Everything You Need to Know About Stretch Marks (And How to Deal with Them)

Nearly 90 percent of women have stretch marks, based on findings by the University of Michigan. While this is a normal thing and there is really nothing wrong about having stretch marks, they can be bothersome to a professional cheerleader.

Having stretch marks can decrease your self-confidence and affect your performance whether you’re auditioning for a team or performing at a home game. After all, gorgeous-looking skin is one of the beauty requirements of a professional cheerleading team. 

In this blog post, let’s gain a better understanding of stretch marks. We’ll talk about the common causes of stretch marks. Next, we’ll tackle some helpful tips on how to avoid them and minimize their appearance.

What triggers stretch marks?

By now, you are asking yourself, “What exactly causes stretch marks?” Stretch marks are triggered by anything that stretches your skin. It can be sudden weight gain, pregnancy, or muscle growth (as when you work out). Collagen bundles of your skin stretch and the result are silver or white streaks.

They often appear in areas such as the buttocks, stomach, hips, bottom, and thighs. Genetics play a role in your a person’s tendency to get stretch marks. But whether you’re at an increased risk or not, there are helpful ways to deal with them.

Vitamin E Oil

Natalie of the New York Jets Flight Crew swears by vitamin E oil as an effective treatment to minimize stretch marks. What it does is that it moisturizes the affected areas and improves its elasticity. When your skin is able to stretch better because it’s more elastic, you’re less likely to develop tissue damage. Try applying Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil with Vitamin E.

Weight Control

One of the best (but most challenging) means of preventing stretch marks is to keep your weight under control. But since a fitter body is a prerequisite to being a professional cheerleader, take this as an opportunity to avoid weight gain. Also be careful not to lose weight immediately. Allow your skin to adapt to weight changes.

Stay Properly Hydrated

Keeping your body well-hydrated plays a big role in the prevention and reduction of stretch marks. Water flushes away toxins that may also be responsible for stretch marks. After a light or heavy workout session or if it’s hot outside, be sure to drink lots of water - aim for at least 3 to 5 liters per day.

Treat fresh stretch marks

Newer stretch marks respond differently to treatment. Minor new marks are more responsive to treatments and you can deal with them by applying vitamin A oil. This will help stimulate promote collagen production. They say that in six weeks, you’ll see improvement in their appearance. Laser treatments also work as they reduce redness.

Apply Makeup Concealer

If you’re going to sweat out a lot, choose a sweat-proof concealer. There are several available in the market such as the NYX Concealer Stick, Makeup Forever Full Cover Waterproof Concealer, and Smashbox 24 Hour CC Spot Concealer. Regardless of the makeup you pick, opt for a color that matches your skin tone. Dab the product on your skin gently.

Conclusion

Applying an essential oil such as vitamin E, controlling your weight, drinking enough water, treating fresh stretch marks, and using a concealer are all simple tips you can try today. These skin care methods will hopefully boost the way you feel about yourself when you perform for the judges or fans. Lastly, don’t hesitate to see a doctor if you notice that you keep getting stretch marks.

Can you picture yourself dancing under the bright lights alongside gorgeous cheerleaders, cheering for the NFL or NBA?

If you dream of joining a professional dance team audition but have no idea on how to get started, my book entitled Professional Cheerleading Audition Secrets: How To Become an Arena Cheerleader for NFL®, NBA®, and Other Pro Cheer Teams will guide you every step of the way.

I decided to write this book to help you discover the best tips and advice on staying fit and beautiful, adopting the right mindset, maintaining your image, and more - based on my 20+ years of experience in the professional cheerleading industry.

Grab your own copy of my book by clicking the text or image below:

Professional Cheerleading Audition Secrets: How To Become an Arena Cheerleader for NFL®, NBA®, and Other Pro Cheer Teams