Stretch marks occur in the dermis, the elastic middle layer of skin that allows it to retain its shape. However, when constantly stretched, the dermis can break down leaving behind stretch marks. Anti Stretch creams can help individuals reduce stretch marks on several areas of their bodies, including the abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms or lower back. In addition, a good diet, sun protection and regular exercise can usually minimize this problem, but a combination of genetic tendencies and life experiences will often cause some of these changes in our skin.