Stretch Marks: Causes, Treatments And Management

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a common skin concern caused by the stretching of the skin. They often appear as parallel lines of red, purple, or white marks and are most commonly found on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, and thighs.

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks or striae, are white or pink coloured linear scars that develop on the skin when it gets stretched beyond its normal elasticity, causing the supportive collagen and elastin beneath to rupture. The consequent healing process results in the appearance of stretch marks. Stretch marks commonly form on the shoulders, abdomen, calves, hips and thighs. They might reduce gradually, but do not disappear completely.

What Causes Stretch Marks On Body?

Here are some common reasons for stretch marks on body

  • Use of corticosteroid creams

  • Certain medical conditions like Cushing’s syndrome

  • Excessive bodybuilding

  • Hormonal changes

  • Rapid weight gain or loss

  • Pregnancy

  • Genetic predisposition

Diagnosis

Step
Examination

Visual examination of the affected areas.

Step
Assessment

Assessment of medical history and potential contributing factors.

Step
Use of imaging techniques

Possible use of imaging techniques for more severe cases.

Are you at Risk?

  • Emotional distress and impact on self-esteem.

  • Potential complications from treatments, such as skin irritation or scarring.

  • Not all treatments are effective for all skin types or stretch mark severities.

Prevention and Management

Weight Management

Maintain a healthy weight and avoid rapid weight gain or loss.

Hydration

Keep the skin hydrated with moisturisers.

Use Creams

Use creams containing hyaluronic acid or retinoids.

Exercise

Regular exercise to improve skin elasticity.

Monitor Hormonal Levels

Monitor hormonal levels and consult with a healthcare provider if necessary.

Treatment Options

Laser Skin Resurfacing

This uses laser energy to stimulate collagen production and improve the texture and colour of stretch marks.

Microneedling Radiofrequency

This treatment involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production.

Topical Treatments

These include creams and ointments containing ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid to improve the appearance of stretch marks.

Treatments Explained

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Microneedling Radiofrequency

Prognosis

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  • Early treatment can improve the appearance of stretch marks.
  • Complete removal of stretch marks is unlikely, but significant improvement is possible.
  • Consistent and long-term treatment may be necessary for best results.
Reviewed by Dr. Debatri Datta
MBBS: RG Kar Medical College Kolkata, West Bengal University of Health Sciences
Written by : Dr. Debatri Datta
Updated on: July 10, 2024