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Answer by Ashley
Submitted on 1/12/2004
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i have stretch marks as well and i'm only 15!I gained a bit of weight, then lost it, and i have them on my stomach, and side, and some on my legs. .i found that after using coco butter for a while it starts to work, i but it on a lot. since it is really concentrated you don't really need that much. I have them on my stomach, and i'm not considering myself skinny, and not fat, but i know alot of people that are bigger than me and don't have them. but i think it ad to do with the elasicilty of your skin. Try using coco butter cream, or the stick, and i've heard and noticed a bit with tanning beds they make the stretch makrs appear lighter in colour, making them fade a bit faster, plus the use of cocobutter should help. I haven't tried this yet, but i also heard that pure vitamin E oil is supposed to help aswell. hope i could help. xx ash xx

Answer by april
Submitted on 1/27/2004
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When I was 17 I went out and got a pretty little heart tattoo on my lower abdomen. When I was 20 I got pregnant with my first child and boy do I wish the tattoo artist that did my tat would have warned me before I had my work done. I don't know if you can cover stretch marks with tattoos or even if there is stuff to lighten your stretch marks but I can say that three kids later I have the most disgusting looking heart in the history of ink.I did however talk to a tattoo artist about a cover up but he said it is a very painful process and it may not hold the ink as well as un-scarred skin. Keep in mind that stretch marks are not only caused by gaining weight to quickly but also losing weight to quickly believe it or not. The skin may stretch at a slow pace while your gaining the weight but if you lose it to quickly it will leave these ugly little marks. I would not recommend getting a tattoo anywhere that stretch marks have or may occur. Also, I would not recommend a tattoo in a very noticeable place. ( I have another one on my hand) Keep them where you can hide them if YOU want to.

Answer by Christina
Submitted on 1/30/2004
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hey everyone! I just had my first child who is 5 months old. I too got those horrible stretch marks. i got them on my thighs, lower tummy, and my breasts. i used vitamin e oil the whole time during my pregnancy. when money gets tight olive oil works too. Do this everyday (rubbing does the trick)and your scars may fade. now when you have your baby, go to a dermatologist and ask them about a retin-A-a cream. this seems like the only thing that works. but you cant use it while your pregnant or breastfeeding. you must use it after where the stretch marks are still red. excercising to stretch the skin works too. its a lot of work but its worth it. you must stay positive too. you wouldn't believe how good all this works. i lost most of the marks on my boobs an most on my thighs. as for my tummy its looking better. well good luck!

Answer by Kasey
Submitted on 2/24/2004
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I've had stretch marks since I was 15 (I am now 17) and all I can say is that they have significantly faded w/age. As for Mederma, a stretch mark cream, I'm sure it works but at $30.00 a tube, it's not worth it. From personal experience, stretch marks come in multitudes and, if you read the instructions for Mederma, Mederma wants you to spread "generously" on a scar that's 9 mm! MILLIMETERS!!! It's supposed to last like 4-6 weeks and it lasted me about a week. I got stretch marks on my buttocks, which exploded. I was only 110 pds. at the time (2 years ago) and I am now 118 pds. Victoria's Secret has some really good bathing suits that can cover up stretch marks for a low price. They have hot shorts, which are like boy shorts but better. They've also got those sports-bra-looking tops for people who like to show their stomachs but not their breasts (stretch marks). I hope this helps everybody!

Answer by B.R.
Submitted on 3/9/2004
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Stretch marks are caused when the skin is stretched to the point of breaking down, similar to elastic losing its' elasticity. Losing collagen and elastin in the skin causes stretch marks, loss of tone, fine lines and wrinkles. When there is a breakdown or loss of elastin and collagen fibers or excessive stretching in the skin, the mark actually shows through to the epidermis (top layer of skin). Heredity - Some skin is genetically prone to stretch marks Skin Type - Some skin is dryer with less elasticity than others i.e. dry skin vs. oily skin Weight - rapid gain or loss Pregnancy - the weight gain associated with pregnancy Although some people are more susceptible to stretch marks, anyone can get them. Stretching of the skin during rapid weight gain or rapid growth (in young children and adolescents) is a major cause of stretch marks. The non-occurrence of stretch marks during one pregnancy does not necessarily mean stretch marks will not occur in another. Stretch marks are not gender specific - men and women are susceptible to these unsightly marks.

Answer by Justin
Submitted on 3/18/2004
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Hi there. I have stretch marks on my arms and hips. I'm only 20 so it can happen at a young age, totally normal. They definitely fade over time, but it takes a long time so hang in there. I got them from lifting weights and massive calorie intake. I'm not even close to fat but if you gain or lose muscle/fat too fast your skin will stretch or become hangy, leaving stretch marks. If you are overweight, I would recommend eating a 2,000 calorie per day diet and burning no more then 500 calories a day. Don't starve yourself or workout for 5 hours a day. If you want to gain muscle increase your diet by a little (500 calories) and workout one muscle group no less than 5 days apart. (You can exercise more than one muscle group in a workout) This will give the skin/muscles a chance to rest and recover. Also, if you keep the areas on your body that are succeptable to stretch marks moisturized, the skin will have no problem stretching without scarring. Elasticity is key. Good luck people. Take care.

Answer by Nancy
Submitted on 3/23/2004
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I had stretch marks from a growth spurt, and spent a ton of money on creams etc. I was told that the only thing that can completely remove them was laser resurfacing which was out of the question bc of the price. So, I found a site that had a formula for deep exfoliation at home. I don't want to say what the site is bc I know people will think I'm from that site(you can do a search for natural stretch mark remedy I think). Anyway, it was 15.00 for the directions on how to do it(I just paid online and there was an e-book)and the supplies cost about $20.00 from the drugstore. Anyway, I've been doing it for about a month(it takes 10 min's for each 1-2 foot area every 3 days so it was alot of work ), but my stretch marks are already about half gone. just thought I'd share this secret.

Answer by AMR
Submitted on 4/8/2004
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Hey guys, I have had stretch marks since I was about 14 years old, I'm 18 now. I had lost about 20 pounds in a 3 month period and they "erupted". I have them on the back of my knees, side of breasts, thighs, buttocks, lower waist and a really small section on my upper arm. They do fade with time. You just have to make sure that you moisturize at least everyday. But you shouldn't worry about it so much, a lot of people are "plagued" with stretch marks. If anything, try finding a lotion that is full of aloe vera and has a creamy texture and says for dry skin. Use it regularly for about 3 months and you'll see noticeable changes- though I have yet to know if they actually fully disappear. Good luck!

Answer by liam
Submitted on 4/12/2004
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i am 16 and i have marks on my tummy and my arms also my sides i hate them i wish they wasnt there i want to get rid of them! i cant go out swimming with my friends as much as i want to because they will see them i feel fine about my body but i hate the marks i have already decided to get a good tattoo artist and cover them up i dnt care if they have lumps in the tatto because of the marks atleast it will not be visible and i will be able to wear what i want and go out swimming when i want. i dnt understand y they r there realy i am very fit but they just appear but i have many friends that have them and we relate to how horrible they are i wish every the best to get rid of them thx!!!!!

Answer by JESSICA AMADOR
Submitted on 4/19/2004
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HELLO LADIES ON GENTS I AM 15 AND I HAVE THESE UGLY MARKS ON MY LOVE HANDLES AND ON THIGHS. MY BOYFRIEND GILBERT HAS THEM ALSO AND HE IS 16. SINCE WE HAVE BEEN TOGETHER WE BOTH HAVE GAINED ALLOT OF WEIGHT. WE SAY THAT WE ARE GOING TO GET ON A DIET BUT NEVER DO. I STILL LOVE HIM THE WAY HE IS AND HE LOVE ME AS WELL. I KNOW THAT WE ALL WANT TO LOOK OUR BEST BUT LIKE WHAT I AND OTHER PEOPLE SAY YOU HAVE TO LOVE YOURSELF BEFORE SOMEONE LOVES YOU. EVERYTHING WILL TERN OUT OKAY AND EVENTUALLY YOU WILL STOP THINKING ABOUT IT. LIFE IS NOT ALL ABOUT THE WAY YOU LOOK SO YOU JUST HAVE TO BE YOUR OWN PERSON AND LIVE WITH IT. I HAVE BEEN USING COCOA BUTTER AND IT HAS BEEN WORKING. I JUST HAVEN'T TOLD GILBERT BUT I AM PRETTY SURE THAT HE WOULD HAVE A GOOD TIME TRYING TO LOOK FOR THEM. J/K

Answer by Carlie
Submitted on 4/27/2004
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Hey all you girls and boys!! I am another sufferer of stretch marks. Although I have moved on from letting them ruin my life because I only get one life stretch marks or not. I believe the answer is to make young people more aware of stretch marks. I know most people hate talking about them but maybe if they were talked about more you wouldn't be so fearful and you might be able to cure them quicker. When I first got them 4 years ago I actually didn't know what they were (I was 12!!)so I just ignored them and hoped they would go away! As I got older I became more aware of what they were and found out there are creams that can help. But maybe if I had of found this out sooner I could of had a happier life four years ago!!

Answer by misscpb
Submitted on 5/8/2004
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Hello Everyone, With regards to your stretch marks. Forget about all about the expensive oils, potions and lotions. Here is some information to your skin to strengthen so that your stretch marks fade and even go away. It has been very helpful to myself. Vitamin A This is needed for maintenance and repair of skin tissue. Vitamin B Complex This aids your skin tissue to repair. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids This keeps the skin soft and increases elasticity. Vitamin E This improves circulation and reduces scarring. Either taken in oil and rubbed on the skin, mixed with another oil or Aloe Vera Silica This helps the skin stay flexible, soft and supple. Zinc This is effective in treating and preventing stretch marks. Digestive Enzymes They help heal scarring internally and externally. THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR YOU TO ALSO DO IS. Try to close your eyes each day for around 10-15 minutes and visualise your body with all the stretch marks fading, see your body healing. You can also do this looking at yourself in a mirror naked/or in the area where the marks are, tell yourself that you love yourself and your body and that you are going to heal 100%. I know this may sound silly, but believe you me it works. Good Luck, you can come through this. misscpb

Answer by Sam
Submitted on 5/8/2004
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I am 13 years old and i have stretch marks on my calf's thighs butt and inner thighs. I hate them SO much. I dont like wearing skirts or shorts last summer i didnt really have any but now i have alot. I dont like wearing bathing suits so i usually have to wear board shorts. I really need help last year i was in a 3 pants and a year later i am wearing an 8 i dont look that fat but my thighs are big and my hips are too im a little chubby though and i wish i could look like a model although i know thats not going to happen. I did hear that a coco butter lotion or aloe Vera will help them but i havent tryed it yet. I sertinly am going to try them but if anybody has any other suggestions that will help them fade allot in 2 or 3 months email me at samrox2000@hotmail.com THANKS

Answer by Georgie (male)
Submitted on 6/14/2004
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I'm now 21 and due to rapid growth, and minor weight gain in a short space of time i got these marks (nowhere near fat though!). I first noticed them on my inside thigh when i was around 14 and didn't know what they were so just left them. A few months later I saw they had spread to around the side buttocks region, but again wasn't bothered. It was only when i was 17 that i put on some more weight for weight training that i noticed 3 marks on each hip and decided to find out what they were. Alas stretch marks. However since then the ones on my inside thigh are not noticable at all now, the same as the buttocks one in daylight (however in certain light you can see where they are deeper into the skin - these are the most bothersome) The ones on my hips are also very white and not noticable in some lights. Basically i no longer have coloured stretch marks and am relatively grateful that they have basically gone and not got worse. In fact if you have ones that are level with the rest of your skin they can be masked. Anyhow good luck and all I can suggest is try and use ACNE treatments like retin A/differin on them, otherwise time will be the healer.

