Puberty is full of problems: pimples and acne, growth spurts and weight gain, and the dreaded stretch marks. It seems like a difficult moment in life and it's a wonder you can even survive it, however, you should keep in mind that you're not the first to go through puberty and certainly not the last. That's why it's comforting to know that there are ways of dealing with these problems.

In the case of stretch marks the group of teenagers most affected is usually women, however men aren't a stranger to stretch marks. In order to protect your skin your best bet is stretch mark prevention. Don't forget that by maintaining your skin healthy you will help it survive the wear-and-tear of overstretching.

How to Prevent Stretch Marks

The main causes of stretch marks are both growth spurts and rapid weight fluctuations, however, stretch marks are often produced when there is a disruption in the production of collagen. So, if the disruption of collagen is the cause, it's fair to assume that collagen boosting products can be the solution.

Once you've found the right stretch marks cream, you need to be consistent with its application if you are really serious of preventing stretch marks.

Another source of stretch marks is weight gain. Due to hormonal fluctuations most teenagers will gain weight excessively during this time.

If you want to keep this under control, it is important that you follow a sensible diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent way to maintain a healthy weight. Also avoid junk foods and fast foods as they only contain empty calories and can even exacerbate another teen problem: acne.

Maintaining a consistent exercise routine is also important to maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise has other benefits as well. It can keep your skin healthy, keep your body flexible and strong and even control your mood swings.

Eliminating Stretch Marks

Stretch marks lotions can help you get rid of stretch marks or minimize their appearance. There is also a natural, cold pressed oil that is an excellent stretch mark treatment: rose hip seed oil. This oil is very gentle and safe enough to use on teenage skin.

Rose hip oil is obtained from the rosa moschata bush found in southern South America. Its success in treating stretch marks is due to its high levels of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and essential fatty acids.

These substances help dissolve damaged cells and flush them from the affected area while also helping promote the production of new collagen and skin cells. This is a process that takes time, but little by little the stretch mark begins to shrink in size.

If you're not willing to invest in stretch mark creams then you can also try and cover up them up. Body makeup is more durable than traditional foundation. Spray-on tans are an ideal way to cover up your stretch marks, especially during summer.