Stretch marks are a common concern for many individuals, especially those who engage in regular exercise. Whether you're aiming to shed a few kilos, build muscle, or improve your overall fitness, the appearance of stretch marks can be disheartening. Understanding what causes stretch marks and how certain exercise habits can increase their likelihood is essential for managing and preventing their occurrence. In this article, we will delve into the factors that contribute to stretch marks, identify exercise habits that may increase their likelihood, and explore strategies to minimise their appearance.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
According to a clinical and aesthetic dermatologist, Dr Swati Mutha, "Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched beyond the normal point, leading to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres. This stretching can cause the underlying layers of the skin to tear, resulting in stretch marks. While genetics and hormonal factors play a significant role in their development, certain exercise habits can increase the likelihood of their occurrence, Dr Mutha added.
Exercise Habits That Increase The Likelihood Of Stretch Marks
1) Weight Fluctuation
"Engaging in rapid weight gain or loss can put the skin under strain," said Dr Mutha. When the body undergoes significant fluctuations in weight within a short period, such as gaining muscle mass quickly or losing a significant amount of weight rapidly, the skin may struggle to adapt, leading to the development of stretch marks.
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2) Ignoring Warm-up And Cool-down
Skipping warm-up and cool-down exercises can increase the risk of stretch marks. Dr Mutha emphasised that an adequate warm-up prepares the body for exercise by increasing blood flow and flexibility, while a cool-down helps with recovery and prevents excessive strain on the skin and muscles.
3) Overtraining
Overtraining and engaging in intense workouts without allowing enough time for recovery can make the skin more prone to stretch marks. Dr Mutha pointed out that overtraining places excessive stress on the body, including the skin, making it more vulnerable to developing stretch marks. Balancing workout intensity with sufficient rest and recovery periods is crucial for minimising the risk of stretch marks, she advised.
Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
Dr Mutha stated that stretch marks are a common occurrence and may not be fully avoidable. Here are some precautions you can do to reduce their likelihood:
Consistent Hydration
Staying properly hydrated is essential for maintaining the elasticity and health of your skin. Drink enough water throughout the day, especially during and after exercise, to support your skin's resilience, Dr Mutha stated.
Proper Nutrition
Dr Mutha said that consuming foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats enhances the quality of your skin.
Stretch Marks From Exercise Vs Pregnancy
While stretch marks resulting from exercise and those caused by pregnancy share similarities, there are some notable differences:
Location
Exercise-related stretch marks often occur in areas where the skin is under significant tension, such as the thighs, buttocks, and upper arms. said Dr Mutha. In contrast, stretch marks from pregnancy commonly appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, and thighs.
Timing
Stretch marks from exercise can develop relatively quickly, especially if there are rapid changes in weight or muscle growth. Dr Mutha advocated that marks associated with pregnancy tend to develop gradually over several months as the skin stretches to accommodate a growing baby.
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Hormonal Factors
Pregnancy-related stretch marks are influenced by hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of cortisol and estrogen. These hormonal fluctuations can weaken the skin's elasticity. Exercise-related stretch marks, while influenced by hormones to some extent, are primarily a result of rapid weight changes and increased tension on the skin, Dr Mutha concluded.
Pro-tip
Dr Mathu recommended that you make it a habit to apply moisturiser and keep your skin hydrated. This is because when the skin is dry, it stretches more and marks appear.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]
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