Is there a solution for stretch marks? | Economic Times

Flawless skin is a myth. It can be found only in movies or through a photo-editing tool. Last month, Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut revealed that she was left with permanent stretch marks after gaining and losing 20 kg in 1 year for her role in 'Thalaivii', a movie based on the life of late politician and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.While her revelation was met with a lot of appreciation, it posed the biggest question of all: "what's the best way to deal with stretch marks?"

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As Ranaut said, stretch marks are permanent and will never disappear. However, Dr Rajendra S Gujjalanavar, Senior Consultant & HOD - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, said they can fade or become less visible over time."Stretch marks are caused due to a tear deep inside your skin. There is no absolute cure for it, but treatment may make them less noticeable," he added.Explaining about the skin's wear and tear, Dr Sathish N, Senior Consultant - Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgeon at Columbia Asia Referral Hospitals, Yeshwanthpur (A Unit of Manipal Hospitals), Bengaluru, said stretch marks — also called as striae distensae — are caused due to scars that develop in the dermal layer of the skin. The skin has three layers — the epidermis (superficial layer), the dermis (middle layer) and the subcutis (innermost layer). The dermis consists of collagen and elastin fibres that provide support to the skin and are necessary to keep the skin tight. When these fibres are stretched beyond their limits, they rupture at the deeper layers of the dermis. "The skin tends to repair this disrupted elastic network, but the repair is incomplete and ineffective. As a result, it leads to loose skin and stretch marks. This is more so when there is an increase in cortisone. Cortisone tends to stop collagen and elastin formation by certain cells in the dermis called fibroblasts," he added.Both Dr Gujjalanavar and Dr Sathish blamed repeated gain and loss of weight for stretch marks becoming permanent. Though they are common in women, stretch marks can also be seen in men who tend to have rapid weight gain/loss. The causes of stretch marks can be weight gain during adolescence and pregnancy, family history, medications (steroids), rapid weight loss, weight training when there is rapid muscle growth, and due to some genetic disorders.Dr Sathish said around 90 per cent of people with a family history of weight gain or being overweight have fluctuations in cortisone levels and tend to develop these marks. Controlling weight was one of the most-helpful ways to prevent stretch marks, Dr Gujjalanavar said, whether you're pregnant or not. 87137247How To Get Rid Of Stretch Marks?Improving the overall appearance of skin after getting stretch marks takes patience and a routine. Several activities such as eating right, massaging and working out can promote healing and prevent stretch marks, according to Dr Gujjalanavar.Massaging may be beneficial for skin with stretch marks. Apply a moisturising cream, lotion or oil that contains petroleum jelly on your skin in circular motions. This can promote new tissue growth and break down the bands of collagen that form in the underlying tissue, leading to stretch marks.Exercise also helps reduce the marks. Such activities promote the creation of antioxidants and enable blood flow that stimulates new collagen. While there is no strong scientific evidence, Dr Sathish said some reports have claimed that use of centella (a herb called pennywort or brahmi) or hyaluronic acid (naturally found in the body's connective tissue) might help in fading some new marks.Food, too, has the power to do wonders to the skin, said Dr Gujjalanavar.Vitamin C & E help in producing collagen and cartilage, so does zinc. Following a diet rich in these nutrients can increase the production of collagen and reduce the chances of getting stretch marks. "Bright orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots and mangoes, and leafy greens such as spinach and kale help in healing of stretch marks," he added.Dr Sathish said various treatments like laser, microdermabrasion, tretinoin and carboxytherapy can also help but these will only make the marks lighter. 87107206Diet To Ensure A Healthy Weight Loss/GainStriking a balance between energy intake and energy output is vital to maintain a healthy weight. Which means, following a diet and exercise pattern consistently can help in striking a balance, said Reddy Jyothsna, HOD & Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru.She also pointed out that a moderate calorie restriction and consuming macronutrients is key. More protein should be consumed than carbohydrates or fat. A change in the dietary composition to reduce intake of saturated fats and salt and increase fibre consumption is also necessary.Choose healthy cooking methods and dishes that are steamed, pressure cooked or done in less amount of oil. Also, be watchful of snacking, said Jyothsna. "Choose healthy options of lean proteins, nuts, oily seeds, vegetables and fruits. Don’t opt for sugary or oily options."She also recommended limiting the intake of sugar, salt and spices. Keep your body well-hydrated — with water or puree or soups or juices — and junk sugary drinks. A regular increase in duration/intensity of physical activity and a consistent routine can help increase the basal metabolic rate — the number of calories a body burns while doing only basic functions.All said and done, experts added, there is absolutely no need to stress yourself out over some stretch marks, so long as you are happy and healthy.