The majority of people in the world will develop stretch marks on their bodies at some point or another. Stretch marks can come in many different colors and forms, and they can appear in many different places on the body.
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are a type of scarring that can appear on the body. This scarring is caused when the dermis, or lower layer of skin, stretches too rapidly and physically tears. This tearing creates wavy, thick lines on the skin that are visible on the outside of the body. These lines range in color from white or gray to light pink.
Where do stretch marks appear?
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body, including the breasts, hips, thighs, stomach, lower back, upper arms, and shoulders. Depending on what body parts are experiencing rapid growth or change, stretch marks can appear in many different places.
Are stretch marks permanent?
Any source that claims stretch marks can be completely removed is ultimately exaggerating. While the appearance of stretch marks can be lessened, they are not ultimately "removable." The best way to avoid stretch marks is to practice prevention. There are many creams and lotions available that claim to help prevent their onset in the event of rapid weight gain or pregnancy.
What causes stretch marks?
Stretch marks come with an entire slew of causes. You already know that stretch marks are caused by the literal stretching of the skin, but you may not be aware of all the situations that can cause this to happen.
- Gaining Weight
During rapid or substantial weight gain, stretch marks can appear. Stretch marks not only affect those who gain weight in the form of fat, but they can also affect weightlifters.
- Puberty
Because the body goes through rapid growth spurts during adolescence, young people are more susceptible to developing stretch marks than any other age group.
- Becoming Pregnant
The majority of pregnant women will develop stretch marks by the time their pregnancy has completed. Both hormonal factors as well as the obvious stretching of the skin play important roles.
- Diseases and Illnesses
Diseases such as illnesses of the adrenal gland and Cushing's syndrome can cause stretch marks. Genetic disorders, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Marfan syndrome are also among the many conditions that can also cause it.
- Medication
Lastly, there are a wide range of medicines that can cause stretch marks. Frequent systemic/oral steroid and corticosteroid use are notorious for being the culprits to stretch marks. Check with your doctor before taking any sort of steroid treatment if you are concerned about developing stretch marks.
