I started training about 3 months ago and have been in a bulking period.. I have gained 16 pounds, went from 38 cm to 42 cm around my biceps, from 94 to 88 around my waist. I am 17, 6'1 tall, and have been training before, but stopped weight-training, when I started swimming.

The last couple of weeks I have developed stretch marks on my biceps, lower back, and shoulders. Since I noticed the marks I have monitored my water and vitamin intake, applied Cocoa Butter, and been supplementing with ZMA. The stretch marks are still getting bigger and more visible. I know some of you see stretch marks as "War Tokens", but I don't want them.

I have been thinking about not training for 2-3 weeks to make sure my skin will keep up. Still, I don't like to watch my hard-earned muscles shrink. Now, my question to all you people on these boards, who know a lot about this stuff: If I start toning now, will it secure that I don't develop more stretch marks?

I don't expect to grow at the same rate anymore, so I won't be having this problem when I start bulking again - and btw, I have not been on any kind of supplement - not even protein powder or kreatin - and I have not been using roids, so that is not the reason for my stretch marks. I guess, I haven't been as fortunate when it comes to genes as many of you guys. Anyway, I'll really appreciate your help

Thanks

There are a lot of products out there that claim to prevent or get rid of stretch marks, but most doctors will tell you they don't work.

There is no cream that will put keratin in your skin and stretch marks are basically scars. Once they're there, they're there for good, but they will fade and eventually become barely noticeable. Mederma might make them fade quicker but is pretty expensive. Some say rubbing castor oil on them helps take away the redness.

I never had a problem with the ones on the backs of my legs or under my arms, where the pec, deltoid and bicep come together, but once I bulked really fast (not eating right) and got a couple on my stomach. I was embarrassed of them for a long time, but they faded and you can hardly see them now.

If you cut now, you should stop their growth. I think its a myth that losing weight can cause them.

I feel for u dude...Stretch marks suck balls' trust me i know, i have them on my back and hips. Apparently there is laser surgery u can get on them but its expensive but works really great

I'll cut now then. Thanks a lot guys