Stretch marks, referred to by dermatologists as striae, are slightly indented, scar-like lines in the skin or disfiguring lesions/streaks. These marks permanently develop as a response to stretching of skin beyond its elasticity limit. Loss of skin’s glossy appearance, itchiness, and irritation are other signs of stretch marks. The marks mostly appear on the skin of the abdomen, hips, thighs, upper arms, brea-sts, lower back, and but-tocks.
Stretch marks are classified based on their appearance into the following categories. Learn more about them with Best Skin Doctor in Bangalore, Dr. Rasya Dixit:
- Striae rubrae- It is the early-stage, pink or red-colored stretch marks
- Striae albae- It is the mature, white, or silver-colored marks
- Striae nigra- It is the dark grey or black stretch marks, affecting dark-skinned people
- Striae caerulea- It is the dark blue or purple marks in dark-complexioned people
- Striae distensae- It is the general term for stretch marks that develop because of extensive stretching of the skin
- Striae gravidarum- It is the post-pregnancy marks resulting from rapid stretching of the skin to accommodate the baby and then shrinkage on child delivery
Striae atrophicans- It is the stretch marks associated with thinned skin, often developing from repeated use of corticosteroids.
Why Do Stretch Marks Appear?
The major factor causing stretch marks is breakdown of the skin’s elastin fiber and the collagen protein leads to the appearance of stretch marks. The elastin functions in skin stretching while collagen works to provide structure, strength, and support to the skin. The decline of elastin and collagen results in stretch marks.
What are the Treatment Options for Stretch Marks?
Getting stretch marks treated is optional. Generally, early-stage stretch marks respond better and quicker to treatment than mature stretch marks. No treatment helps stretch marks to completely disappear.
Dermatologist, Dr. Rasya Dixit, recommends these stretch marks treatments in Bangalore for early-stage stretch marks which include:
- Pulse dye laser- It is the most promising approach that works to reduce red discoloration by peeling off the skin with the heat of the laser.
- Fractional, non-ablative laser- It works to boost collagen production and help blend the affected/unaffected areas of the skin.
- Vitamin A- based/tret-inoin creams- These are often used in combination with laser therapy and help stimulate fresh collagen production, encourage skin cell turnover, and improve blood circulation in the affected area.
For mature stretch marks, mild to modest improvement is possible by boosting collagen growth and promoting cell turnover with the following treatments:
- Skin microneedling
- Fractional ablative and non-ablative lasers
- Prescription topicals containing Vitamin A and E.
Based on the stretch mark reasons causing it and type of stretch marks one is affected with, the dermatologist prescribes the treatment to manage the concern effectively.
How Can I Avoid Having Stretch Marks?
Do anything that guarantees to prevent stretch marks or reduce their risk of occurrence. These include:
- Adequate Hydration- Drink plenty of water daily and reduce dehydrating drinks like those having caffeine to keep the skin soft and less likely to develop stretch marks.
- Healthy Diet- Eat foods rich in zinc; Vitamins A, C, and D; and proteins.
- Proper Exercise Routine- Workouts can increase blood circulation and boost collagen production which keeps skin strong and elastic.
The Final Thoughts
Stretch marks can be found on anyone’s body, either in an early or mature stage. Though they are common occurrences and nothing to worry about, some people may be distressed with their appearance and that’s when they seek the treatment of stretch marks from a skin doctor. Dr. Rasya Dixit, stretch marks doctor in Bangalore addresses stretch marks by their type, their cause, and where they appear. By keeping skin healthy and collagen and elastin at optimum, stretch marks can be prevented.
FAQs on Stretch Marks Treatment
Who is affected by stretch marks?
Stretch marks can develop on anybody’s skin. Chances of having them are higher in pregnant women who are East Asian, Black, Hispanic, or South Asian; those who experience rapid weight change; bodybuilders and weightlifters; adolescents having growth spurts; those with a family history of stretch marks; those who have been taking prednisone for long term; and people suffering from Cushing’s Syndrome or Marfan Syndrome.
Are stretch marks contagious and serious?
No. Stretch marks do not pose a cause of concern or physical danger and are non-communicable to others with healthy skin.
Can stretch marks appear all of a sudden?
Typically, stretch marks develop over time when there is consistent stretching of the skin. Having said that, fast-track body changes can make stretch marks seem to appear suddenly. Before the marks appear, the skin appears red and gets itchy.
Can losing weight help stretch marks go away?
Weight loss can aid in reducing stretch marks' visibility but can’t help make them completely disappear. The stretch marks show up as silvery lines and with time they become less insignificant and blend with the individual’s skin tone.
How long does it take for stretch marks to fade?
Stretch marks fade out anywhere between 6-12 months and with the right treatment, they can fade faster.
Do stretch marks go away?
Over the years, stretch marks become less prominent or go away naturally. Stretch marks treatment may not be a necessity.
How can stretch marks be permanently removed?
There is no sure-shot method that could permanently remove stretch marks. Professional treatments must be preferred for maximal reduction in the appearance of stretch marks.
Is it normal for skinny individuals to have stretch marks?
Body type/fat percentage is not a factor that decides who will have stretch marks. Skinny people primarily get stretch marks from fluctuating hormones, growth spurts during puberty, and genetic predisposition.
What is the likely outcome of stretch marks?
Most stretch marks improve over time, turn pink from red-purple, and finally mature as white, wrinkled strips on the skin.
When to seek a dermatologist’s expertise for stretch marks?
Connect with dermatologist, Dr. Rasya Dixit if stretch marks have turned out to be bothersome. If they are causing emotional distress, personal efforts to remove them have gone in vain, or the stretch marks are associated with other unusual, noticeable symptoms. This includes unexplained weight gain, a general sense of unwellness, muscle weakness, and fatigue, and the skin that looks thin, easily bruises, and slowly heals after injury.
Meet her to receive effective stretch marks treatment in Bangalore today!