Answer by April
Submitted on 6/24/2004
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I am a girl and I have stretch marks AND I think stretch marks are GREAT!!!! Why? well, let me tell you why :) First, by using all those stretch mark creams/oils means your going to end up with great skin later on. Secondly, by covering up, you can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, melanoma etc. With your new and improved diet of 8 glasses of water/day (for hydration) and vitamins will improve your health and will give you gorgeous skin. Thirdly, by dressing modestly you can avoid creepy guys from trying to hit on you. In the mean time you can save your self for the right guy and save your self from STD's and unwanted pregnancies etc..You wont be called a tramp ( or anyother nasties you can think of) EVER because you would not dare dress to reveal. By not going swimming in the ocean you can avoid drowning or getting skin cancer etc. As you can see, the new lifestyle you gained because of your stretch marks is going to work for you in a positive way! I hope I have convinced you that having stretch marks can work to your advantage and improve your life as well. Especilly later on when they would have all faded away anyway :) Take care!!

Answer by itsbeensaid before
Submitted on 7/3/2004
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i understand that it's very destructive on peoples self esteem, i know because I'm very self conscious of mine. but to actually talk about committing suicide because you don't like how you look is definitely not a normal reaction. here's a bit of advice i find helpful: if you can't do anything about it, why worry? you'll only end up unhappy. in other words yes they suck, but there's no point to obsessing about it because there's nothing you can do. they do fade over time and so for now you just have to live with them. there are much worse problems then stretch marks (disease, poverty, death of a loved one) IF STRETCH MARKS ARE YOUR NUMBER ONE WORRY CONSIDER YOURSELF LUCKY! outside beauty fades but what's on the inside won't change.. sorry if i sound like an after school special but it's true.

Answer by Isabelle
Submitted on 7/4/2004
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Like most of you- I have stretch marks. I got them about 3 years ago when I grew alot (I'm 6ft tall!!). They are on my inner thighs. They don't really bohter me except when summer approaches-like now! People recomend creams but I have a skin condition which means I'm allergic to creams that have a smell so I'm screwed because of that. When I first got them I did everything to cover them up with clothes. None of my friends have them- even ones heavier than me!! What really got me down was everybody always says I should be a model because I'm so tall and I have a slim figure- if only they knew the truth. But now I'm just so fed up of them. I don't care who sees them. In fact I bought 2 bikinis today for my holidays. And I'm going to stand proud in my bikini even if I see people starring. We are all young only once so stop all this worrying and just let go and have fun! Believe me I wasted 3 years of my life covered up all year wondering what people would say or think if they saw the real me!!

Answer by Maria
Submitted on 7/21/2004
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im a 14 year old girl and i have stretch marks on my hips(big hips),thighs,acouple on my breast, and i think i have like two on my calfs. Well at first i felt horrible becuse i thoght i couldnt wear anything,but i can and i can look good. I know that instead of growing up i grew to the sides so there is still time for me to grow. and im not fat or skinnny i think im perfect how i am. i also know that my stretch marks come from my skin that is so dry really dry(and yes you could get stretch marks with dry skin). im living a great life and i wouldnt change it for anything. because im a girl and allllllll girls have stretch marks some more than others but we all do. the only help that i can give evryone that wants to do something to stop the stretch marks is doing some type of excerise. It helps a lot(for example:gym,soccer,basketball). Well i have to go talk to you later!

Answer by god made you and loves you exactly how you are!
Submitted on 8/10/2004
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I agree with April. I too have stretch marks on my stomach, biceps and a few on my thighs. I weigh 2oo but definetly don't look it. The scars started on my biceps because I was gaining alot of muscle. Just read what every body else has put. Can't you see how stupid it is to obsess over something so small and unimportant. Guys and girls get them your not the only one. Everyone is so obsessed with how they look that they can't see behind it. For a while i was really depressed and I thought it was disguisting but I've realised that I'm happy with myself and as long as I'm comfortable with me it shouldn't matter if someone vain or rude has a problem with it. Don't waste your money on junk. If it still bothers you then talk about it to some one you trust if they see you for who you are they will only tell you that, duh I like you anyways. I hear cocoa butter works but everybodys different, be yourself.

Answer by Isabelle
Submitted on 8/19/2004
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Hello again. This is Isabelle. A while back I wrote saying like everyone that I had stretch marks. But that I had started to get over them and realise that I shouldn't let them be a big deal. I also said I had just bought 2 bikinis to wear on my holidays to finally show off my body stretch marks or no stretch marks. Well I'm just back from my holidays and I'm writing to tell everyone just how fantastic I feel. Practically all the girls on my holidays had stretch marks of some description and yet none of them were covering up and worrying their holiday away over them. I never had so much fun in all my life!! I spent years stressing over my stretch marks now I feel like I'm free, as cheesy as it may sound!!!! I hope this message will make you all realise stretch marks mean nothing to anyone. I really am the happiest I've ever been after that holiday/wake up call!! Hope you all can join me!!

Answer by mika
Submitted on 9/27/2004
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yall, most guys do not care about girl's having stretch marks. i am 16 and just had a baby 3 weeks ago. my stretch marks are mostly on my belly, below my belly button. yeah im trying to fade them cuz right now they are pink and purple, but i know they will never completely go away. the way i see it is that if i guy doesnt love u with stretch marks he wont love you with out them. im the same person both ways. yeah its kinda embarrassing cuz my friends dont have them, but guess what...ONE DAY THEY WILL! nobody is perfect, everybody has something they dont want everyone to see. just be glad its stretch marks and ur not like missing an arm or something! good luck to all u girls, its ok to be self causious, but dont let ur stretch marks take over ur lives!!!

Answer by DC
Submitted on 10/5/2004
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I am 22 and have had stretch marks for as long as I can remember. There really is nothing that you can do about them unless maybe you want to pay for some sort of surgery. I have them from gaining and also loosing wait rapidly. I have them on my breast my love handles my bum and on my thighs. And i don't just have a few i am covered like there truly is not a spot on me that does not have them. I am not fat either. I weight 130 pounds and am 5 foot 7. Oh and also do not get tattoo's on your stomach I have flowers around my belly button and while I was recently pregnant I got stretch marks in the shape of my tattoo and from there they just spread. I put cream on everyday and 100% Vitamin E oil and it never helped. I have heard that they are genetic but I am not sure that I believe this as my mom had 3 kids and did not get one. So more or less girls you are going to get them and there really is nothing that you can do about it. I just cover up...oh and PS if you have a lot of stretch marks check the back of your knees and calves you would be amazed what you might find back there that you never knew you had

Answer by TGraham
Submitted on 11/15/2004
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There's something that is becoming popular concerning stretch marks and it's called Coolbeam. It's laser surgery. The laser clinic is called Epione. It's getting some good feedback. I haven't had the pleasure yet, but I definitely will. I heard it's not painful and it involves getting 4 to 5 treatments in 3-4 week increments for best results. The results I have seen are remarkable. I have done so much research on striae because before I had my son I had stretch marks and I thought they were horrible. After I had my son though, I started getting them and they were DARK and SO UGLY AND IT'S SPREADING!!! I used to wear bikinis, now I wouldn't even think to. I wish I could've just kept the stretch marks I had before my son and I wouldn't ever complain. I can't believe technology has come up with sooooo much but they haven't found anything that can make them totally disappear. I also heard topical Retin-A is good. If somebody else knows something really effective, PLEASE HELP> Thanx and good luck to everyone.

Answer by Courtney
Submitted on 12/7/2004
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Hey ladies, I'm 14, I'm very fit, I play sports and I run a lot. I never started getting stretch marks until I started working out that was in grade 7 when I finally realized I was a tank, yes I have them still but not a bad as they were because I keep my physical activities first. Well all I can say is, don't be ashamed about your body, because a lot of girls have it, it doesn't matter how big or small you are, it can be from getting muscle too fast and your skin isn't ready for that but also it maybe because you're not eating very healthy try to cut out the cookies and chips, and fatty foods from fast food joints also drink lots of water and eat veggies and fruits. another thing that is good for snacking on that is REALLY healthy for you is Super Mix I think you can get it at any food stores, its got, peanuts, raisins, sunflower seeds, papaya, pineapple, pumpkin seeds, and almonds... yeah I know what some of you ladies are thinking "EW GROSS!!" thats exactly what I thought because I absolutely HATED raisins, but this is really good stuff to snack on. try running, doing sit ups, push ups, lunges, getting a work out ball and doing sit ups, bridges and other good work outs like that, it really helped me bring my self esteem back. i lost 30 pounds in grade 7 and 8 from just running once a week and doing work outs, and now I'm only in grade 9, i went from size 11 and 13 down to a size 7 and 9 and let me tell u... IT FEELS GREAT!! so good luck to every one and be proud to be a women!!!

Answer by Erika
Submitted on 1/18/2005
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Hello I'm 24 with a 20 month-old baby and i have had stretch marks for as long as i can remember. I gained a lot of weight during my pregnancy (about 30 pounds) and lost all of it again. My stretch marks are much worse since I have lost weight than before. I work out 4 days a week for an hour 35 minutes of cardio, and 25 minutes of weights, and i drink lots of water. The point that I am trying to make is that no matter how much you exercise, or massage cream into your problems areas, they will never completely go away. For all you young ladies out there trying to catch a boyfriend I have a secret...men really do not care. I promise when they are looking at you, they are not trying to find your stretch-marks!

Answer by Lauren
Submitted on 1/20/2005
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I'm a 15 year old female and I've had stretch marks since I was in 6th grade. I've got them on my inner thighs, love handles, breasts and lower back. The most effective thing you can try is cocoa butter, because at around $5 a bottle it does the same thing all of those other extremely costly creams claim to do, lighten them. There is no cream that can get rid of them completely. My best advice to everyone is just don't worry about it. As much as you may hate them, you have to face it that most people do have them. And despite popular belief stretch marks don't just happen to fat people. So, those of you who are confused as to why you have them because you aren't fat.. you don't have to be fat to get them. Sometimes when our body grows at a rapid pace our skin cant quite keep up. And the top layer tears, causing stretch marks. They're a very natural and normal thing. Life is too short to worry about things like stretch marks, for the most part you cant control whether you get them or not so don't lose any sleep over it.

Answer by cookie
Submitted on 2/20/2005
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i am 16 in two months i will be 17 before i weighed 115 my height is 5'1 now i am 136 and 5'1 i got on the birth control shot a while ago i had stretch marks on my booty and my upper thighs and under my knee they are light brown and i am not dark brown but brown non the less NOW i have RED STRETCH MARKS on the inside of my thigh and both side of my hips i would like to try barmon cream for 20.00 total 18.00 without shipping and handling. stretch marks are embarresing and no one can tell me that people don't make fun of you or say how disgusting that looks because they always will i want them to fade back to lighter complection like my other ones i feel ugly with dark red i don't even want to buy a bathing suit that how none of these people are vain i feel fugly when i look at my legs i used to proud of my body i think thick is beutiful i felt so cocky with a big booty and legs not because i was fat but now look at me they go all the way down my inside of my thigh this summer i will get in the water so fast no one will notice

Answer by kayla
Submitted on 3/4/2005
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DON'T USE VITA-K! I used it for mine and I'll give you a couple of reasons not to: 1. It doesn't work 2. It costs money 3. You can't ever get rid of stretch marks anyway. I am 16 now and have had stretch marks since I was 10. I have them everywhere, the back of my knees, thighs, lower abdomen, breasts, upper arms, shoulders and you know what? THEY ARE NOT THAT BAD! Sure, you feel selfconcious about them, but think about it, I bet at least 60% of the population has them in some shape or form. Yeah, shallow guys who don't care about anything but your body and and sex will care about them, but who wants a guy like that anyway? Find someone who doesn't care about them because they will be there forever, though they will fade with time. If someone sees them it is not the end of the world, and for those girls who are afraid that their moms will find out, maybe your mom should show you her stretch marks because if she had you, she probably has them too.

