Stretch marks, also known medically as “striae”, are lines that look like scars on the skin. These lines, which are slightly discolored and sunken, can appear anywhere on the body. They are not usually harmful but can make people uncomfortable about their skin. Here are some facts about scars.
Scars
This is caused by a tear in the elastic fibres of the skin. This may happen during pregnancy or other circumstances. These times cause the skin to stretch more quickly than usual. Scars-like marks appear across the body. These can be pink, red or purple streaks.
How Can You Get Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are caused by fat storage. Stretch marks cannot be seen on your face, hands, and feet. These lines may appear on the stomach, hips and thighs, breasts as well as your lower back and buttocks. The appearance of stretch marks can also be affected by genetics. If a mother has stretch marks on her thighs, it is possible that the child will have the same marks.
Anyone can have stretch marks
It has been shown that between 50-90% of pregnant women develop stretch marks, but it is also possible for men to get them. Experts believe stretch marks are caused by pregnancy hormones.
Stretch Marks Don’t Go Away
Like any other scar on your skin, stretch marks can last forever. These marks will fade over time and become lighter than the rest.
Weight Gain May Cause Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are more common the more weight you gain, and the faster you do it. Stretch marks can also be caused by bodybuilders who gain muscle mass quickly.
You May Also Get Stretch Marks from Medications
You may experience weight gain or swelling from certain medications. These swellings can also cause stretch marks. Birth control pills and corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation in certain body parts, can cause stretch marks.
Stretch Marks Can Be Caused by Medical Conditions
Stretch marks can also be caused by medical conditions that cause you to gain weight. Some conditions can also cause skin changes, like Marfan Syndrome, Cushing’s Disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
You Can’t Prevent Stretch Marks
Even though home remedies are often praised for their ability to remove stretch marks, or prevent them from ever occurring, there is no way to completely avoid them. These marks are scars and you cannot prevent them by gaining or losing weight.
