Can a nut allergy prevent you following a plant-based diet?
Let’s get one thing straight: stretch marks are completely natural, so first ask yourself why you want to get rid of them. They often occur during pregnancy but can also arise after a period of rapid weight gain. Even packing on muscle quickly can do it. In short, they’re very, very common. ‘Stretch marks are caused by collagen and elastin in the dermis – beneath the skin’s outer layer – rupturing as the skin stretches,’ says Dr Shaaira Nasir, consultant dermatologist at Sk:n Clinics. If you want to reduce their appearance, moisturising is first on Dr Nasir’s list of ways to reduce their visibility. She suggests seeking out a moisturiser with hyaluronic acid or centella asiatica, an Asian herb, which could help lessen their progression. Retinol is an option for those who aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding, while professional cosmetic procedures, such as chemical peels or laser treatments, can also help them fade. ‘For people of colour, these procedures may be dialled down to prevent the risk of scarring or hyperpigmentation,’ she adds.
Or, you know, leave them as they are in tribute to all your amazing body has achieved over the years. You do you.