- What are stretch marks?
- What do stretch marks look like?
- Where do stretch marks occur?
- Who gets stretch marks?
- What causes stretch marks?
- What treatments can be used on stretch marks?
- How can stretch marks be prevented?
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are the result from damage to the layer of the skin called the dermis due to a breakdown of collagen causing a loss of support within the dermis.
What do stretch marks look like?
The marks appear as slightly raised lines or stripes along the skin and can be purple, red or silvery in color. They often are dark at first and fade over time as they also flatten out.
Where do stretch marks occur?
Stretch marks typically occur around the abdomen, breasts, legs and buttocks but can also appear on the arms and back.
Who gets stretch marks?
Men as well as women get stretch marks and they can appear as early as during adolescence.
What causes stretch marks?
Pregnancy, growth spurts during adolescence, drastic fluctuations in weight, heavy or long term usage of corticosteroids and body altering sports (i.e. weightlifting) can all cause stretch marks. They are also a symptom of Cushing’s syndrome which is a condition cause by too many steroid hormones.
What treatments can be used on stretch marks?
Depending on the cause and severity of the stretch marks, several different options are available. Using various creams, oils and lotions to keep the skin moist and supple is the easiest and most basic. Other options include chemical peels, laser surgery and microdermabrasion and are typically used for more serious stretch marks.
How can stretch marks be prevented?
Unfortunately, they cannot be prevented but can be managed and possibly even minimized by keeping the area(s) well moisturized. Massaging the oil, cream, etc. will also help promote circulation to the affected area.
