It is a common belief that stretch marks appear only during pregnancy, this statement is not totally true. Stretch marks appear at any point in time when the skin has been stretched greatly over a short period of time. So if you gain a few pound over a short period of time, you will notice the red and purple streaks on the parts of your body where you have gained weight.

Yes, 90% of pregnant women do see the appearance of stretch marks around the 6 or 7 month of their pregnancy. However, drinking lots of water and maintaining a healthy balanced diet reduce the attack. The water hydrates the skin thus making it more elastic and susceptible.

While science and technology have not come up with a cure for stretch marks, many home remedies and over the counter creams seem to help reduce the marks. Most moisturizers ad cold creams contain elastin or collagen in some form. The help to hydrate the skin, increase the elasticity and reduce the appearance of marks during periods of weight gain or pregnancy.

If the marks do not fade away within 6 month post pregnancy or weight loss one may tend to look at cosmetic surgery. Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic surgery that takes care of such cases. However one must do this under the guidance of a certified practitioner. The surgery involves removal of the outer layer of skin to reveal the lower layer and an overall smooth texture. The treatment claims to be painless, yet a general anesthetic is recommended.

Laser treatments are also available. This should be attempted only on skin that has been scarred for longer periods of time.

If you are pregnant or are gaining weight and feelthe need to do something about it, look for a stretch mark cream that is non –greasy,one that will be absorbed by your skin quickly and follow the directions on the box.