What's The Difference Between Stretch Marks And Cellulite?

Curious about the difference between stretch marks and cellulite? It can be hard to tell sometimes!

Is there really a difference between stretch marks and cellulite? Aren't they one in the same? Or is one simply an effect of the other? Actually, there's more than just one difference between stretch marks and cellulite -- and here's how to tell the two from each other.

#1 - Causes

Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched beyond its elastic limits for extended periods of time. An example of such situations is when a woman becomes pregnant and her abdomen expands to accommodate the new baby, or when a person rapidly gains weight. Stretch marks are very easily found in overweight and obese individuals.

Cellulite, on the other hand, is caused by a buildup of fat and water under the skin in certain areas of the body. This is usually caused by an unhealthy lifestyle that's carried over a period of several years.

#2 - Appearance

Stretch marks begin as red or purple streaks on the skin, and they may be slightly raised over the surrounding skin. Over time, the marks begin to flatten and become light-colored, and may even sink into the skin. These marks occur most often around the thighs, abdomen, and breasts, and appear as jagged streaks that are lighter than the surrounding skin.

This is a big difference between stretch marks and cellulite -- cellulite has a very different appearance. The skin takes a raised and puckered look where cellulite is evident, often taking the appearance of orange peel or golf balls. One similarity between stretch marks and cellulite is that they are both very unsightly, and people suffering from them would much rather not show them in public.

#3 - Treatment and Prevention

There are many creams and other topical medications that can improve the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. There are also several invasive dermatological practices that can get rid of these unsightly marks on the skin. But preventing their occurrences is always better than attempting to cure them after the fact.

Your first line of defense against cellulite and stretch marks is, of course, a healthy lifestyle. By eating the right kinds of food, getting enough rest, and maintaining a good exercise regimen, you'll be protecting yourself against obesity and fat buildup. A healthy lifestyle will also keep you from getting sick too often, which can keep you in bed and contribute to even more weight gain.

It's also important to remember to take your vitamins. Vitamin supplements can help keep your skin healthy from the inside and out, reducing the risk of stretch marks and cellulite as you grow older. Vitamin C and E are two of the most important skin-friendly vitamins you can take.

To treat existing stretch marks, use the contents of a Vitamin E capsule and apply it directly on the affected areas. Done over a long period of time, this practice may result in the complete removal of your stretch marks. When it comes to cellulite, it ma be a good idea to massage and use warm compresses on the area to improve circulation and fat burn.

It's a good idea to know the difference between stretch marks and cellulite to know what the best treatments for each is.

Tweet

More Information on Cellulite!

There's More Than One Cure For Cellulite
Still searching for a cure for cellulite? You're not alone. Many women are looking for ways to get rid of this skin disorder.

Causes of Cellulite in Men
What causes cellulite in men? Read on to find out more about men and this skin disorder.

Smoking and Cellulite
What's the deal with smoking and cellulite? Most doctors agree that smoking is harmful to your health, but can quitting help get rid of your cellulite?

Removing Cellulite - Learn How!
Removing cellulite isn't always easy. But don't let this frustrating skin disorder get the best of you!

Cellulite on Front of Thighs
Is there something special about cellulite on front of thighs as opposed to other areas of the body? Some people feel there is a difference while others say there is not.

Cellulite In Your Feet
How do you know if you have cellulite in your feet? It may be a condition called cellulitis.

Surgery for Cellulite Treatment
Looking at the possibility of surgery for cellulite treatment? There are many different ways to treat cellulite ? learn about the method of plastic surgery.

Painful Cellulite
What to do when painful cellulite is interfering with your daily life? Learn about the Stages of cellulite.

Diminish Cellulite and Stretch Marks
Hoping to diminish cellulite and stretch marks? You?re not alone - many women are looking for a solution to a common skin problem.

Pills to Remove Cellulite
You may have seen advertisements for pills to remove cellulite. Are these supplements worth the cost and do they work?

Reducing Cellulite
With that special event coming up, you?re probably looking for a way to reduce cellulite. Use these tips to get smoother, firmer skin!

HRT and Cellulite
Curious about the relationship between HRT and cellulite? Learn what hormone replacement therapy means for your skin.

Menopause and Cellulite
Is there a connection between menopause and cellulite? Learn more about the relationship between cellulite and your hormones.

Deep Cellulitis Infections Leading To Amputation
You may have heard of cellulitis infections leading to amputations. But how often does it happen, and what is to blame?

Facts About Cellulite - What You Need to Know
How do you seperate the facts about cellulite from the fiction? See what the medical community has to say about this annoying skin condition!