Whether it's the result of pregnancy, sudden growth, or a natural sign of puberty, stretch marks can now be treated. Get rid of unwanted marks and flaunt your post-pregnancy belly with delight.
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are narrow streaks or lines that form on the skin due to rapid stretching or shrinking. This sudden change in skin tension causes the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin to tear, resulting in scar-like formations. These marks can vary in colour, from red and purple to pale or silvery, depending on how recent or mature they are. When stretch marks first appear, they are often red, purple, pink, or dark brown, depending on your skin tone. These early-stage marks may be slightly raised and can cause itching. Over time, they fade, becoming more subtle, and may feel slightly depressed when touched.
Understanding and managing stretch marks effectively
Rapid growth during adolescence can cause the skin to stretch quickly, leading to stretch marks.
The skin stretches as the body changes to accommodate a growing baby, often leading to stretch marks, especially in the third trimester.
The skin may stretch or shrink too fast when gaining or losing weight quickly, resulting in these marks.
Intense weight training that leads to quick muscle growth can also cause stretch marks.
Hormones play a significant role, and those with a family history of stretch marks may be more prone to them.
Stretch marks occur when the dermis, the thick middle layer of the skin, is overstretched. Due to the rapid stretching, collagen and elastin, the two main proteins responsible for skin elasticity, break down. Once these fibres rupture, the skin is unable to return to its original state, leading to the formation of stretch marks.
Individuals using corticosteroids for extended periods or those with conditions like Cushing's disease or Marfan syndrome are also at a higher risk of developing stretch marks.
Stretch marks appear as indented, stripe-like marks on the skin, often in areas prone to stretching.
Initially, they may appear red, purple, or dark brown, depending on skin tone. Over time, they fade to a lighter, silvery color.
Mature stretch marks often feel slightly depressed when touched, with a different texture than surrounding skin.
New stretch marks can cause mild itching as the skin stretches and adjusts.
Use stretch mark creams, lotions, and gels. While results vary, massaging products into fresh stretch marks over weeks can potentially help:
Note: Popular remedies like cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E lack scientific evidence for effectiveness.
More advanced treatments can make stretch marks less noticeable but won't remove them entirely: