Stretch marks, known clinically as striae, are red or purple colored lines that appear on the skin when it gets overstretched. They take place when the collagen in the middle layer of skin called the dermis gets damaged. When it comes to the breasts, stretch marks often develop during pregnancy or when weight is gained or lost at a rapid pace. To prevent them, there are several steps you can take.
Step 1
Keep your weight under control by eating nutrient dense foods. Have your diet consist mainly of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products, whole grains and beans. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fat, simple sugars and sodium.
Step 2
Moisturize your skin in the morning and evening. Use a cream that has cocoa butter, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, collagen-elastin hydrolysates or panthenol. Apply it to your breasts and any other location where you might develop stretch marks such as your thighs, stomach and butt.
Step 3
Stay away from caffeinated beverages like coffee, soda and energy drinks that can cause your skin to become dehydrated. Drink water instead and aim for 8 to 10 cups a day.
Step 4
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day to help keep your weight down. Perform weight training exercises that target your whole body and mix in cardio. Weight training can help keep your metabolism elevated due to muscle gain, and cardio can help burn calories. Do weight training two to three times a week and cardio three to four times a week.
Step 5
Exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate circulation. Use a soft-bristled body brush or loofah on your breasts when you are in the shower. Go in circular motions and apply your skin cream when you step out being that your pores will be open.
Things You'll Need
- Soft bristled body brush
- Loofah
- Moisturizing cream
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