Answer by be happy! :)
Submitted on 3/7/2005
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hey all of you people reading this! i have strech marks on my inner thighs and i hate them! i was embarresed about them and didn't want to tell anyone. but i really needed something to help them! so i had to tell my mom. and i'm so glad that i did now! because she has helped a bunch! she's looking for things to cure it too! now i just started this about two days ago but u buy those little vitamin E capsules, and squeeze them onto the scars and that is seeming to work already! and i am drinking lots more water! also i heard that aloe works too! i was really depressed about them too until i read all of ur guy's complaint thingys! and now i know i am not the only one and please don't kill ur self's over some scars! cause that would be really sad! it's not worth it just love you for you! and some day you'll find a man/woman who will love you for you too! because there are "lots of fishes in the sea" and one of them will just be glad to love every bit of you-scars and all! so stop crying! because i did that, but now i am not because i am just happy i even have a body! and don't think ur fat just because you have strech marks because i am not fat and i have them too so just cheer up!!! :) i sure hope i helped someone! seeya!

Answer by Sade
Submitted on 3/23/2005
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i have had stretch marks for the past 5 years. i am 19 now. at first i was like many of you worrying bout them all of the time. Worrying in case my friends saw them going on holiday, thinking i was the only person to have them. the truth is over 60% of the population have them. And that was coming from a skin specialist I have many on my breasts, hips, backs of my knees, butt and loads on my thighs. i much as i still resent them they have faded a lot to the extent you can only really notice them in certain lights. I have always worn bikinis when i go on holiday no matter how bad they look. It does worry me that people mite be looking but the truth is people are feeling exactly the same way bout there own body's to be worrying bout yours. I still wear skirts when i go out. i wouldnt stop just because of stretch marks. i still get guys coming up to me chatting me up and it does worry me bout my body but at the end of the days 8/10 of your mates will be in the same position as you are in now. Hope my experiences have helped some of you to feel better bout yourselves. x

Answer by ash
Submitted on 3/29/2005
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i'm 17 and I just had a baby in jan 2005 and i gained about 40 lbs while pregant and still have about 15 to go.. i have stretch marks on my sides, a little uinder my belly button, a ton on my theighs and some on my inner lower legs.. which sucks.. i cant even wear capris with out them showing and now spring and summer are coming and i dont even want to go swimming with my baby or go to the water park like i used to .. none of my girl friends have stretch marks..so i feel out of place.. i neever used to care what people thought,... but these marks are horrible.. i want to get them cut out (from my skin) because i cant stand them.. i have to wear a tank top tucked into my pants so in case my shirt goes up u cant see them.. i dont want to live like this... but i have to .. i wish all us girls with stretch makrs could get together and go to some water park and not care what every one said becuase we were all together.. nothings been really working but i 'll keep trying i guess.. ash .. ny

Answer by audibaby
Submitted on 3/30/2005
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I am an 18 year old girl and when I was 16 I was in a near fatal car accident. I had broken my femur and had to have emergency surgery, the doctor had to open up my hip and use a surgical spreader. The spreader pretty much is a spacer that they use to keep an area open for an extended amount of time. After surgery I didn't notice anything but a deep black bruise. After the bruise faded and the pain medication was out of my system I had noticed large white stripes on the side of my butt. Seeing that I had perfect skin before, not a blemish to be found to having at least one foot of scars from surgery and other gouges from my accident, I realized that no matter what I am still the same person, and my scars wont fade and I am not proud to wear them. But I know that my stretch marks should hold me back from anything, if I want to wear a low cut swim suit... then I will. Don't worry about your stretch marks!!! Its just skin!!

Answer by On dA rEaL
Submitted on 5/22/2005
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hey so i been readin all yallz commentz nd stuff nd today i was just ina really bad mood nd lettin the tiniest thingz bother me shoot kno evry grl be goin thru that at one tyme o another but i thot i was "the onli one out there" wit this prollum well not the onli one but at my age..which is stupid cuz we all think that stuff oo we the onli one wit this o that nd it aint neva tru..the world 2 damn small fa onli 1 person ta have a prollum..specially this one..i got em on mah hipz nd mah lower bac..it botherz me sumtymez mo den otherz buh fa real you gotta kno therez more ta you then that lyk ya goOd featurez w/e they may be nd if a guy dun lyk it o sum1 else -oo dun even get me started- lOrd knoz they got sum imperfectionz 2 i gotta say yallz commentz helped me tho fa real cuz i wasnt ina goOd mood..but fa the people sayin they gunn go nd kill theyselfz naa it aint even worth it fa real ova sum markz..why u juz gunn concentrate on those thingz nd fa get everythin else goOd you have ta offer nd whaz goin fa u now nd in the future i dun get that...ill try this stuff that you guys have recomended..mite be a lil late fa me even tho im rly young cuz dey more silvery whyte..who knoz but im not gunn let it ruin my life cuz 2 be honest i got game even wit these thingz not lyk ne1z seen them but not lyk they go round sayin oo damn i hope she aint got stretch markz u eitha wanna get wit me o be mah frend fa me nd not ova those damn markz that i personally cant even control..you can onli control so damn much the rest is God nd nature nd herrity so jus think high of yourself and keep up wit urself put on sum make up nd perfume nd all that stuff a grl LoVeSz ta do nd your strait cant no1 look at u lookin the best you can and be lyk uh oh u got stretch markz..but fa real juz think bout wha i sed aight bez of luCk

Answer by cemenike
Submitted on 5/23/2005
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Hello every one I have had stretch marks since I was 15 on my breast, calves, hips, and butt. What I used to help fade my marks was a mixture olive oil and Castor oil with a heating pad to help penetrate the oil into the deeper layers of the skin. It took about five months to fade them, but you must be persistent, every morning and every nigh, leave the heating pad for 20-30 minutes each time on a medium setting. Also, you should take a multivitamin twice a day, I recommend prenatal vitamins. Also, you should ex foliate the area lightly with a pumice stone. Drink plenty of h20, stay out of the sun. But most importantly you have to learn to love yourself, because if you don't who will. Always keep your skin most. Remember that this won't make them totally disappear, but it will make them match your skin tone and it will improve the texture of the stretch marks. I hope this advice will help someone :}

Answer by bam bam
Submitted on 6/11/2005
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EVERY ONE IM 17 NEARLY 18 I GOT STRECTHMARKS WHEN I WAS 16, DONT BE EMBARASSED TO TELL YOUR MUM I THINK THEIR BE RELIEVED THATS ALL IT IS ! EVERY GIRL HAS STRECTMARKS AND IF THEY SAY THEY HAVENT THEY ARE LYIN ! LADS CAN HAVE THEM TOO, YOUR NOT FAT IT YOUR HAVE THEM JUST GROWING MY AUNTIES A NURSE AND SAYS 99.9% OF STRECTHMARKS ARE CAUSED FROM ADOLESCENT GROWING BY LOOSING WEIGHT NOT GAINING ,, COCOA BUTTER IS CRAP! SO IT THE EXPENSIVE ONES IVE TRYED THEM THE ONLY ONE THAT WORKS IS BIO_OIL IN AN ORANGE AND WHITE BOX YOU CAN GET THEM FROM CHEMIST AND THEY ARE FOR A NUMBER OF THING SO YOU WONT BE EMBARRASSED JUST SAY IT FOR A SCAR ON YOUR KEG OR SOMETHING ITS NOT THAT CHEAP BUT LASTS AND REALLY WORKS!!!1 HOPE THAST HELPED :p

Answer by ShyCherise
Submitted on 6/24/2005
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Hey i'm17 and i got stretch marks when i was around 10 years old (i started developing really early). I have stretch marks on my inner thighs, my bum, my breast and on the entire area behind my knees since i am a black girl and i am darker skinned the marks are really noticeable. I have never been fat a day in my life in fact my body to some is perfect i am 5'7 135lbs. In the last 7 years i have worn a skirt that didnt come to my ankles in public a total of (never shorts) 1 time. I hate my body to the umpth degree. These stretch marks have ruined my life and I will do ANYTHING to make them go away please can someone send me some thing that has worked for them PLEASE(QTReese06@aol.com)

Answer by candygirl
Submitted on 6/27/2005
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well im now 20 and i've had stretch marks since i was 14 and they are starting to fade i started to exercise and eat healthy and use cocoa butter. it takes more than creams for these marks to go away you have to take care of your body healthwise also i mean you cant slap on some creama and expect your probems to go away. i've read some people saying that your the only ones that cant see past your scars excuse me but people do stare when they see them people aren't nice i mean come on now we all know that. i spent so much time hiding because of the times i did't i got horrible reactions from people. so you people calling us vain are the stupid ones because people aren't kind to seeing things like that and stare and make you umcomfortable. i mean not everyone is like that but yea that one time you get that reaction from someone is enough believe me. also you have o realize it's not the end of the world look at all these ppl on here posting about this we're not alone suffering with stretch marks and you dont have to be fat to have them also. i have a slim figure im 135 and 5'10 and i have them all over. in the end you got to heal on the inside if your self esteem is low. my advice again is exercise, eat healthy and keeo your skin mosturized it's going to take time. there are times when i break down because i hate these things but you got work to get rid of them, they may not go away 100% but at least they wont be as visible. just don't give up. simple.

Answer by kris
Submitted on 6/29/2005
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hey guys!! listen to this :).... stretch marks aren't all that bad...i have had them for two or three years and trust me with time they fade and it looks almost like they were never there!!!!! i mean yea they don't look great, but who cares? there are sooooo many other things to worry about. right? so for EVERYONE out there who has gotten stretch marks, i know how it is, its NOT easy but as i thought about it a little more and read all about what you guys had to say it didn't seem quite as horrible as i had thought it to be. so many people have them why should i think that mine are any different?? YOU HELPED ME THINK OF ALL THIS!! thank you!!:) ;) oh and if you want advise i have a little..... live your life the way you want and wear the things you like, stretch marks should never stop ANYONE from doing things that they have fun doing!!! oh and COCOA BUTTER DOES HELP!! i haven't been using it all that long but its been working!;) talk to ya later!!

Answer by Haven
Submitted on 7/21/2005
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I first developed stretch marks when I was 14 because I grew 7 1/2 inches in one year! I am now 25 years old and they are completely gone. I have a few tiny ones developing on my tummy and am not really certain why. I am very confident in the way I look ( I am 5'2 and 103 lbs) and have been the same weight for 11 years. Stretch marks fade with time and I no longer care that the silvery ones are there. I also have great skin choked with collagen and elastin but my doctor said it was because of my growth spurt and not because I had weakened skin that I developed the marks. Take good care of yourself and take pride in your youth because it soon fades and you'll have bigger problems on your hands. And yes, I wear bikinis, tanks, lowriders, etc. and no guy has ever said a word!!!

