrier to your organs. It blocks bacteria and damaging organisms from entering the body. Sunlight helps get rid of bacteria.Some skin conditions can be cured, or, at least, improved by the proper amount of sun.Of course, too much sunlight can damage your skin.Vitamin D is the GOOD part of the sun... UV Rays are the BAD parts of the sun to be avoided...3 - Are there any foods that harm the complexion? If so, what are they?There are no scientific findings that prove that any particular 'food' can be damaging to the complexion. However, processed 'junk' food, along with


preservatives and sweeteners such as sugar may cause allergies and retain liquid due to the sodium / salt content.Glycation is caused by foods high in sugar and accelerate the aging process. Basically, glycation is the process of which the sugar attacks the proteins that make your skin look youthful and vibrant.So, if you want younger looking skin, lay off of the sweets.4 - How do you choose the best moisturizer?You can look for a moisturizer that has alpha hydroxy acid because it will exfoliate dead skin.They say your best choice would be to find a skin moisturizer that contains glycerin, propylene glycol, proteins, urea, and vitamins. Mineral oil and lanolin help seal in moisture, where-as, the previous 5 ingredients help attract water to the outside layer of the skin.Ask the doctor what they recommend with your skin type and condition.5 - How do you remove blackheads safely?Ask the dermatologist what is the safest. The following list of items can be used to remove blackheads safely and non-evasively:(or, minimally invasive, at least.)* Nutmeg and Buttermilk* Baking soda and water* toothpaste and salt* Honey* Mud Masks mixed with filtered water, Lemon water, or Apple Cider Vinegar6 - What to do with the pimples that appear after puberty?There are 4 known ways to treating Acne;Natural and/or homeopathic treatments,over the counter topical medicines,Prescription oral medicines, andprescription topical medicines.Ask your dermatologist what is best for your skin type and health.7 - How do you handle large pores? (and blemishes)You can use a wash cloth wet with lemon and pineapple juice.Also, you can use the inside of a banana peel, as well.As mentioned previously, baking soda and warm water mixture works, too.Ice and very cold water will also shrink pores.Remember, they say your pores shrink with cold, expand with heat.Again, Ask your dermatologist. They will have the answer.

What Are the Useful Methods for Scleroderma Treatment?

Different people may suffer from different types of scleroderma. It occurs in different stages and it is important to determine the stage of scleroderma for getting the right treatment. On the basis of your symptoms, stage and type of scleroderma, your physician can suggest you a customized treatment for your scleroderma. There are some important features of this disease and it is important to know these factors. The factors that determine the disease include: stage of inflammation, autoimmune dysfunction, presence of vascular disease and extent of fibrosis in the tissues.There are two types of inflammation. In the first type, there is joint inflammation, inflammation of the muscles, inflammation of heart and inflammation of the lungs. Generally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given for this stage of inflammation. In some cases, people do not get relief from NSAIDs. In second type of inflammation, there is inflammation of the skin and other tissues. This type of inflammation is not relieved by anti-inflammatory remedies. Some doctors also prescribe immunosuppressive remedies to restrict the progress of inflammation. They want to suppress the activity of the immune system. Medications are given to reduce the vascular changes produced by scleroderma.


It is easily to recognize the symptoms of scleroderma. If you know the symptoms you can easily recognize them. If you notice some symptoms of scleroderma, it is necessary to consult your physician. Early detection and right treatment can help to prevent the complications. Different people may have different symptoms of the disease. You can live a long life if symptoms are detected early in life and you start taking the right treatment for your disease. You will start noticing hard patches on your skin. These are oval in shape and may differ in size. The skin around may have a purplish appearance and this surely indicates the presence of scleroderma. It may be present in some parts of the body.DMSO of dimethyl sulfoxide is also used for the treatment of scleroderma. It is an anti-fibrotic agent and helps in addressing the excessive production of collagen in the skin and other organs. DMSO helps in reducing the producing the collagen. It is also an effective remedy for reducing any kind of pain that may arise due to fibrosis in the tissues. It prevents inflammation of the joints. You can use DMSO as an external application as it is quickly absorbed by the skin and helps in dissolving the hard tissues quickly and also gives you relief from pain.

How To Manage Stretch Marks

. External applications:Topical creams and moisturizers, skin firming agents and skin hydrators are available in different trade names but they give fewer results in long standing cases; however the following topical agents are widely used with varying results.Topical agents are supposed to promote collagen synthesis when applied on the affected skin.
Topical retinoid therapy (retin A treatment)
Examples: - Retinaldehyde, tretinoin, Isotretinoin, adapalene etc are used. Tretinoin should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.
Glycolic acid creams are used to remove the outer layers of the skin.
Silicon dioxide is used with some benefits.
Elastin cream can promote formation of elastin.
Hydroxyproline containing creams are useful.
Alpha hydroxyl acids (8 to 10%) are used with good results.
Glycerol is used as a moisturizer.
Topical vitamins (E, A & K).
Vitamin E oil is commonly used.
Creams containing marine tissue extract are useful externally.
Antioxidants (they act as scavengers of free radicals).
Vaseline is routinely applied on the skin.
Biopeptide CL containing creams are useful.
Topical sunless tanning products are also useful.
Some naturally available substances are also used with good results, which are mentioned under a separate heading.2. Masking methods: Here the stretch marks are not removed, but kept covered by appropriate dressing and other methods like tattoo or ornaments etc.3. Dermabrasion: Here the superficial layer of the skin is removed by a procedure called micro dermabrasion, which will increase collagen production resulting in the formation of normal healthy skin. This method is recommended for those who do not prefer painful and expensive surgical techniques. This is the cheapest and harmless method among all types of skin resurfacing techniques. Here no chemicals or medicines are required. Micro dermabrasion involves the use of a pen like instrument that sandblasts the skin with tiny crystals to remove the cells in the superficial layer of the skin. On an average 10 to 12 sittings are needed for a better result.4. Skin remodeling: Here needles or lasers are used. Needle pricks can induce collagen production in the affected area.5. Chemical peeling: Here some chemicals in cream base are applied on the affected area. These creams can remove the epidermis of the skin. The dermis can produce more collagen and gradually normal skin is formed.


