Essential Things to Know About Stretch Marks and Cellulite

As women’s skin ages, it often develops new textures that can be seen in the form of cellulite and stretch marks. Cellulite takes the form of a bumpy, indented skin texture that some describe as being similar to an orange peel, and stretch marks have an appearance of thin lines across the skin, and may have a deeper color than your normal skin tone. Though up to 90% of women around the world encounter these marks on their skin, the appearance of these conditions is typically met with disdain and a desire to change their skin to be smoother. With beauty standards prizing flawless skin, it’s no wonder why women often seem to misunderstand their bodies as they develop these conditions. As you may find these marks on your own body, here are some essential things you should know about these widespread and totally normal conditions. 

The Causes of Cellulite and Stretch Marks

Cellulite is almost exclusively a woman’s issue due to the unique structure of the fat cells underneath women’s skin. Instead of a smooth layer, fat is stored instead in more cylindrical shapes stacked close to each other. Over time, the skin can start to sag and fall differently against the fat and organs below it, revealing more of the true texture. Cases can be mild, or quite noticeable depending on your specific body. The causes are mostly due to hormonal changes in the body, even from the start of puberty. However, other factors can also come into play, such as genetic disposition, or even inactivity and weight gain, which can cause cellulite to appear even more visible. 

Stretch marks, on the other hand, develop as the skin stretches, leaving a permanent scar on the body. These marks are usually found on areas around the stomach, hips, breasts, and thighs, but could occur on nearly any part of the skin. These marks can be a dark red or brown color, to barely noticeable on the skin, and can have varying lengths and sizes. This condition also has more easily identifiable causes. Pregnancy is a huge contributor to stretch marks, as many women find them as their belly stretches to accommodate a baby. In addition, stretch marks can be caused by weight gain or even through simple changes that occur during puberty. 

It’s a Normal Part of Life

Many women lament their cellulite and stretch marks as a loss of their youth, but they are both a completely normal and expected part of aging. Furthermore, these marks can show up in women who are quite young due to certain factors such as excessive growth which means there is nothing to be worried about if teens and young women notice their skin behaving this way. Some women today are now choosing to wear their marks with pride, as a symbol of appreciating and embracing their changing bodies. 

They can be treated

Though there is no medical worry for cellulite or stretch marks, many women still remain unhappy with the way their skin looks and desire to eliminate these issues and improve their skin texture. While there is not much to be done in terms of preventing these conditions, there are a number of medical procedures to help reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. These treatments often include laser and radio wave therapy, ultrasounds, prescription creams, and various methods of fat removal. 

Whether you choose to view your cellulite and stretch marks as a nuisance or empowerment, remember to be kind to your body and its efforts as you continue your journey through life.