Who can deny it, puberty is a big pain in the behind. Pimples, growth spurts, stretch marks, peer pressure all contribute to a more self conscious attitude. However, the best part of growing up is that the "in" crowd moves on, your pimples fade, and even the growth spurts stop, but the one thing that will probably haunt you for life are stretch marks.

So, if you're wondering how you can deal with this type of skin problem the best suggestion is that you concentrate on stretch mark prevention. Always remember, the more elastic your skin is, the more likely it will stand up to excessive stretching.

Stretch marks are caused by a disruption in the production of collagen. Therefore, it is safe to assume that lotions containing collagen boosters can do the trick. Vitamin A and Vitamin E are two ingredients that help promote the production of collagen.

So, when deciding on a stretch marks cream or a moisturizer, make sure you find products that contain these ingredients to help prevent the appearance of striae on the skin.

Another source of stretch marks are weight fluctuations. Because of hormonal fluctuations most teenagers begin to gain weight, and sometimes this weight increase is excessive.

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. Try to stay away from junk food and fast food as they only contain empty calories and can even exacerbate another teen problem: acne.

You can also help yourself maintain a healthy weight by exercising regularly. Exercise has several other benefits as well. Some of which include keeping your skin healthy, keeping your body flexible and strong, and even helping control your mood swings.

Ways of Treating Stretch Marks Once they Appear

Since stretch marks are linked to genetics, you may not always be able to prevent them. Fortunately, there are stretch marks lotions that can help you get rid of stretch marks. For teenagers, one of the safest products is rose hip seed oil.

Rose hip seed oil is extracted from the hips of a rose bush. It is a cold-pressed oil that contains high levels of vitamins A and C and essential fatty acids. Its natural origins make it a very safe product to use on any skin type.

The mentioned components help promote the production of collagen and new skin cells. Damaged cells are eliminated and replaced by these new cells. In essence, the stretch marks begin to shrink in size and appearance.

If you don't trust stretch marks creams, then you can always just cover them up. Body makeup is more durable than traditional foundation. Spray-on tans are another way of covering up stretch marks, especially during summer.