Unlike those pesky zits that gradually heal and fade in time, adolescent stretch marks may very well mark you for life. And much similar to pimples, stretch marks can greatly affect a teenager’s self esteem and may become a contributing factor to lack of confidence, most especially given the fact that teens become more aware and conscious of their bodies.

Adolescent stretch marks have been known to be more common among girls than boys, which usually form on the hips, thighs, butts and breasts. This is largely brought about by sudden growth spurts and weight gains. Boys who actively engage in physical sports, especially in bodybuilding activities are also more prone to stretch marks, which become evidence on the rapid changes occurring in the teenage body.

It has also been suggested that the use of oral steroids may also be a contributing factor along with the application of topical steroid ointments and creams, most especially when used excessively. During the puberty stage, the body produces higher levels of hormones that circulate through the bloodstream. This is also thought to contribute in the formation of stretch marks.

The adolescent stretch marks often appear to be purple or silvery markings on the skin, much similar to scars. In view of the fact that society has imposed a standard if perfection that includes flawless skin, stretch marks are naturally considered unsightly. However, unlike adult stretch marks, the silvery linear tears in the skin often fade over time, although there are some that don’t really fade away.

Some of the known preventative measure of adolescent stretch marks includes regular exercises and plenty of stretching to effectively prevent fat from storing in certain areas prone to stretch marks. Through stretching, the skin will be given more opportunity to naturally expand without forcing the skin to stretch. Skin creams and moisturizers may also be applied on the skin on a regular basis to keep the skin supple and elastic enough to accommodate growth.

So what causes those belly stretch marks to develop? As you put on more weight during pregnancy and as the belly stretches to accommodate the growing baby, the skin is also stretched further. This causes the marks to appear during the seventh month of pregnancy. For some unlucky ones, the marks are not only confined on the belly but other areas as well such as arms, inner thighs, breasts and buttocks.

The marks typically start off barely unnoticeable with its thin red lines in parallel formation. This happens when the skin is stretched at an extended period of time. In some cases, belly stretch marks may gradually fade in time; there are some preventive steps that you can do to avoid having to suffer the same fate. Taking time to follow simple steps, especially during the first few months of pregnancy can spell a world of difference.

Maintaining a healthy diet is important in keeping your body properly nourished. It is also advisable to lightly massage the belly with moisturizers on a daily basis to improve the blood circulation as well as encourage the skin tissues to become more elastic. Unknown to many, water also plays a significant role, since keeping the skin hydrated is paramount of avoiding developing stretch marks.

With the growing number of people suffering from the ravages of stretch marks creams, products are now made available to provide prevention and treatment for this type of skin problem. Skin creams that contain alpha hydroxy acids that are derived from plant extracts have been known to better prepare the skin from developing belly stretch marks – something that you definitely would want to take advantage of.