However this method is painful and may even cause skin injury due to some reactions.Glycolic acid and Jessner's peels are commonly used. For medium depth peeling Trichloracetic acid is used. Here the skin becomes red & swollen for a few days and gradually becomes normal.6. Laser treatment: This is the most commonly used method, which gives better result than any other method. Statistics show that about 70% of cases treated with a laser have given good results. However, laser cant give good results in all cases as it works on certain skin types.Different types of lasers are used on the basis of the color of skin. Here a narrow beam of laser is transmitted through the affected skin that can stimulate the production of collagen. Laser can stimulate the division of fibroblasts of the skin, thereby promotes tissue repair. It is true that laser cant remove stretch marks, but improves their appearance. Dual laser treatment is effective after a few sittings. Pulse dye laser therapy is also used with sizeable results and is a better choice among different laser treatments. However laser therapy is expensive and also causes pain during the procedure. More over five to six sittings are needed to make some noticeable improvement. Laser therapy gives better results in red raised scars and pinkish stretch marks. However, modern laser therapy is very expensive.7. Cosmetic Surgery: Here surgical methods like skin grafting, skin reduction, liposuction etc are done. In case of horrible abdominal stretch marks with folded skin due to fat deposition that does not respond to normal methods can be managed by abdominoplasty. However this method is very expensive and may cause scars on the operated site.8. Endermologie:This mode of treatment was invented in France. Here, a special machine is used to massage the affected site with the help of rollers and a suctioning action of the machine. This method is supposed to improve the blood circulation and removal of toxic substances from the skin. It can also strengthen the connective tissues of the skin. Series of endermologie procedures have given marked improvement in the appearance of stretch marks.10. Anti depressive medicines: Those who are over anxious about stretch marks need mild doses of antidepressants and psychotherapy.

Information About Stretch Marks

The number of people attending beauty clinics and dermatology departments is increasing day by day. Even though skin diseases have a negligible mortality rate, most people are worried about skin problems on account of the social stigma. A person with a disease involving an internal organ may not be as worried as another suffering from a skin ailment in view of the simple reason that everyone can expressly notice the change in the latter in the form of a distortion or plain ugliness.STRUCTURE OF THE SKINThe skin has three layers - The outer layer called the epidermis, the inner one called the hypodermis and the dermis in between these two. The epidermis is made up of keratinocytes and melanocytes. The dermis contains fibers made up of proteins such as collagen and elastin with a gel like ground substance to fill the gap between the protein fibers. The inner hypodermis contains fat and connective tissues with blood vessels and nerves.Collagen: It is a structural protein that forms 80% of connective tissues. It acts as a cementing substance between body cells. The rate of tissue repair depends on the production of collagen. Conditions that hamper collagen formation can delay wound healing.Elastin: It is also a protein that maintains the elasticity of the skin. Along with collagen and glycosaminoglycans it forms the connective tissue.The human skin has got several functions such as protection, heat regulation, water balance, excretion etc. It supports the deep body structures and is capable of stretching to some extent due to the presence of elastic protein fibers in the dermis. But too fast enlargement of the body parts cause excessive stretching of the skin, resulting in the breaking of collagen and elastin fibers of the dermis. This causes a slightly depressed discoloration called stria atrophia or stretch marks. Initially these marks are slightly pinkish and later become white or silvery in appearance.FACTORS AFFECTING THE SKINCertain factors are closely related with the quality of the skin. The color of the skin changes according to racial and genetic factors. A healthy skin should be elastic and free from excess dryness. It should be free from lesions such as eruptions, macules, papules, vesicles, pustules etc.


The following factors are closely related with the quality of skin.
Hereditary factors
Environmental factors
Food intake
Nutrition
Water intake
General health
Sensitivity towards external factors
Self care
Hygiene
Mental and emotional status
Occupation
Life style
SYNONYMSDifferent terms are used to denote it
Striae atrophicae.
Vergetures.
Striae cutis distensae.
Stria gravidarum (stretch marks during pregnancy).
Lineae atrophicae.
Striae distensae.
Linea labicante.
SOME MYTHS ABOUT STRETCH MARKS
Only women are affected by it.
Only obese and pregnant ladies get stretch marks.
They persist forever.
They increase with time.
They spread allover the body.
Stretch marks indicate ill health.
They indicate loss of physical beauty.
They can progress to leucoderma.
They are contagious.
SOME FACTS ABOUT STRETCH MARKS
Both sexes are affected by this skin disorder
People in both extremes of life are affected.
Both obese and slim people get
70% of teenage girls get it
90% of pregnant ladies get it
Stretch marks may persist for a long time but become less noticeable later.
Regular exercise prevents stretch marks, whereas vigorous exercise and bodybuilding can result in stretch marks.
Modern treatment methods are effective, but expensive.
Chemical peeling and laser therapy may cause pain and scarring.
Natural methods are cheap and free from side effects.