What are stretch marks and why do they occur in children and teens. How can stretch marks be treated or made less noticeable. Are stretch marks a normal part of puberty and growth.

What Are Stretch Marks and How Do They Form?

Stretch marks are fine lines that appear on the skin when it undergoes rapid stretching or expansion. They often occur during periods of significant growth or weight gain, such as puberty or pregnancy. But what exactly causes these marks to form?

The formation of stretch marks is closely tied to the skin’s elasticity and collagen production. Under normal circumstances, our skin is quite elastic and can accommodate gradual changes. However, when the skin is stretched too quickly, it disrupts the normal production of collagen – the primary protein responsible for maintaining skin structure and elasticity.

This disruption in collagen production leads to the formation of scar-like tissues, which we recognize as stretch marks. Initially, these marks may appear as reddish or purplish lines with a texture distinctly different from the surrounding skin. Over time, they often fade to a lighter color and become less noticeable.

The Appearance and Evolution of Stretch Marks

How do stretch marks change over time? When they first appear, stretch marks often have a reddish or purplish hue. They may feel slightly raised or indented compared to the surrounding skin. This initial appearance is due to the visibility of blood vessels through the stretched skin.

As time passes, the blood vessels contract, and the stretch marks typically fade to a lighter color, often becoming silvery or white. While they may become less noticeable, stretch marks rarely disappear completely without treatment.

Who Is Most Likely to Develop Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can affect people of all ages and body types, but certain groups are more prone to developing them. Understanding who is at higher risk can help individuals be more prepared and proactive in their skincare routines.

• Adolescents going through puberty
• Pregnant women
• Individuals experiencing rapid weight gain or loss
• Bodybuilders and athletes undergoing rapid muscle growth
• People using corticosteroid medications

Are stretch marks more common in females or males? While stretch marks can occur in both sexes, they are generally more common in females. This is partly due to hormonal differences and the fact that women tend to experience more significant body changes during puberty and pregnancy.

Stretch Marks in Adolescents

Why are teenagers particularly susceptible to stretch marks? The teenage years are characterized by rapid growth spurts and hormonal changes. During puberty, the body undergoes significant changes in a relatively short period, which can lead to the skin stretching beyond its normal capacity.

For girls, stretch marks often appear on the breasts, hips, thighs, and buttocks as these areas tend to grow rapidly during puberty. Boys may develop stretch marks on their shoulders, back, and arms, especially if they engage in activities that promote rapid muscle growth.

Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?

While it’s not always possible to prevent stretch marks entirely, there are steps that can be taken to minimize their occurrence and severity. Is it possible to reduce the likelihood of developing stretch marks?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can play a significant role in preventing stretch marks. This includes:

1. Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep skin elastic and supple.
2. Eating a balanced diet: Consuming foods rich in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and protein can support skin health.
3. Maintaining a stable weight: Avoiding rapid weight gain or loss can reduce skin stretching.
4. Regular exercise: This helps maintain skin elasticity and overall health.
5. Using moisturizers: Keeping skin well-hydrated may help improve its elasticity.

However, it’s important to note that some factors contributing to stretch marks, such as genetics and hormonal changes during puberty, are beyond individual control.

Treatment Options for Stretch Marks

While stretch marks often fade naturally over time, some individuals may seek treatment to accelerate this process or further reduce their appearance. What are the most effective treatments for stretch marks?

It’s important to note that most treatments are more effective on newer stretch marks, as older ones are more challenging to treat. Some common treatment options include:

• Topical treatments: Creams and ointments containing retinoids, hyaluronic acid, or centella asiatica
• Microdermabrasion: A minimally invasive procedure that removes the top layer of skin
• Laser therapy: Various types of lasers can be used to stimulate collagen production and reduce redness
• Chemical peels: These can improve skin texture and stimulate new skin growth
• Microneedling: A procedure that creates tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production

Are these treatments suitable for teenagers? Most dermatologists and plastic surgeons do not recommend intensive treatments for teenagers, as their bodies are still growing and developing. New stretch marks may continue to appear, and existing ones often fade naturally over time.

The Role of Over-the-Counter Products

Many over-the-counter creams and lotions claim to reduce or eliminate stretch marks. Do these products really work? While some may help improve skin hydration and elasticity, most are not scientifically proven to significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Products containing ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, or vitamin E are often marketed for stretch mark prevention and treatment. While these can help keep skin moisturized and may improve its overall appearance, they are unlikely to completely prevent or eliminate stretch marks.

Coping with Stretch Marks: Psychological Impact and Self-Image

For many individuals, particularly adolescents, stretch marks can have a significant impact on self-esteem and body image. How can one cope with the emotional aspects of having stretch marks?

