Stretch marks are the streaks or lines on the skin. They do not harm your overall health. They, like other scars, can be permanent, but they can also change and dissolve over time.
Usually, stretch marks do not need to be treated. They frequently diminish with or without therapy over time. They may never totally vanish.
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth says that stretch marks from pregnancy, for example, in most of the cases vanish 6 months after delivery.
Stretch marks are most commonly found on the thighs, abdomens, and female breasts, according to the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. Furthermore, early stretch marks heal faster than later ones.
What Causes Stretch Marks
Stretch marks typically appear as thin, long streaks on the skin. They often start as red or purple lines before gradually fading into a lighter colour. While they can occur on various parts of the body, they are most commonly found on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and breasts. So, what causes these marks to form?
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Rapid Weight Gain or Loss
“One of the primary causes of stretch marks is rapid changes in body weight. When the skin is stretched beyond its limits due to sudden weight gain, such as during pregnancy, or rapid weight loss, the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin can become damaged, leading to the formation of stretch marks,” said Dr Navya Handa, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Laser Surgeon, Primus Super Speciality Hospital.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a significant trigger for stretch marks. As the baby grows inside the womb, the skin of the abdomen stretches to accommodate the developing foetus. This stretching can result in the formation of stretch marks.
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Puberty
During puberty, adolescents often experience growth spurts. This rapid growth can cause the skin to stretch quickly, leading to the appearance of stretch marks.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during puberty or due to certain medical conditions, can weaken the skin's elasticity, making it more prone to stretch marks.
Can Stretch Marks Be Removed or Reduced?
While it is challenging to completely erase stretch marks, several methods can help reduce their appearance:
Dr Handa stated, "Regularly moisturising your skin can help improve its elasticity and make it more resistant to stretching." Look for moisturisers that have components that enhance skin moisture, such as cocoa butter, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid."
Prescription Medications
Dermatologists can prescribe stronger creams or ointments, such as tretinoin, to promote collagen production and fade stretch marks.
Laser Therapy
According to Dr Hnada, laser treatments, such as fractional laser therapy, can stimulate collagen production and reduce the redness and texture of stretch marks.
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It is important to keep in mind that stretch marks never disappear completely, there are effective strategies for reducing their visibility. The strategy that is ideal for you is determined by the severity of your stretch marks, your skin type, and your particular preferences. A dermatologist can assist you in determining the best treatment options for this common skin problem. Remember that it's important to accept your body as it is, and stretch marks are a normal part of many people's lives.