Many people have to deal with striae in their lives, though they've probably never heard the term. Instead, most folks know them by their more common name: stretch marks. Stretch marks occur whenever we increase our body mass faster than our skin can accommodate.

Our skin has a certain amount of elasticity, which allows for movement and growth without constantly developing stretch marks. However, when our rate of growth exceeds the level of elasticity in our skin, stretch marks will occur. Most experts will tell you that the key to treating stretch marks is in preventing them in the first place by keeping your skin continually moisturized. However, for those of us who already have stretch marks, such advice isn't exactly music to our ears. We just want to know how to get rid of them!

Many commercially available lotions and creams have a beneficial effect on existing stretch marks. Keep in mind that no cream is going to completely eliminate your stretch marks. If such a cream existed, it would make front page news around the globe. However, you can minimize the appearance of stretch marks.

To help minimize stretch marks, you're looking for products which replenish the natural oils in your skin, especially anything high in vitamin A, vitamin E and alpha hydroxyl acids (also known as 'fruit acids.') Make sure you rub them deeply into the areas around your existing stretch marks. By keeping your skin in good condition you will both minimize your existing stretch marks and help prevent the development of new ones.

While you wait for your stretch marks to fade, do your best to not feel self-conscious. I know you're faced with the images of 'perfect' models on magazine covers at the supermarket, but keep in mind that they have a professional airbrush artist working overtime to keep them hidden!