Stretch Marks

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are a common skin condition characterised by visible lines or streaks that appear on the skin’s surface. They often have a different colour or texture than the surrounding skin. Stretch marks are extremely common, affecting over 70% of the population. There are two types of stretch marks – striae rubra (red or new stretch marks) and striae alba (white or old stretch marks).

What causes stretch marks?

Stretch marks, as the name suggests, are due to stretching of the skin, which results in altered structural support in the deeper layers of the skin. Microscopic studies of stretch marks show alteration in collagen and diminished elastin, as well as swelling. Early stretch marks exhibit an increase in the number of blood vessels and inflammation, resulting in pink-purple discolouration.

What do stretch marks look like?

The first signs of stretch marks are pink to purple lines usually running crosswise on the trunk and lengthwise along the limb. Early stretch marks may be itchy and will lighten and develop a pale, wrinkled appearance over time known as striae alba. Stretch marks most commonly occur on the abdomen, inner arms, back and breast areas. Stretch marks may also develop in the groin and armpits if high-strength steroid creams are inappropriately used in these areas.

What other conditions lead to stretch marks?

Puberty and weight gain: Weight lifters often develop stretch marks on the arms. In puberty, stretch marks may occur on the back, abdominal areas and breasts.
Pregnancy: Stretch marks most commonly develop in the third trimester of pregnancy. This is thought to be caused by hormonal changes and weight gain associated with pregnancy.
Medications: Corticosteroid creams, ointments or tablets may cause stretch marks if used inappropriately and without dermatologist supervision.
Diseases: Cushing’s syndrome, Marfan’s syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can predispose a person to developing stretch marks.

How are stretch marks treated?

Stretch marks are a cosmetic problem and treatment is optional. The majority of stretch marks will fade over time. Early red stretch marks respond better to treatment than older, white stretch marks but no treatment will remove stretch marks completely.

Treatments

Vitamin A creams such as tretinoin can be combined with laser treatments to treat stretch marks.
Fractional non-ablative lasers can improve early stretch marks. At best, this treatment will help to blend the affected and unaffected areas, potentially making them less visible. Three to five treatments are needed for best results.
Exilis Skin Tightening: This device stimulates collagen within the dermal layer to tighten and smooth the surface of the skin.
Radiofrequency Skin Tightening: Radiofrequency works by stimulating collagen within the skin to improve the extracellular matrix and skin structure.

How are stretch marks treated?

Treatments

Vitamin A creams such as tretinoin can be combined with laser treatments to treat stretch marks.
Fractional non-ablative lasers can improve early stretch marks. At best, this treatment will help to blend the affected and unaffected areas, potentially making them less visible. Three to five treatments are needed for best results.
Exilis Skin Tightening: This device stimulates collagen within the dermal layer to tighten and smooth the surface of the skin.
Radiofrequency Skin Tightening: Radiofrequency works by stimulating collagen within the skin to improve the extracellular matrix and skin structure.

How are stretch marks treated?

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are long, narrow streaks or lines that develop on the skin due to rapid stretching or shrinking of the skin. They often appear during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy, puberty, or significant weight changes.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are caused by the tearing of the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, when it is stretched too quickly. This leads to the formation of scar tissue, which appears as stretch marks. Common causes include pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, puberty, and certain medical conditions. Genetics and hormone levels also play a role in their development.

Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent stretch marks, you can reduce their likelihood by maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and using moisturizing creams that improve skin elasticity. During pregnancy, using specialized creams and oils can help minimize stretch marks.

What Treatments Are Available For Stretch Marks?

There are several treatments available for stretch marks, including laser therapy, microneedling, radiofrequency skin tightening (eg. Thermage Body), chemical peels and skin boosters. These treatments work by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin regeneration to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

How Effective Is Laser Therapy For Stretch Marks?

Laser therapy is an effective treatment for stretch marks, especially newer ones. It works by targeting the pigmented tissue and stimulating collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and improve skin texture. Most patients see significant improvements after a few sessions.

Stretch Marks

What are stretch marks?

What causes stretch marks?

What do stretch marks look like?

What other conditions lead to stretch marks?

How are stretch marks treated?

Treatments

How are stretch marks treated?

Treatments

How are stretch marks treated?

Frequently Asked Questions

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