Answer by MeToo
Submitted on 7/28/2005
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Hello :) I have interesting information for you all, but not necessarily good news. Years ago I saw a medical spot on TV news that said researchers think stretch marks are closely linked to hormones. That's all they said - no further details. That makes total sense because even skinny people get them. However, many people never get them. I guess some of us are just cursed by the wrong level of whatever hormones cause one to be more prone to stretch marks. Of course, the skin does get the marks during stretching. However, if they were simply caused by stretching of the skin, everyone would have them (growth spurts, etc). Plenty of very heavy people, bodybuilders, and mothers have flawless skin. My sister is one of the lucky ones - weight fluctuations, and one child but no marks, not one! I am 41 yrs old and have had stretch marks on my thighs, hips, breasts, buttocks, and a few under my arms since puberty. During pregnancy I got them on my lower stomach. I don't believe dry skin has anything to do with it as I have always had oily skin and have no wrinkles, though I'm 41 yrs old and don't use lotions, oils or creams. Neither have I suffered from dry, cracked, or itchy skin on other parts of my body, though I don't use creams there, either. My son has stretch marks from his ankles to his hips, all sides of his legs. He's very thin, but above height for his age. His stretch marks appeared during puberty, a couple of years ago. They were red, and very prominent. He was very worried about the marks, but I assured him they'd fade, and being a guy, he could have leg hair to hide them. Well, two years later, there isn't much to hide. His marks have faded so much that you have to look very closely to see them. Mine are still noticeable, but I don't believe there's anything that can truly get rid of them (I hope I'm wrong!). Though, thankfully, time has faded and softened them a great deal. I use to try all the creams and potions (including pure cocoa butter, castor oil, and Vit.E ). I would use a product religiously for many months but nothing helped. I think it often seems to help but, in reality, the marks are simply fading on their own. When I was slimmer and younger, despite the marks, I wore bikinis, mini skirts, tank tops, etc. Guys never seemed turned off at all. As a matter of fact, I was very popular, and often complimented. I was never low on dates (and no, I wasn't a tart!:) It's my personal opinion, and experience that kind, intelligent people won't judge you, or be turned off based on something you have no control over*. That's like avoiding, or making fun of someone because he/she has a handicap - it doesn't make sense! The rest who can't handle anything less that perfection, well, I've never missed them. Sure, I'd love a potion or pill to rid me of these marks, but I'd much rather have a cure for my severe back injury, or a plan that would feed the world's hungry, or heal the planet. In the grand scheme of things, I've learned to only be bugged a little by the stretch marks, and to save my deep emotions for bigger issues. I truly feel for you all, and wish you happiness (and a cure!). Sincerely, MeToo

Answer by andy(hate stretch marks)
Submitted on 7/30/2005
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Hey im 14 coming up 15 soon and im a male and i have had stretch marks since 12 there horrible i dont even like to go out the house in a t-shirt and shorts! also wen im at school and its P:E day and were going to the swimming baths i get self-conchous so i nick off school(pretend im goin to me mam n dad but go some where else) and there horrible there on my stomach, calvs and probs every where else. at first they were red but since i started growing and had a bit of family troubles and istarted getting chubby they have gone silver! please help me out i will spend as much as i can on anything that can get them away also i have tried to tel me mam but its embarrasing to tell her i dont want any 1 to know about this wot shud i do. also i got a few questions: 1. if i leave them to go away on there own how long will they take. 2.if i loose weight too fast will they come back even more and reder? any 1 hu can help me plzz do i will be totally greatfull

Answer by Tracy
Submitted on 9/9/2005
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I am 30 years old with 3 children. I gained alot of weight with my first pregnancy at 17 and also gained alot of stretch marks. You cannot get rid of stretch marks with anything but, you can help to minimize their appearance. A stretch mark is a scar and like scars they can fade but never disappear. I use a cream containing aloe vera and dead sea salt and rub it on the affected parts (lots of them) in a circular motion for around a minute. I do this every day and have been doing it for over a year and my stretch marks are barely noticeable compared to before. I know its difficult to get hold of dead sea products so have included a link to an on line shop where I get mine from. I have tried many things over the years and this stuff is the most effective. By the way, I just got myself a tattoo on my lower back and use the same cream on it and its healing beautifully. Here is the link http://www.deadseacosmetics.co.uk Good luck xx.

Answer by an9el_sarah
Submitted on 9/10/2005
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hey, I am 16, almost 17 and have stretch marks on my thighs and love handles. I have had them since I eas about 14. The best advice I can give everyone is to moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. I have always had little hips, so as soon as I noticed I was getting stretch marks on my thighs I started moisturising several times a day, when possible. Having had them for three years almost I have learned to live with them. Unfortunately I don't have the money to go out and buy those exspensive creams, and even if I did I wouldn't have a lot of time to because mine fade very quickly. Every now and then I get upset about it - which is natural. I know I can't wear a bikini again, as they are indented - but I just think why sit around and get yourself all angry about something that will be there for the rest of your life (unless there is a dramatic change in technology) I know it sucks, but like everyone else has been saying use olive oil or vitamin e. My mum has had four children and her stomach, hips and thighs are just covered in them. Her tummy was so stretched after her first child that it hangs.

Answer by La Shanda S. Feaster
Submitted on 11/17/2005
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I am 18 years old and I have just completed high school in May 2005.I still love myself for who I am.I feel that everybody gone have problems anyway.I have stretch marks, but I know that the lord is going to remove my stretch marks.You just have to believe in the lord and believe that it will go away.I have it on my stomach.I got it when I had my first child and now I am trying to remove it.I use shea Butter and Coca-butter and it helps a lot.It is going away.I am pregnant again and I am just starting it and it is working already.I have had my stretch marks for about three years. That's one thing I am not ashame because I love my body. I still put on two pieces tops and go swimming, but I have the top part covering my stomach,but my back still shows. All you have to do is believe in yourself that it can go away because mines is really going away and I am happy. Thank You for taking the time and reading.I hope that you use my advise and try it.

Answer by Jo
Submitted on 12/5/2005
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I'm 16 years old, I've red all of your questions and answers, and my opinion on it all since I have practically my whole body is a stretch mark, and im like all of you, im not too skinny or too overweight, im in the middle, im 5'7- 5'8 and I weigh 155lbs (yes its alot, but you should see me). Anyhoo, my stepdad looked in the internet on stretch marks and he found out that stretch marks can be caused my depression, stress, contraceptive pills and have lost or gained pounds too fast. I have stretch marks on my breasts, on my inner thighs, I have stretch marks all below my breasts. I've used contraceptive pills, I've been through depression and stressed (home problems), and I think I've gained alot of pounds too fast, at 14 I was around 130lbs, then went from there to 155lbs, but I am fairly tall. My opinion (finally! :-P) I think every woman, every teen goes through things like this. Surely we are all made differently so we might have more or less stretch marks than others. For what men might thing, personaly, they should just accept us as we are. Its normal for these things to occur, if they cant be reasonable and mature enough to handle it, they are just plain dumb. I think they should cut us some slack.

Answer by Hayley
Submitted on 12/22/2005
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hi im 14 and i have had these things for about 3 or 4 years...i really need help, i am already really self-conscious because my skin is EXTREMELY fair, and i am already really shy and modest. i never ever wear shorts or bathing suits or anything in front of other people...i get really sick of hearing "people should love you for who you are" because if i followed that rule, nobody would love me, welcome to america. so please help me, im going on vacation again in june, and i really dont want to spend another vacation wearing jeans and t-shirts...its not that im fat, i weigh 138 lbs and im 5'8...please please help me, my self-esteem is so low! email me at brilliant_brunette_69@hotmail.com

Answer by violet
Submitted on 12/29/2005
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people please dont kill yourselves over these little marks or think that u cannot find love--not true, i have them and my significant other does not really notice and thinks i should pose in playboy...and he should know bc he models. i have little ones from previous weight gain...i tried creams, but they didnt work. i had laser work a few yrs back and that worked to even out the marks to ur skin level (plumps them up) and they do not wrinkle and the results are permanent. i had 10 sessions--more than the recommended 3-5 (i stopped when i didnt notice a difference). the only downside is the cost and that the results take a few months and improve w/ time. but the whiteness will remain. if you have a light complexion, this wont really matter. if you have dark skin, you can get the marks tattoed by a cosmetic tatoo artist or medical tatooist to match your skin afterwards. Also if they are on ur breasts alot, another solution is to get boob implants if you're old enough. a friend of mine got implants after her baby and the marks are hardly noticeable (to get an idea of how this would look on u, stretch the skin on ur boobs). hang in there, and if you feel suicidal, please go see a shrink and get help bc improving these marks takes time and patience (they can be improved alot to where they are very hard to notice but i dont think they can be completely removed). and it will be longer for some than others bc of the cost involved. a reasonable diet and exercise also has helped me. hope this helps and if a guy/girl wont talk talk to you bc of these marks, screw them they are not worth ur time. AnD IF they appear w/out a weight change and they continue to appear for no apparent reason, there might be a medical cause, so pls get your health checked out by a doc. hope this helps.

Answer by caitlin
Submitted on 1/5/2006
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I'm 15 and i have had stretch marks for about 3-4 years. I\m 5"8 and 132 pounds however i recently lost a lot of weight. at around the age of 13 i suddenly started to grow at a rapid pace and with my growth spurt i put on around 40 pounds. i didn't understand why i was putting on so much weight and so rapidly but i later found out i have a genetic condition. with my added pounds came unwanted stretch marks and i have them all over back, on my hips, on my stomach, on my arms and (due to my growth spurt) on my shoulders. i found that using cocoa butter really helps but you have to be consistent with the application. at first i was very upset about my body and i would say i was almost disgusted, but i learnt to accept the way i look and realized that stretch marks are totally normal and having stretch marks is not the end of the world, there are far more important things to be worrying about!

Answer by princess
Submitted on 1/15/2006
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I also am like all of you stretch mark suffer-ers.Im only 14, it sucks big time, i could wear a bikini as i have a good body shape, but i cant as i have ugly stretched skin. I have them on my boobs and bum and a few on my thighs. My mum also has some so i guess i've got her skin, i believe genetics play a part. My friend also had them on her boobs she said she used something called "Top to Toe" apparently it worked really well, though im yet to try it i hear it goes for $90 a pop. I use coco butter now, and bio oil, bio oil is suposed to be really good, but i find its not moisturising enough and just sits on the skin and doesnt absorb. Any other products u guys know of that work? I did have the whole i hate my body i hate these disgusting marks attitude, but hey who's gona see my bum anyway??? I can stil wear short shorts and look good. I hate when people say im pretty or guys say im hot, coz they dont see the marks and ugly parts of me, sometimes im worried about gettin with guys and if they'll think less of me, but i mean it usually happens at night so they dont see them anyway. What they cant see wont hurt them...

Answer by miss
Submitted on 1/28/2006
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whatever you do , dont use firming cream if you see that your getting s. marks .. i have them everyone does it part of life , just like a lot of other things we dont liike , it has nothing to do with being fat or thin..its the Elaticity in the skin .. dont buy the creams , they DO HELP , but DONT BUY THEM BC ill garuntee you that CoCo butter will work just ask well if not better ,due to the all natural indregiants. Do some research and find out what FOODS help give you skin elaticity , not only do u need to treat your problems from a topical treament , but also with what you can actualy eat and drink to help you ... also ... dont scratch or try to cut them off , some girls have actually tried that, and its very risky and will not help anything but make scars appear, true if you treat while your s marks are still pinkish red they WILL fade almost all the way. What you need to do is tan ,tan ,tan, they will become a lighter color but after tan and tan gain they we eventually even up (somewhat). Hope this helped and remember and realize evvveeerryyone has problems like this, and think about the problem's you dont have.

Answer by juggernaut
Submitted on 3/1/2006
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Hey, I've had stretch marks on most of my body since I was 11, before I even knew what a stretch mark was. I've never been able to wear a bathing suit, short-sleeved shirts, shorts, etc. There are 300-pound people who don't have them but I do. Boy that sucks! The funny thing is I wish I had read this board a lot sooner because it has made me feel a lot better. I had no idea there were so many people with them who felt as desperate as I once did. Don't despair though. I'm 40-something now. There are plenty of joys to be had in life with your clothes on, and even without because someone who really loves you won't care about them. Yes, you can get a boyfriend/girlfriend even with your stretch marks. A lot of skinny people have them too!

