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Stretch MarksDefined as "a fine pinkish-white or gray line, usually 14cm long, seen in parts of body where skin has been stretched. Commonly seen on thighs, abdomen and breasts of women who are or have been pregnant; in persons whose skin has been stretched by obesity, tumor or edema; or in persons who have taken adrenocortical hormones for a prolonged period." 1997 Tabers Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, edition 18 Contrary to popular belief, stretch marks are not gender specific. Both men and women are capable of developing these unsightly lines. In reality "stretch marks" can be called "stress marks" since they result from undue stress placed upon inner, more loosely packed dermal connective tissues. Stretch marks are small scars created when tiny dermal fissures are repaired. What causes stretch marks?Skin is an extremely elastic organ with a natural capacity to reshape to protect internal structures. To accomplish this, skin must be able to expand and contract to conform to the day to day changes in size and shape of the anatomical structures beneath it. An enlarging uterus, sudden and pronounced weight gain or swelling under the skin, can force it to stretch up to eight times its normal limits without rupturing. This is an amazing and phenomenal feat, but although the tightly packed layers of surface skin remain intact, the deeper, softer, less dense skin layers deep beneath the surface may succumb to tiny tears. These damaged areas are quickly repaired with new skin, but the repair process never quite 'catches up' to the damage process as the expanding areas under the skin continue their assault at the tear sites. Consequently, the fissures do not completely grow back together, but are rather "filled in" with new tissue. Where this occurs, skin is thinner, allowing non pigmented deep dermal layers and other internal structures like veins and arteries to show through. This accounts for the notably different skin tone on skin areas disfigured by "stretch marks". Elastin allows skin to "stretch" and is produced by flat, thin, spindle shaped dermal cells called fibroblasts; elastin fibers intertwine with rope like networks of proteins called collagen, also produced by fibroblast cells, to make a strong, durable malleable tissue. Dr. Clyde Johnson, Ph.D., noted biochemist, believed that protein production is dependent on available sources of vitamin C and calcium ions. Shortages of these nutrients in the body affect the fibroblasts' ability to create adequate collagen and elastin fibers to maintain skin's integrity. Changes in the acid/alkaline balance of the skin will also affect the skin's ability to stretch. If the skin becomes too acid it tends to contract. Fibers become very tightly compacted, leaving no room for elastin fiber expansion. Tissue dehydration is another contributing factor affecting the skin. As fibers become dehydrated and brittle, tissue damage and stretch marks may occur. To encourage and maintain the appearance of healthy skin tissue it can be helpful to topically apply necessary nutrients. Can stretch marks be prevented?Well conditioned, healthy skin from the inside out is capable of handling stress better than skin that is nutritionally deficient, dry or poorly cared for. Because healthy production of collagen and elastin fibers defines skin's natural resilience, properly maintaining skin tissue can help to minimize the appearance, occurrence and severity of stretch marks. Dr. Johnson developed a topically applied crème called "Mother's Crème" to be used on the abdomen of women during pregnancy before the appearance of stretch marks. To no one's surprise the crème was an immediate hit; helping women prevent the appearance of skin damage during pregnancy. Dr. Johnson proved fragile skin need not necessarily lead to damaged skin. Encouraged by the comments from clients using "Mother's Crème" and recognizing the product could improve the appearance of skin under stress Fanié's Super Moisturizer was formulated, with nutrients found "Mother's Crème" it helps encourage moisture balance and elasticity along with the appearance of skin stress. For maximum results crème should be applied after cleansing with Fanié Sweet Birch Body and Bath Cleanser, helping rid the skin of dirt and oil, is pH balanced and can be used by the whole family, young and old. Can I get rid of my stretch marks?Despite the most prudent preventative measures, some people will still develop stretch marks. The appearance of stressed skin can be diminished with a combination of therapies consisting of; proper cleansing, diet and exercise, application of nutrient rich cremes, body restyling wrap procedures, use of specially formulated enzyme active constrictor masques. Any or all of these procedures can produce remarkable progressive results. Dr. Johnson stated "Fanié Super Moisturizer will encourage healthy collagen and elastin production, as it can, help skin to retain moisture for softer, smoother look and feel". When using the enzyme masque he explained, "the Fanié enzyme masques compress the spaces between the dermal cells to firm up loose tissue around the scars, and hydrolyze skin cells, as constriction passively exercises muscles at the motor points to firm and lift".
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