If you are experiencing the embarrassment and discomfort of having stretch marks, look into stretch mark treatment. There are ways you can make your existing stretch marks less noticeable.

So what is a stretch mark? Some people think, probably due to the name of the condition, that stretch marks are caused by a ripping or tearing of the skin. Doctors in the know say that actually, these tiny scars are caused by hormones that change the elastin in your skin. Yes, when you gain weight, you can get stretch marks. But it's actually the hormonal changes associated with the weight gain that cause the marks.

Pregnant woman are definitely susceptible to getting stretch marks. Their hormones fluctuate greatly during pregnancy and they are also gaining weight. A double whammy. So what to do? Stretch mark treatment is not an overnight process. There are some remedies however, that will help make those annoying marks less noticeable.

Find yourself a good topical cream that lists retinoid as one of their top ingredients. Retinol-based products will help fade stretch marks. Alpha-hydroxy acids will also help make them less noticeable. To prevent stretch marks, use the topical creams twice or three times daily. If you already have stretch marks, you'll want to be sure to massage in the cream every day, several times a day as well. Of course, it's ideal if you can prevent the marks from ever happening, but if you already have stubborn stretch marks that are making you unhappy, you can work in the cream to help fade them.

Nothing is going to magically erase your stretch marks. If you find a product that says they can get rid of your stretch marks virtually overnight, pass on it. A good retinoid cream manufacturer will be honest and tell you that regular use of the cream will help make the marks less noticeable over time, but that they won't entirely vanish. Any claim of 100% removal of all marks is bogus.

If you have stretch marks and are looking for a good stretch mark treatment, go ahead and try a cream that features a good dose of retinoids. Use it faithfully and you will see results.