Stretch marks are caused by the tearing of elastin fibers as a result of the rapid expansion of the skin due to weight gain. While it is most commonly caused by pregnancy, any other cause of weight gain in a short amount of time can cause stretch marks.

Whether or not someone gets stretch marks relies partially on genetics, but the body's wound-healing function also plays a role; nutritional deficiencies may affect how the body heals from trauma and how it deals with scar tissue and broken-down or degraded collagen and elastin fibers.

In order for the fibroblasts to continue producing collagen and elastin, and the enzymes collagenase and elastinase to continue devouring broken-down proteins rather than healthy proteins, it is important to eat a diet rich in fresh, whole foods containing vitamins A, B complex, and C, as well as amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.

Vitamins A and C can be found in fresh citrus fruits and berries; dark leafy greens; and yellow and orange vegetables, like carrots, tomatoes, and peppers. Vitamins and amino acids can be found in whole grains, such as barley and unprocessed oats, nuts, seeds, legumes, eggs, and poultry.

It is often heard that the best way to deal with stretch marks is to not get them at all, but prevention is not always possible since people are not always aware they are getting them. While a lifestyle change that includes a nutrient-dense, whole foods-based diet can help immensely, it is most effective when paired with the optimal topical skin care regimen.

The skin needs the right nutrients topically, just like it does internally. Natural, unrefined, cold-pressed oils and butters are easily absorbed by the skin and help maintain the integrity of the skin's cellular structure. The most commonly used oils and butters are coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter, but oil blends containing sesame oil, olive oil, argan oil, rosehip seed oil, sea buckthorn oil, emu oil, and even jojoba oil are all great options. These contain vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids that promote healing.

It is also very important to protect the skin from prolonged exposure to the sun. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen when outside to avoid hyper- or hypopigmentation of stretch marks and to prevent additional damage at a cellular level from ultraviolet rays and free radicals.

Other important considerations are circulation and hydration. For all body processes to occur, nutrients must be able to be delivered and toxins and debris must be able to be eliminated. Dry skin brushing and body scrubs; therapies like massage, hot stone therapy, far infrared sauna, and ionithermie all help to increase blood and lymphatic circulation.

Hydration is key for stretch marks as dehydrated skin will always appear more crepey in texture and both absorption and wound healing will be inhibited.

While many people look for the quick fix, stretch mark prevention and treatment is best approached as a lifestyle change; healthy, glowing skin is maintained over time, rather than acutely treated.