Answer by evvea
Submitted on 3/26/2006
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hey I have had stretch marks on my butt since i was 15. They didn't bother me ever because no one ever notices them. I have never heard a word about them. But the real problem started 2 years ago. I got more on my hips. They are so awful!!! People try to tell me that they're not that bad, and try to cheer me up by saying that they're barely noticeable - but I know they're there!!! It's awful I'm not overweight or anything and most certainly i don't have it after my parents cause my mom weighs over 200 pounds and has none!!! how unfair!!! What i've been trying is a hell of a lot of very expensive creams, massaging under the shower for a couple of minutes, taking vitamin E. I don't know if it's working, but I feel better that at least I'm trying. But there are days when I really would like to kill myself... i know it's stupid, but when you have a perfect body and then something like this happens... (well not perfect, but at least other things could be removed!) I have learned that believing that something will go away is most important.

Answer by sweetness
Submitted on 4/2/2006
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I've been using Strivectin-SD, and I have to admit, it's very expensive(about 135$ a bottle for about 4-6 weeks depending on where you get it from) but it's been working really well. You start seeing results in about 2 weeks after you start using it, and studies show that about 93% of the people who tried it saw a reduction in size, color, depth, etc. in their stretch marks in 28 days. My mom's a nurse who has really bad stretch marks and she says that it's hereditary. Just don't give up hope, and know that you're not the only one with stretch marks!:)(And if you're worried about boys not liking you or whatever, i have lots of them and I get asked out on a regular basis.)

Answer by stretch marks suck
Submitted on 4/24/2006
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stretch marks sure did a KO on my self-esteem. now I have loose skin in every place that I have them on top of the marks themselves. I have been going to the gym, running, trying everything. so now it's not just the marks, but the loose skin gut, thighs, groin and even inflated butt from it that is all so disgusting. i've been trying to date and I think it was one major factor in why i got dumped within two weeks. don't tell me it doesn't matter when you have to compete against people with normal, flat stomachs and normal shaped bodies. people are more shallow then then want to admit: i'm sorry. if I hadn't gotten fat and gotten those marks on a 25 lb weight gain in a month six years ago, my life would be much easier now. now i'm working out and near my ideal weight, but you'd never know it looking at my bulge down there. too bad I don't have the cash for a tummy tuck and it's probably too late for lazer to work on the scars.

Answer by Zee
Submitted on 5/4/2006
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hey guys. ive read all your comments and i can sympathise and i know exactly how you feel becoz i have stretchmarks everywhere and i cant seemed to feel comfortable exposing any part of my body that how bad it is, especially the stretchmarks on my arms and its really difficult finding summer clothes and worrying about stretchmarks too. And ive tried several creams and believe me it is a waste of tym and money. i was wondering though that instead of covering stretchmarks with coloured tatoos cant we cover them with skin coloured tatoos so they blend in with the rest of the skin colour. i mean has anyone tried this? or does anyone here know of know of any surgical procedure to get rid of stretchmarks on the arms? i mean ive heard of microdemobrasion and skin peeling but i would like to know what is most effective for white stretchmarks because they appear to be the most difficult to remove. plz plz anyone if you have any suggestions or ideas email me at Zest4u@hotmail.co.uk Thank you. XxX

Answer by Oxymoron
Submitted on 5/6/2006
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I'm 22. I used to be addicted to a prescription drug for ADD called Adderall. It is an amphetamine... actually, I mix of a bunch of different kinds of amphetamines (why they started giving this to children like me, I will never understand). It can be more addictive than cocaine. When I came home from college one year, I went into outpatient rehab therapy. I quit it cold turkey. I gained weight immediately. I gained about 15 pounds in the first month. I ended up gaining about 30 pounds in the end. I still wasn't "fat." Most of my friends thought I was too thin before (which I was) and that I looked healthier. But all of a sudden, towards the end of that period of weight gain, I noticed these horrible stretch marks developing on my inner thighs. They were and are still red and raised and their shape is spiderweb-ish. They don't look like the stretch marks I've gotten anywhere else at other times (breasts, butt, old ones on my thighs, etc). They cover almost my entire inner thigh and then started to spread onto my calves. They look so unusual and bad that many people I talked to said they didn't think they were stretch marks and that I should go to the doctor. But at this point, I'm pretty sure they are. It's been months and they're still red and raised. And they cover such a big surface area that spreading scar remover cream is almost impossible! I have lost 20 pounds by now. It's May, I can't wear shorts and I am paranoid about letting any guy see me naked in bright light. Also, some days, the marks seem redder and more obvious than other days. I don't know what to think about them. But they're horrible looking!

Answer by amina
Submitted on 7/2/2006
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I have very low self confidence. And after my pregnancy three months ago I have stretch marks on my upper thighs, the backs of my legs and lower abdomen bellow the belly button. I can't stand it. I supposed to go to the lake tomorrow and I can't stand the opportunity of showing them off to the public in a swim suit. I was a size 0 before the pregnancy so my skin wasn't ready for the transformation into pregnancy. now I'm a size 5 allot slimmer then the size 10 I was when pregnant and they're still haunting me.I don't know what to think. People say not worry about it, look at them as your battle scars of being a woman and having a healthy child but that still doesn'tmake me confident in front of a mirror.

Answer by Reen
Submitted on 7/5/2006
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Iv had stretch marks since i can remember, im 19 now. I think dey started when i was like 11 @ da time i took no notice. Iv got a jlo style bum and i got dem wen it started growing @ a considerable rate, i also got dem wen my chest started growing from me being flat chested. U dont jus get stretch marks from being fat, u get dem bcos ur body is growing faster than ur skin can stretch. Most women know wat ur going thru so they wont scorn u n i dnt think a lot of men even notice (i no all the guy iv been wit neve complained). Im not goin 2 lie 2 u ladies dey will neva go (fully), i no from experience. Der was a time wen i tried everything possible 2 get rid of dem n it never worked so i learned 2 xcpt dem i now actually quiet like dem cos dey r on plaeces on my body that people consider 2 b womenly. For those of u who are stressin about dem u sud stop. Learn 2 xcpt dem its part of da growing process n becoming a woman.

Answer by Me
Submitted on 7/8/2006
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Yes yes I have stretch marks too, just like the rest of you. I am 5'2" and 90 pounds. I don't know why but it seems like the rest of the population has some too. Don't go try and starve yourselves or anything cause that will just make them worse, and of coarse more problems down the line. The best thing I think is to just make sure you eat healthy and exercise. I just had summer gym and lost 5 pounds, I think that's why most people get them, not because they GAIN weight but because they are LOSING it. It's like a rubber band coming back together. Sure it will take some time to disappear, maybe never, but it doesn't really matter. It's just like shaving or acne, everyone has it, just don't let it change you.

Answer by guyguy
Submitted on 7/14/2006
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yeh well i'm a guy and i got them too. Everybody can get them and there isnt anything you can do really. I started getting them on my chest and on the underside of my upper arms. This is because i began to lift a lot of weights and stretched my skin with the growth of new muscles. Stretch marks come when you grow quickly (i.e. becoming fat or growth spurts). If you are aware that you will start to grow quicky (such as pregnancy) start applying vitamin E or cocobutter to the areas of skin that will become stretched. This will improve the skins elasticity and reduce the likelihood of you getting stretch marks. Most often though, people do not realise they will get stretch marks and so it is to late once the begin to appear. There is not much you can do at this time, you can either wait for them to fade (they will become a silvery colour and will still be slightly visible) OR you can get lazer surgery (this prematurely fades them so you will still be able to slightly see them). Once you get stretch marks be very careful about making them worse. I continued to work out and the stretch marks spread rapidly. In this regard, your skin is like a laminated piece of paper or plastic coated money (as we have here in australia). When they are whole they are hard to rip or break but once you get a little nic in them they split easily. One last thing guys dont really care about strech marks anyway, and half those female models probably have stretch marks too but you cant see them after they have been computerised. My last gf had strech marks.. i didnt care

Answer by Ash
Submitted on 7/16/2006
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hey i'm16 i'm5'6 and way like 215 i dont look tht big my friends grandma said i looked like i wayed like 160 or sumin. anyways i'vehad stretch marks for a long time and i forget i have em sumtimes, i'vebeen with this guy for 8 months and he's 15, i told him about em and he told me he didnt care and there just silly scares, so i guess it shouldnt matter if u have stretch marks, if a guy doesnt like u cause u have them lose him cause he aint worth it!!! i used to kinda freak out bout em but no i dont see any point cause my boyfriend loves me for who i am! its not like i have one or two i have them everywhere and on my tummy and upper arms on my back and other places so just get over it!!

Answer by cris
Submitted on 8/2/2006
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i just wanna say i just turned 17 yrs old i spent forever saying i was fat when i wasn't and i wasted my skinny days away i am only 5/2 i way 150 freaking pounds now:( I'm now in a size 9-11 pants and its terrible i dont no how to except it i was 115 ibs be4 and i was well in a size 5 and 3 in pants i have a b/f of 2 years who says he loves me no matter what but it hurts to look in the mirror an see these bright pink stretch marks on my tummy Ive gained at least 30 pounds in the past 5 months and i just wanna know am i to late am i stuck with these marks 4 ever!!!!!!!!!!!! i no stretch marks don't hurt or ne thing they just can look painfull but when i look in the mirror i just have a sharp pain through my body im so ashamed of myself! what do i do?? im to scared to waste my money on creams and during the day i do 4 get about my scars but at night or when i change i cant help but to see them their i cant stand 4 my b/f of to years to see my tummy ne more it sux and hes annoyed by my lack of selfEsteam!! plz help somebody i really need help!: if u can help email me at sliced_memorys_new_beggings916@hotmail.com

Answer by Jim
Submitted on 8/4/2006
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I'm 17, almost 18, and ive been weightlifting for about 2 and a half years now. because of this, and what i think is bad genetics, i have bad stretch marks all down my biceps, on my upper back, my shoulders, armpits, and even a few little ones on my knee joints.(a lot have faded, but r still kinda noticeable) theyve been present for about 6 months now, and trust me ivwe tried it all. creams do nothing but waste ur money, ask most doctors, they only rub onto the surface of ur skin, not deep down where the tearing occurs. (even retin-A is a scam) im currently using a moisturizer to prevent getting more because im not allowing myself 2 quit working out because of these ugly ass things. (not sure if thats helping) im currently undergoing laser treatment, but ive only had 2 sessions, and need around 6, so i havnt noticed anything substantial yet. unfortunately, these marks r ruining my life, i cant even wear t-shirts anymore because they make me so self conscious... clearly its gonna take me a while 2 "get used 2 them." im even having problems getting intimate with my gf because i feel very embarassed, so im wondering, especially since i got them as a result of hard work and improving my body, do girls find them a huge turnoff? thx.

