Supermodels SA June 2013 | Page 18

BEAUTY Stretch Marks Is It Getting Under Your.....Skin? Stretch marks are a type of scar that occurs beneath the skin. It’s formed when the substance located in the deeper layers of the skin stretches and eventually tears. This causes scars to form just like any oth- How to Prevent Stretch Marks er open wound when it heals. Stay Hydrated! The reason you should consistently drink water is that water will help keep your skin more elastic. If Stretch marks can be formed your skin is more elastic and it does stretch, it will more easby several different things such ily return back to its original form without tearing. Another as sudden muscle gain, rapid reason to drink water is that it will also help you maintain weight gain or loss, pregnan- weight as it helps control hunger and aid in healthy digestion. cy, puberty, etc. Essentially Eat Healthier! anything that causes the rapid This is going to sound pretty obvious, but a lot of people shrinking or expanding of the don’t do it. Eat foods that promote healthy skin. Look on food labels and see if they contain plenty of protein and vitacollagen can cause a stretch mark. For most people, stretch mins A, C, D or zinc. marks can be easily and completely prevented if you follow a few simple tips. Always eat in moderation. Not only eat healthy, but don’t eat too much. Consistency is the key to avoiding excessive stretching of the skin. Think about your skin like a rubber band. If you slowly pull the rubber band to its limits, it is much more likely to hold up than if you very rapidly pull it to its limits. If you are pregnant, try your best to stay within the recommended healthy weight gain limits of 10-15kg.