Stretch Marks

Known medically as striae, stretch marks are the visible evidence that the skin's building blocks (collagen and elastin) could not keep up with its need for growth.  Stretch marks are formed when the skin stretches at a rate that cannot be sustained by its elasticity. They may appear after rapid weight gain, spurts of growth, and pregnancy.

The development of body contours, such as breasts or the bulking up of muscles, as seen in weight lifters, can also cause stretch marks, Anything that increases the body's cortisone levels, as is the case during puberty, obesity, weight gain, the injection of cortisone medications, or even the application of potent cortisone creams will increase the likelihood of stretch marks. Stretch marks initially appear as red or purple lines of varying lengths and widths. Women are more prone to stretch marks than men, and the marks usually appear on the breasts, the lower abdomen, the buttocks, and thighs. Men tend to get stretch marks only on the buttocks and outer thighs.

To get rid of stretch marks, care should be taken to avoid unnecessary and prolonged use of potent cortisone skin preparations which weaken the skin and predispose it to stretch marks. Excessive weight fluctuations and use of muscle building steroids during physical training should also be avoided.

Stretch marks are unsightly and a cosmetic solution is commonly sought. To date, this condition has been difficult to treat. Vitamin E oil, aloe vera, and similar agents do not prevent or reverse this problem, and allergic reactions to these agents are common. Many techniques currently being used to reduce or eliminate stretch marks are not yet refined and require further exploration and research.

Stretch Marks Treatment

The regular use of tretinoin in high doses has provided the first effective treatment for this condition. Although, lasers, such as the Ultrapulse carbon dioxide laser or the pulse dye lasers, are beginning to make some inroads into the therapeutic options for stretch marks.