Stretch marks: The facts
Stretch marks are a type of scarring that can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common in places where body fat is stored and/or where the skin is most likely to stretch (e.g. tummy, thighs and arms). Both women and men can experience stretch marks; they most commonly form during puberty, pregnancy and/or rapid weight gain.
The skin is made up of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous layer. Stretch marks form in the middle layer (the dermis), but eventually show at the surface of the skin. The dermis is made up of connective fibres called collagen and elastin which are responsible for keeping the skin supple and elastic. When the skin overstretches, these connective fibres can break and the dermis becomes less resilient; the skin then collapses causing stretch marks. This phenomenon could also be enhanced by hormonal disorders, leading to a misproduction of collagen and elastin.
The stretch marks appear on the surface as a pink colour which eventually results in scarring as the skin tries to repair itself. At first the skin on the affected area tends to look thin and very pink. In the next phase, the stretch marks grow longer and wider, and could take on a purple colour due to some blood pooling. As time passes, the initial raised and purple scarring gives way to fine white lines, with a slightly depressed appearance.
In order to reduce the likelihood of stretch marks forming in the first place, or to help reduce the appearance if you already have them, it's very important to keep the skin well moisturised and supple to ensure it remains as elastic as possible.
Is it true that only women are affected?
Whilst stretch marks tend to be associated with pregnancy and rapid weight gain, they can actually affect men, women and children at any time in life.
Can I do anything to prevent stretch marks?
Whilst there is no way to completely prevent stretch marks, a healthy lifestyle and diet will help, combined with applying specially designed products to help hydrate the skin, keeping it supple and soft.
Do they spread all over the body?
Once stretch marks have formed and the skin stabilises, they won't spread. However, if the stretching continues, new stretch marks may form.
Is surgery really the only option if you already have stretch marks?
Unfortunately stretch marks are extremely difficult to get rid of completely – and in severe cases some people may turn to surgery. There are however much less invasive things you can do to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks if you already have them.
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