Stretch marks are red or yellow lines which sweep across the skin. They are the bain of many women’s bodies. Once the skin has stretched, although they shrink and fade to silvery traces, the marks are there permanently.

Stretch marks are a form of scarring and are most often found on women’s hips, thighs, buttocks, tummy and breasts but can develop on any area where fat is deposited. Pregnancy, weight fluctuation and changes in body shape at adolescence can all result in stretch marks.

Keeping the skin supple and well moisturised from the inside out will help prevent stretch marks. A wholefood diet packed with essentials fats, zinc, Vitamin C and E are especially good for your skin. If you struggle to get the nutrients you need from your diet, think about taking supplements. As always, drink plenty of water to ensure your skin is properly hydrated and also to flush out toxins.

Pregnancy is a time when women worry most about stretch marks when their skin is stretched to its limits. Try to help the process by keeping the skin supple and elastic through use of heavy creams, however stretch marks tend to be hereditary, so if your mum got stretch marks it is likely that you will too.