Stretch marks, medically known as striae or striae distensae, are a form of dermal scarring that occurs when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. This sudden change causes collagen, elastin, and fibrin in the dermal layer to tear, leading to a healing process that transforms over time from fresh marks (pink/reddish brown) into older, faded ones (silver-white).
Types of Stretch Marks
- 1. Striae Rubra (Early Stage)
- Color: Pink, red or purple
- Texture: May feel slightly raised, itchy, or tender.
- Treatability: Easier to treat at this stage
- 2. Striae Alba (Late stage)
- Color: White or silvery
- Texture: Flat, indented, and less responsive to treatment but can be faded
- Focus of Treatment: Improving skin elasticity and texture
What causes Stretch Marks?
- Genetic: If parents or siblings have stretch marks, one may be more likely to have it.
- Pregnancy : due to rapid weight gain and hormonal changes.
- Puberty: growth spurts stretch the skin quickly.
- Obesity or rapid weight changes, body builders are prone to have stretch marks too as of the rapid weight changes.
- Bodybuilders are prone to have stretch marks.
- Medical conditions (e.g., Cushing’s Syndrome, Marfan syndrome).
- Long term use of steroid-containing creams or oral corticosteroid: weakens skin structure causing thinning of skin.
Prevention Tips
- Stay Hydrated: Helps to support skin elasticity.
- Moisturise regularly: Use creams with hyaluronic acid, shea butter or cocoa butter.
- Gradual Weight Management: avoid sudden weight gaining or weight losing.
- Balanced Diet: Diet that is rich in vitamins (A,C,E), zinc and protein.
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