Answer by Too ashamed to put
Submitted on 8/21/2006
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Well I'm 1 13 year old girl,&& I've had these stretch marks on my inner thighs,&& butt..&& alot of girls at my school wear little tiny bikinis..&& I want to wear them too!But I'm really ashamed of my stretch marks..They are along the side of my butt && a couple on my inner thighs..Im really ashamed of my body..&& I feel like the only person with them..The are really embarrassing!I'm so embarrassed to change in front of people in the locker rooms..I also hate physicals cuz I don't like showing my disgusting body!I'm really skinny but my stretch marks make me look fat..I need help!I don't want my mom to know I have these disgusting marks on my body..It'll bee too embarrassing because she doesn't have any...&& i need cheap help on how t get rid of them quickly!I want to wear itsy witsy bikinis like all the girls in my school do!Please help me!I'm really desperate for help:[

Answer by JoJo
Submitted on 9/5/2006
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Wow! I am 25 and dealing with spider veins on my legs and stomach as well stretch-marks on my legs, hips and breasts. I think it depends on your skin. I have talked to my doctor and she has informed me that they start deep down in the tissue and cannot be prevented by creams. I am finding it really hard to deal with these marks but find it makes me more secure knowing that it is a common problem. I think much of the problem comes from media culture. We never see anything wrong in photos or movies. All of the celebrities have the same problems. They just have body make-up and airbrushing. If a guy is going to judge you and not embrace you then he is not worth it. If your friends judge you then they just insecure themselves. I know stretch-marks can be really hard to live with. But ask yourself it you saw an imperfection on your boyfriends body would you like him less? I sure wouldn't. Maybe its time we claimed back our bodies....

Answer by I'm dope
Submitted on 9/7/2006
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Hey my fellow stretch mark havers Well, yeah, I'm 15, I've had them for a while.. since I was like 12 probably. And I used to cry about them ALL the time but after a while you get over it. I'm far from over weight I just got them from growth and my mom had them so I guess she helped by giving me that great gene (thanks mom!) Anyway, I was reading through all of these comments on here and some of you guys seem to really be over analyzing this. No, currently, there's no way to permanently remove them. They will fade with time. And after they fade, they're only noticeable from certain angles. If you want to wear revealing clothes (bikinis, mini skirts, and all that crap) try cover up makeup, like Igia. Just don't go into the water obviously. Men don't care about them. And if you do stumble across a guy that cares about them, why would you want to be with them?.. obviously the relationship wouldn't have went anywhere in the long run because if you ended up having a kid by the asshole, you would end up with huge tiger scratches all over your stomach. Think of your stretch marks as a blessing. You can't walk around in your bra and panties. But is that a bad thing (the answer is no.) They're like a filter to weed out superficial men. And they cross some professions off your list.. thanks to your stretch marks, you'll never be able to be a stripper, model, or a porn star. What a dissappointment. Good luck and I hope that all of you see the larger picture. You're beautiful no matter what your skin looks like. Keep your head up and your little scars out of your mind. There's so many other things to worry about in life.

Answer by Lee ;)
Submitted on 9/23/2006
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Hi, I would just like to say that I put on 20 kilos in i think 4 months I didn't get stretchmarks from that but when i lost 10 kilos of that weight i put on I got them I now have them on one side of my tummy top of thighs in between thighs and hips and all over my ass they bother me a little so i'vestarted using emu oil i have seen really good results with this and will keep going there minimizing im so happy i'llkeep using this product. But on the other hand if they don't 100 percent go thats ok coz im a beautiful person and beautiful on the outside hopfully a guy will except that im not perfect! girls its ok not to be perfect you no everyone has something they hate if its not stretchmarks its there eyes or nose or scar on there ass whatever everyone who has stretchmarks just think there normal and stop creeping yourselves out just focus on the things that you can change and leave the rest or try and inprove your flaws ;) love yourself and embrace the REAL thing that needs work and thats CONFIDANTS good luck everyone ;)

Answer by Angie
Submitted on 10/25/2006
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There are a couple methods that work to get rid of stretch marks. Google Jean Wu's stretch mark cure (It's a massage method). Or you can go to the female first forum on this subject. Many people there are doing glycolic acid treatments with TriReduction. There are about 160 posts right now and it's one of the only places on the internet with information on getting rid of them. For example - Things such as Vit E, cocoa butter, and collagen are molecules too big to penetrate the dermis, however things such as emu oil (a carrier oil containing a form of vit E) and copper peptides are small enough. Some people have gotten rid of their stretch marks altogether. Check out Purple Jen's method. Have fun reading all those posts! Anyway, if you have red or purple stretch marks - DO NOT WAIT- they can be removed. White marks are harder but still possible. Whatever method you choose -remember they won't be removed immediately - it can take over a year! The key is patience and consistency.

Answer by MomToThree
Submitted on 10/31/2006
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Hi everyone ... I am sorry for all of us who have stretch marks that we can't see past to the beautiful people we are. Being self conscious is terrible and no matter how many times someone says, they aren't that bad or don't let it bother you, that terrible feeling doesn't go away. There are medical procedures that can make them look a lot better and I know because I have been having them done and although they will never be completely gone, I was able to wear a bikini this summer at the beach with my husband ... yes in full daylight! Here is what you need to know: Stretch marks are a result of the skin stretching to a point that it cant handle, so it basically rips creating a stretch mark. For me, pregnancy also created loose skin. For the loose skin I had a procedure called Thermage, which is like a laser, it is a one time treatment that tightens the skin by getting the body to produce new collagen using radio frequency. This was the beginning of my transformation and as it tightened the skin, it also made the stretch marks smoother. Next I had Meso therapy, which are micro injections that also stimulate new collagen production. Next comes Fraxel laser to resurface the skin .... about four treatments will be necessary ... this is costly but to me worth it. You need to find a dermatologist who offers these procedures and the cost for this altogether is about $6000. Good luck to you all.

Answer by Jake
Submitted on 11/30/2006
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I of all people know that stretch marks can lower a person's self esteem. I have had stretch marks since I was five years old. I have asthma, and as a kid I had to take steroids to control it. Because of the steroids I grew at least two inches every treatment. I didn't start to notices the marks until I was in middle school. They were not so bad then, but they got worse as I gained more weight. I now have them on my back, stomach, forearms, underarms, shoulders, thighs, and knees. I am now almost 19 and I have tried every cream and lotion known to man to get rid of them, but nothing has worked.I saw a doctor about possible laser treatments, but it turns out that they don't work. I am starting to accept them, but it is hard to do when people point them out. Even though I am a boy I look like I have given birth to at least 2 kids. I wish they would go away. Maybe, someday they will have the technology to remove them.

Answer by nocturnal
Submitted on 1/14/2007
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I have had stretch marks on my butt since I was 13. I am actually skinny. The reason why I have them is because I became deathly ill, and had to be put on steroids to help me breathe. (My throat was swollen shut) The steroids cause me to gain 15 lbs. They used to bother me terribly, but as I matured I got over it. People who honestly care about me will NOT judge me by marks on my skin! Back in the day when I was bothered by them I went to a dermatologist. I was prescribed Retin-A cream. Retin-A is typically used for terrible acne, because it peels off the damaged skin (little by little), and promote healthy skin to grow. Using the Retin-A was an annoying experience, but it did work. I still have stretch marks, but they are hardly noticable. Do not worry about guys seeing them either. My fiance' has seen mine, and still thinks I have the greatest butt ever =] What was the moral of this expereince? If people really care about you they will not judge you because of a few marks on your skin.=] I hope this helps!

Answer by Dizzy D
Submitted on 1/23/2007
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Wow I never realized how many people were really hiding their bodies b/c of stretch marks I am now 19 and have had marks since I was 14 when I hit a growth spurt I also hid under t-shirts and jeans for most of my teenage life now that it is almost over, I wish I had just learned to accept it and not put off doing things that young girls do I want to say to all u young girls 13-16 I kno its hard we have all been there but its not the end u can still wear cute clothes with the new styles of capris and long shorts and there are the boy shorts bikinis which are my fave regardless just take this as a lesson and take care of ur body u need to put lotion on EVERYDAY that is very important and drink that water!! If u want nice skin u have to work for it u may be born wit it but u gotta keep it up if u lotion urself everyday ur scars will fade and that will help prevent new ones the next time u grow nothing is instant either it takes time and dedication u must be dedicated to urself and being healthy good luck girls

Answer by Jiz
Submitted on 1/26/2007
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You can get rid of stretch marks if you eat veggies and water 8 times a day trust me you just have to wait! I�m 13 yrs old and I have stretch marks all over my hips and legs!!! I weigh 210 and I have some. Yesh I bugs meh but get over it! It will go away in a young age! Like 13 up to 16 if your fat and your like 30 your stretch marks will stay ... just loose weight but don�t anorexic your self. JUST EXORSISE^^ okay like I�m doing. I�m gunna try to to weigh 118 in march 27, 2008 trust I�ll get there and my stretch marks will go! Trust meh my friend she was fat and she turned down thin and ate healthy and here stretch marks were gone so don�t want until you old and fat to loose the weight start now!!!! And good bye stretchy marks^^ ~and my friends are supporting me

Answer by sonny1989
Submitted on 2/22/2007
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From the age of 9 i have been getting stretch marks on my upper and now lower arms, knees, calves, shoulders, hips and sides of my body, stomach, back, bottom, thighs ankles and now they may be forming on my face. Doctors don't care because it isn't a life threatening problem and people think im shallow if i talk of killing myself over it. I am 18 and i don't go out anymore because i can't wear anything in this Australian heat it has virtually killed my social life and my life in general i have nothing to look forward to and it is risking my chances of ever wanting to go to uni. I wish doctors would understand the pain and suffering people like me go through and how it is life threatening, it is the cause of my depression.

Answer by lanegra2007
Submitted on 3/1/2007
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hey ppl i know stretch marks are bad because i have them and well i don't like them either!!! i always cover up myself so ppl won't see them but almost none of my friends have them i am not skinny but i am not fat either i am like on the middle and well i have alot of stretch marks everywhere i just hope they would fade by time and creams with oils and stuff like that i am going to loose some wait but not to fast and well hope they fade i don't hope they disappear completly but i don't want them to show either if u ppl could recommend me something that will help fade them fast well give the answer plz well thank you ppl for reading this reading all this things makes me not hate my self the much but ohhh well take care laters!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer by Mira Mira
Submitted on 3/4/2007
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I know this question was asked ages ago, and nobody here who was looking for a possible answer for their stretch marks may ever even see this, but I thought I'd post some information I recently found when I was researching for a solution for my stretch marks, and I came across these two posts that I think are worth you guys reading. If you can't see the two links I posted at the bottom of my post, this is what the first one says: (it's by a guy named Jay who posts at Yahoo Answers board.) "OK guys. One word: MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). This is REVOLUTIONARY. It's a natural substance that comes in both pill form (supplement) and cream form (15% concentration). Take 3000mg a day (1500 mg pill in the morning, another in the evening) and use the cream on the area with stretch marks right before you go to bed at night. The cream I use is Source Natural'sMSM Cream, and any pill supplement should do (as long as it comes to 3000 mg/day). Also, if you want to really speed up results, check out stretchmarkcure.com and apply this MSM cream to the regimen. Taken both internally and externally, along with using the regimen, stretch marks will not just fade, they will be REMOVED. And not just new ones, old ones too. The age of the scar does not matter. Don't forget, stretch marks are just scars that are really, really hard to get to. Feel free to research anything I've mentioned and tell others about it. No one needs to suffer with stretch marks. P.S. - the problem with most creams is that they cannot penetrate deeply enough to treat the stretch mark. MSM is the only cream with healing properties that can penetrate down to the stretch mark. Source(s): http://www.stretchmarkcure.com http://www.pioneerthinking.com/cgi-bin/m... - - - Here are the two links: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060718173857AAyMnRv&show=7 and http://www.pioneerthinking.com/cgi-bin/mb/YaBB.pl?board=skin;action=display;num=1111800851 If you can't see either of the links for the pioneerthinking post I wanted to show you (it's the second post I was talking about), then try to google the beginning of the post: " I saw the post on scars, and since I know a lot of girls out there also have stretch marks, I thought I'd give you this bit of information to help dramatically reduce and most likely get rid of scars, no matter the age, or severity. " Good luck! And remember, worst case scenario, nothing works or you decide it's best to accept them and be happy with them, your stretch marks will naturally gradually fade with time and they won't be so pronounced. Anyways, they are a part of who you are and they show that you have LIVED. Do not be ashamed of them. Mine have been there for years and although they bothered me a little at first, I learned to live with them. But, when I heard that there might be a solution, I thought it was worth reading about it. I haven't tried the method yet, but when I get some free time, I will.

Answer by Dana
Submitted on 3/6/2007
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For all of us that have stretch marks badly the person who wrote this: "Stretch marks this n that! blah blah blah!!! You people are a bunch of vain snobs! Oh, I forgot to add cowards and losers!! Haven't you realized that the ONLY people who can't see past your scars are yourselves? The sooner you get over your scars the better couse the scars will NEVER go away! Stop being so vain! You probably deserve them for being so vain! At least it will deflate that ego! Cowards!" has no clue what their talking about. I'm 22, I've had stretch marks very very severely for about 9 or 10 years. they came up around puberty because I was a bean pole as a child and then gained a lot of weight fast. At around 19 I began slimming down again and now at 22 I'm about 115lb at 5'2' and a size 4 so I'm FAR from fat anymore but the marks are still there. They are white and shiny and I have them on the backs of my knees, my waist, very long and thick ones under my belly button, horizontal ones on each side above my belly button, running under my arms and around my whole upper arms to my elbow, my breast (though I could care less about those because just about every woman has them there) and long thin ones on each shoulder. They prevent me from so many things and so many fashions it constantly hinders my life. I love to swim and literally haven't since I was 14 because I hate the marks so much. I was cursed with a body that stretched like this and anyone that calls me vain and says i deserve it obviously has never lived with anything like this. I don't have a choice but to cover them all the time. If I don't (and trust me I've tried just saying f**k it and wearing things that show them) and people literally look at you like your a mutant. They want to know what they are and how they got there and why you have them so bad. It is a horrible thing to deal with in everyday life I constantly look into treatments and everything is discouraging. One day when i have the money I plan to sit down with my doctor and talk about any options there are out there to get rid of them. I suggest all of you do the same thing. Read and educate yourself, but there are a lot of young girls here and you could do a lot of damage to your body if your not careful. I suggest you don't do anything thing unless you consult with at least a nurse (but preferably a doctor) first. If I can live with them for 10 years you can wait to ask a doctor. As for guys, at 22 I've found guys that are both grossed out by them and guys that think their no big deal (even with how bad I have them). So do they suck and affect your daily life in a horrible way? yes, but just weigh your options and don't jump into anything that could cause more damage to your body.

Answer by Bymp
Submitted on 3/11/2007
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Well, hate to say this but stretch marks are just a thing that most people get while growing up, sometimes it happens at a young age, and other times it happens later in life. I had stretch marks on my back, after about a year of not doing anything (Hoping they would go away) They just got worse. The WORSE THING TO DO IS TO WAIT. Just buck up and go have it checked out. I was thankful that it was only stretch marks on my back cause it can always be something worse. Its not anything that shows that your fat or to tall or anything else..... It just shows that you are human and you have grown. You should have it checked out no matter who you are or how bad you have them, it can always be something worse. If it doesn't go away soon, have it checked out. Hope this has helped.

Answer by shay-leigh
Submitted on 3/13/2007
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Hey im shay-leigh and im 18 i have stretch marks on my love handles which are quiet red and lumpy i also have some on my thighs which arnt so bad or to noticeable but i dont want them to get worse, i'mnot a big girl iv always been skinny/average size and i started to get these stretch marks wen i got my p's n was always eating Maccas everyday n being lazy not exercising and then not having a job and sitting at home every day, i have a cream which im using it seems to be doing pretty well, they've gotten so much better the cream is L'OREALSTRETCHMARK ERASER, i have only been using it for a few weeks and it really is helping and my stretch marks are pretty bad so i think you should give it a go, just make shure u use it a few times a day, i hope it helps i know how self conscious it makes me to have stretch marks n not be able to were short tops or a bikini and its just embarrassing if your with a guy n he touches my hips so give it a go, and if anyone has any other good suggestions id be happy to hear them, , , but im also curious if anyone knows if it will make my stretch marks worse if i exercise n lose weight fast as im starting a diet and dont want them to get worse, . thanx shay-leigh xoxo

Answer by Dav
Submitted on 3/21/2007
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Sorry, it's me again, i'm new and I don't know if all these posts are going through. I keep reading odd posts and they really get to me. I want to say something to make everyone feel better. All I can say is that personally I wouldn't even think twice about your stretch marks. For people who are worried about telling your family, they're your family, and if they say something about them that upsets you - tell them. I'm going to go now, smile guys. lol. Oh, Before I forget, to the really insensitive posts I've read, I can respect honesty, but the honesty that various people have used, has been used primarily to hurt people. Keep your mouth's shut! It's not so easy for everyone. If you're a naturally confident person, then you have no right to comment on people being embarresed about there stretch marks, and if you've grown to be confident, appreciat who you was. (And I hope you never complain about anything to do with your appearance ever again for as long as you live.)

Answer by Sweetnothings
Submitted on 4/4/2007
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Stretch marks have nothing to do with the amount of lotion or treatment you put on your skin... If you're prone to stretch marks you WILL get stretch marks!!! It just that simple. I think one thing we need to all keep in mind is that we are beautiful no matter what our outer skin looks like. We should celebrate our bodies, whether they are covered in stretch marks or not! I'm 25 years old and I started getting stretch marks on my back when I was a little girl. I grew fast, and my body shows my amazing growth story. In my teenage years, I started getting stretch marks on my thighs and knees... and I was so embarrassed. Talking with friends I learned that I was not alone and that most of my friends had stretch marks on at least one part of their body. Now I have learned to just live with my stretch marks.... they have a story to tell. Ladies, Be proud of your body. If you have stretch marks, learn to live with them... because they aren't going anywhere ( unless you have tons of $$$$... hehe) Sending BIG hugs :)

Answer by Junior
Submitted on 4/25/2007
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Hey girls. STRESS LESS!!! I am a footy player and hence train in the gym a lot, and there's nothing I love more then the pump I get from a hard session. However due to growing quite fast I've developed stretch marks on my upper arms far worse then I've seen any girl with them. To top it off I am an extremely self-conscious person. I've been looking for that perfect remedy since the day I first noticed them and have used every cream under the sun and even consulted my GP about it. He gave me a steroid cream which disappointingly did absolutely nothing. I have noticed that a good tan will make them less noticeable, but as winter draws on and the tan fades, the stretch marks become more obvious. I get around this generally by tanning in the summer when I'm wearing short sleeve shirts or no shirt, and always wearing long sleeve shirts and jackets in the winter. When it comes to relationships and friends, I try not to make them out to be a big deal (because we all know we are here wanting a fix due to the perception of others). If someone is naive enough not to know what stretch marks are and how common they are, I simply tell them "They're stretch marks from my training" - an answer which is completely honest yet seems to move conversation right along. Another quick point. Stretch marks are a lot more common along guys then you girls think. Almost every guy I see in the gym have them. Take care and God Bless!!!

Answer by yc
Submitted on 4/25/2007
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this for all you incompassionate people who don't realize the severity of having horrible scars such as these. how the hell would you feel if all your summers were spent either sweating with jeans or alone in the a.c. because you were ashamed of the scars all over your body. the truth is that yes, you must be confident with yourself because if you are a genuinely good and perhaps an attractive person despite your scars you wont be alone forever. however not everyone is capable of brushing off their insecurities and it is so rude and harsh when others are insensitive and treat stretch marks as if it's a cold. being young like myself and knowing that i can never wear shorts outside of my house is something i don't know if i will ever completely get over. wasting money on all different kinds of medications isn't that great either. the truth is if someone had to choose between someone with stretch marks and without .. who would YOU choose? HELLOO!! it's obvious. the best thing to do is do your research, try and eat healthy and excercise, take care of your body and if it helps you sleep at night, try all of these products, but don't let anyone tell you it's not a big deal. because if it matters to you, it MATTERS. in the end if you're happy with yourself it's easier to overlook this and not let it take over your life. maybe then, someone who is worth your time will make it even easier to forget.

Answer by tea
Submitted on 5/4/2007
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Incase anyone ever reads this!! OK I know that there are like 100 questions and answers up above and I didnt read them all but heres my advice... I'm 20 and I'm a sophmore in college and let me tell you something::: YOU DON'T GET STRETCH MARK BECAUSE "YOU"RE FAT" If you notice above many of the girl complaining about marks are 14-17ish... The thing is when parts of your body grow faster then your skin does you get stretch marks!!!This is why girls get stretch marks on their hips and boobs during development and even why women get stretch marks when pregnant. Many men get stretch marks when their muscles grow too fast also. The best ways to help stretch marks is to first of all eat natural and not gain like 30 pounds in a month. Coco-butter helps alot... and for the YOUNGER GIRLS... stretch marks fade as time goes.. so eventually when you are done growing in all areas... They'll probably go away anyway.

Answer by charlie x
Submitted on 5/17/2007
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well.. people who want to no if stretch marks go well sadly not I'm only 14 years old ive had stretch make since i was 11.. i had loads of difficulty with them i dont wear swimsuits or if i do want to get a tan i hang out at mine where no one will see them, tbh there perfectly normal loads of girls in my school have them some of them are practically anorexic! creams and moisturizes do help especially oil and coco butter, excerise does defo help but make sure you don't gain weight and loose it to quickly, i have stretch marks on my bum,thighs,inside my my legs, back on my legs, and slightly on my hips but they have faded in 2 little white scares but they wont disappear no matter what(i make something up like i was bitten by a shark while on holiday if anyone asks about them) unless you get lazer surgery which peels of the top layer of skin but stretch marks are deeper than the top layer so be careful you don't want to go from white to deep reddy purple!! x x x

Answer by h8strtchmarx
Submitted on 5/18/2007
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ok heres my story. im 16 with stretch marks. ive had them for about 2 years now and theyre on the sides of my butt and i hate going out to wear a bikini. the thing is im 5'4 and 110 lbs. when i would tell my friends that i have stretch marks too, they'd laugh. they really dont believe me until they see them. i hated when people would tell me oh theyre fine and people dont notice and they'll fade in time. well i dont think theyre fine and i DO notice and i dont want them to fade in time i want them to fade now. some people dont get it, its really hard to just ignore stretch marks, were women we want to feel good about ourselves. so i tried using cocoa butter made especially for stretch marks. it made them white, but they were still really bad. then i thought whatever i'lljust see how the time thing goes. its been a long time and they look exactly the same. im not rich so i cant afford the expensive stuff, i wanted something that was cheap and would work. well i read about trying the vicks vapor rub. i put it on last night and i rubbed the area for about 5 minutes or so and i woke up this morning and they didnt look as bad! and that was just one night! i honestly didnt think it would work because nothing ever works for me:S but i was desperate and tried it anyways. now im doing a little work out that takes 10 minutes at night to stay fit, and drinking lots of water. i know all skin is different, what works for some people might now work on others, but please just give it a shot. what do you got to lose besides those stretch marks? i hope it works great for you.

Answer by butterfly
Submitted on 6/30/2007
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hey girls and boys, my daughter is now 1yr old. i have stretch marks from my pregnancy and breast feeding. they are always going to be visible... even if they fade, but they can look better if you make sure your skin is well moisturised. Use fake tan that makes a big difference. Stretch marks can be improved if you use creams and oils, but a good diet can prevent them. for your skin to stretch it needs to have elasticity. Try taking supplements like Flaxseed oil. This will really help your skin to cope.you can get them from health food shops and they are cheaper than most of the creams on the market. you need to be healthy on the inside to glow on the outside. Don't forget your still beautifull stretch marks or not. the more confidence you have, the less others will care about your imperfections. i'm21 and gorgeous!!!! good luck to you all and enjoy your life x

Answer by Megan
Submitted on 7/8/2007
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Stretch marks stink.... but pretty much everyone (females atleast) get them! When your body grows really fast your skin doesn't have the time to grow with it... thus it creates stretch marks because it needs to stretch to keep up with your height. I use to think that only heavy people got stretch marks and it freaked me out when I was going through puberty... I thought I was getting really fat... but the truth is... even people who are a size zero get them!!!! Ive tried all types of creams too and the only thing that ever helped them was time. The ugly purple and redness of them is very embarassing, but they do fade over time. Everyone goes through it so don't be embarassed!!!!!!

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Question by Dani Rae
Submitted on 8/2/2003
Related FAQ: rec.arts.bodyart: Tattoo FAQ 9/9--Bibliography
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Say you have some slight stretch marks on your lower back....is it still okay to get a tattoo there??

Answer by Purpledragyn
Submitted on 8/3/2003
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I have stretch marks from being a chubby fourteen year old at one time..Now, I'm 24 and my dragon turned out perfectly! Don't worry :)

Answer by Rachael
Submitted on 10/17/2003
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I have stretch marks on my back from when i was growing up but i still have a tattoo there. the only piece of advise i would say is be aware that where you get stretch marks is where you you will most likely get them if you become pregnant. and tattoos don't look very good with lines through them, but on the up side if you decided to go ahead with the tattoo and stretch marks do appear then find a good tattooist and they will probably be able to do some cover-up or amendment work.

Answer by CHi CHi
Submitted on 12/22/2003
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Hi im a 16 year old girl and I have stretch marks and Ive had them since i was 14 and I do not know how to get rid of them? It bothers me because I cant wear certain clothes w/o people seeing it. Its awful someone help me!

Answer by Whitney
Submitted on 12/26/2003
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Hey I'm 16 and i started getting stretch marks this year..at first they were just on my thighs..but then more appeared..i'm not fat or perfectly skinny..but i wouldn't say im fat enough to have stretch marks..i don't know whats going on. right now im using mederma though..its not really working. HELP!! i cant war bathing suites now!

Answer by lil_hottie1432
Submitted on 12/28/2003
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hey i have steach marks on my breast how can i get rid of them

Answer by Ka pow
Submitted on 12/31/2003
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im 15 rite now and i started having stretch marks when i was 13. they're on my breast, thighs, and a few are on my calfs and its getting worst. i wouldnt say im fat or skinny, but in the middle. ive tried wearing this stretch mark minimizer but tat doesnt help very much. wat do i do?

Answer by New Mommy
Submitted on 1/1/2004
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Hello. I am 17 and I am going to become a new mommy. I am getting slight stretch marks on my lower abdomen only on the left side of my belly button. I personal use coca-butter. Once a day I put coca-butter on my stretch marks, but I put so much on but I don't rub it in. I lay there for at least 30 to 45 min. Then I rub it in. But if I am in a hurry , when I get out of the shower I put so much on but I only rub it in so much. This technique is really helping me. The stretch marks have really been fading and really disappearing but you would have to do this daily. That's what I did. I hope my advice helped. Thanxs.

Answer by Stacey
Submitted on 1/7/2004
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I also have horrible stretch marks that are very embarrasing, i'vehad for about 2 or 3 years now. On my love handles, my breast's and a little on my thighs. They're horrible. I'm desperate to get rid of them. Please help me.

Answer by jessica anderson
Submitted on 1/11/2004
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i have stretch marks too and im not fat or anything but,after my growth spurt at 15, ive had these ugly stretch marks on my legs and i wanna get rid of them but how? i dont even like wearing skirts anymore. is there anyone that can help?

Answer by nano
Submitted on 1/15/2004
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I first got stretch marks when I was about 14 or so... Im 20 now and they faded to silvery scars but were still quite visible... However I read a few things and it seemed the most common thing people were saying was to use some cream or other abd massage it in.. I bought some 'Garnier' 'skin naturals body cocoon' (ultra nourishing cream milk, soothes and repairs skin) for about �3.00 (really cheap!) after using it once a day for a few days I noticed the scars were much less visible and fading.. I dont think you have to use the particular cream I did, I think just about any old moisturising cream will do it...

Answer by Flying Squirrels
Submitted on 1/19/2004
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I am 15 and have had stretch marks since I was 13. They are on my thighs and love handles. I am not fat at 5'& and 120 lbs. Like the people above I have heard that something like cocoa butter cream will minimize them but I want something that is fast. It is January now and I want these to not be noticeable by April or at least summer. I would go and buy a stretch mark cream like Vita-K but I'm too embarrass to get it and am afraid it won't work. Please help.

Answer by Amber
Submitted on 1/19/2004
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I have read everyone of your ?'s I got stretch when I was 14 I am now 25. I tried everything when I was younger and nothing helped. With age the reddness will go away. But there is nothing out there that will make them totaly go away. Just know that you are not the only one with them. There are many many girl's with them (men 2).

Answer by Maggie
Submitted on 1/22/2004
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I am 20 years old and have a 7 month old baby after my pregnancy I noticed many stretch marks on my sides and stomach I started putting on a product called Re Fine stretch marks from Avon and it has helped me they have been getting lighter little by little. Hope this will help you girls.

Answer by Charlie
Submitted on 2/1/2004
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How can you prevent them?

Answer by UGh
Submitted on 2/4/2004
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I'm 17 years old and have had stretch marks since I was 14. I dont understand why I have them because I've always been really skinny and I am really skinny. I have them on my thighs and bum. Mine are whitish in colour but they stick out because i have natural tan skin. I really want to get rid of them because they're realllllllly annoying and I am really frusterated because i dont understand why i have them. I hope someone can help. THank!

Answer by Shelly
Submitted on 2/6/2004
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I have stretch marks on mi breast.. im so embarressed to wear bathsuits ... what can i do to make them go away?? PLease help me :(!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer by thatothergirl
Submitted on 2/6/2004
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Has any of you tried Strivectin-D? I heard it works really well, but is expensive.

Answer by Nelle
Submitted on 2/7/2004
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i am 16 years old and my stretch marks have already turned a whitish color, so it's too late for me to get rid of them completely, or at least a lot. just a word to the wise girls, do not go out and buy those expensive and pricey creams, they don't work if your marking pigment is beyond reddish or pinkish.

Answer by Adam
Submitted on 2/11/2004
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I'm a 15 year old male, and have had stretch marks since puberty. I was a really short kid, and am now a tall teenager, so I grew a whole lot in a short amount of time. I have stretch marks on my tummy, sides, lower back, butt, calves, and arms. They cause me to be very self-conscious and inhibited. I'm getting over it though. As I get older, they fade. They started out as thick and purplish red, but they're turning silvery white. You just have to live your life, and realise that most people get stretch marks at some point. They're very normal.

Answer by Ellie
Submitted on 2/12/2004
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I Have reddish stretch marks on my breasts and bum. I am 14. And I have a list of these things to use but where can you buy these oils and creams? I want to talk to my mom about them so she can make an appointment for me but I just don't want anybody else to find out about them.

Answer by help me
Submitted on 2/15/2004
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I am 14 years old and i have stretch marks on my breasts how can i get rid of them and its embarising because i cant wear bathing suites help me !

Answer by damn E
Submitted on 2/15/2004
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i have em on my arms (from workin out) stomach (to much beer) and thighs (from working out) the way i look at it, who cares if you have em, by the sounds of this web site, lots of ppl do...and i notice at school theres tons of ppl with them, so dont beat yourself up about it, no ones perfect, dont buy creams that dont work, just wait it out...and if anyone bugs you about them tell them to eat dck and to go fck themselves.

Answer by cheville
Submitted on 2/16/2004
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hey i have had stretch marks since i had my baby three years ago.Is it still possible for me to get rid of them now.

Answer by jennifer
Submitted on 2/18/2004
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i have stretch marks on my arm how would i go about covering it. i would love to wear tank top but i can't because of the stretch marks what should i do about it.

Answer by sue
Submitted on 2/19/2004
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I'm 13 and have just started seeing stretch marks on my butt there are only a few of them but they are really bugging me i put contouring complex gel on them hoping that will help...it is supposed to tone up skin. does any one know how i can get rid of these marks and will the gel work? I'm to embarrassed to ask my mom so you are my only hope! thanks

Answer by jay
Submitted on 2/24/2004
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I am 31 and have had stretch marks since I was 13 and went on an eating binge and gained 15 pounds in 2 weeks. Those finally faded away, but everytime I have weight gain the marks keep creeping up, like a run in pantyhose. They are almost under my breasts now and I am looking at having my first child...what will happen to me then?

Answer by James
Submitted on 2/25/2004
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im sick of having to hide these horrible marks, i hate taking fof my t-shirt,well i did, and then thought what all the fuss is about im know 25 and they are just lite grey hardly even see them, don't panic guys its just life, take care man. Dee

Answer by Bronwen
Submitted on 2/25/2004
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Hey I'm 14, I've actually had stretch marks for about 2 years. I hate them, i am 5ft7" an about 9 1/2 stone. I'm not fat but definitely not thin. My stretch marks are all on my bum, hips and tons & tons on my thighs. Lots of creams and things really help some people but its not working with me sadly. I have really low self-esteem anyway and this isn't helping. I've always hated my legs but i despise them now i have these huge red, dents in my legs! I doubt i will ever have enough confidence 2 wear a skirt or shorts ever again.

Answer by TJ
Submitted on 2/29/2004
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HI I JUST READ ALL THESE QUESTIONS HERE AND SOMEONE ASKED IS THERE ANY WAY 2 PREVENT THEM MY MUM SAID RUBBING BABY OIL INTO YOUR SKIN HELPS 2 KEEP THEM AWAY ITS SUPPOSE 2 HELP YOUR SKIN STRETCH OR SOMETHING... ALSO WHY ARE YOU ALL SO SELF CONSCIENCE ABOUT THIS SO MANY PEOPLE I KNOW INCLUDING MYSELF HAVE STRETCH MARKS AND NOBODY CARES JUST STOP BEING VAIN AND GET OVER IT....

Answer by Ellie
Submitted on 3/1/2004
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I now realized that it is normal to have them and It is not such a big deal about them So what if your body isn't the right color or shape. People like you for you. Not for what you look like and if they like you for what you look like then u deserve better!

Answer by chiquita
Submitted on 3/1/2004
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I am 15 yrs old and I just had a baby 2mths ago and I have tons of stretch marks mostly all over my body and they don't want to go away.So I started using coco butter for my stretch marks and they are starting to lighten little by little.

Answer by keke
Submitted on 3/4/2004
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please i have stretch marks on my breats.. i want to know how long it takes it to fade b/c summer is coming and i dont want people to see PLEASE answer back

Answer by Pregnant
Submitted on 3/8/2004
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Yes, stretch marks are terrible! I am 25 and currently 8 months pregnant. I recently found several small stretch marks on my lower belly. This is after applying tons of cocoa butter lotion everyday since I became pregnant. So to make the story short, no matter how many creams you try, you will not prevent them. My suggestion to all is eat healthy, exercise, and don't worry too much about them. They are usually hereditary, so you can't do much about that. Good luck to all...!

Answer by gemma
Submitted on 3/10/2004
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please help i am 12 i have them on my legs and on my hips if i lose wait and do running will they go