It’s crucial to understand that stretch marks are a normal part of growth and development for many people. Accepting them as a natural part of one’s body can be an important step in maintaining a positive self-image. Here are some strategies for coping:

• Education: Understanding that stretch marks are common and not a sign of poor health or hygiene
• Positive self-talk: Focusing on the body’s strengths and capabilities rather than perceived flaws
• Open communication: Talking about concerns with trusted friends, family members, or a counselor
• Body positivity: Engaging with body-positive media and communities
• Self-care: Practicing self-care routines that promote overall well-being and self-confidence

Remember, everyone’s body is unique, and stretch marks are just one of the many ways our bodies tell the story of our growth and experiences.

Practical Tips for Making Stretch Marks Less Noticeable

For those who wish to minimize the appearance of their stretch marks, there are several practical strategies that can be employed. How can one reduce the visibility of stretch marks without resorting to medical treatments?

1. Self-tanners: These can help even out skin tone and make stretch marks less noticeable. However, regular tanning or tanning beds should be avoided as they can make stretch marks more prominent and increase skin damage risks.
2. Body makeup: Using makeup matched to your skin tone can temporarily cover stretch marks.
3. Strategic clothing choices: Wearing clothing that provides more coverage in areas with stretch marks can help conceal them. For example, board shorts or rash guards can be useful for swimming.
4. Moisturizing: Regular application of moisturizer can improve skin texture and may make stretch marks less noticeable.
5. Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation can help improve skin texture and promote cell turnover, potentially reducing the appearance of stretch marks over time.

It’s important to remember that these are temporary solutions and won’t eliminate stretch marks. The most effective approach is often a combination of acceptance, self-care, and these practical strategies.

The Importance of Sun Protection

Why is sun protection particularly important for areas with stretch marks? Stretch marks, especially newer ones, can be more susceptible to sun damage. Excessive sun exposure can make them more noticeable and potentially slow down the natural fading process.

To protect stretch marks from sun damage:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating
• Consider using clothing with UV protection for extended sun exposure
• Limit sun exposure during peak hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm)

When to Seek Professional Help for Stretch Marks

While stretch marks are generally harmless and don’t require medical attention, there are instances where consulting a healthcare professional might be beneficial. When should one consider seeking medical advice about stretch marks?

Consider consulting a dermatologist or healthcare provider if:

• Stretch marks appear without an obvious cause (like rapid growth or weight gain)
• They are accompanied by other skin changes or symptoms
• They cause significant distress or impact quality of life
• There’s a desire to explore medical treatment options (for adults)

For teenagers, it’s generally recommended to wait until growth has stabilized before considering any intensive treatments. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on the most appropriate course of action based on individual circumstances.

The Role of Dermatologists in Stretch Mark Management

How can a dermatologist help with stretch marks? Dermatologists are specialists in skin health and can provide expert advice on managing stretch marks. They can:

1. Assess the stretch marks and determine their cause
2. Recommend appropriate treatments based on the individual’s age, skin type, and severity of stretch marks
3. Perform or prescribe more intensive treatments if necessary
4. Provide guidance on skincare routines and products that may help improve skin health
5. Address any concerns about skin health and body image

Remember, while dermatologists can offer valuable insights and treatments, they often advise patience for younger individuals, as many stretch marks will fade significantly with time.

Future Developments in Stretch Mark Treatment

As medical technology advances, new treatments for stretch marks are continually being researched and developed. What are some promising areas of research in stretch mark treatment?

Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Advanced laser therapies: New types of lasers that can more effectively stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration
• Stem cell treatments: Exploring the use of stem cells to promote skin healing and regeneration
• Improved topical formulations: Developing more effective creams and serums that can penetrate deeper into the skin
• Combination therapies: Investigating how different treatments can be combined for better results
• Preventative strategies: Researching ways to maintain skin elasticity during periods of rapid growth

While these developments are exciting, it’s important to approach new treatments with caution, especially for younger individuals. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new or experimental treatments.

The Importance of Ongoing Research

Why is continued research into stretch marks important? Despite being a common skin condition, there’s still much to learn about the formation and treatment of stretch marks. Ongoing research can lead to:

1. Better understanding of the biological mechanisms behind stretch mark formation
2. More effective prevention strategies
3. Improved treatment options for those who wish to reduce the appearance of stretch marks
4. Greater insight into the psychological impact of stretch marks and how to address it
5. Development of personalized approaches based on individual factors like skin type and genetic predisposition

As our understanding of skin biology and regeneration improves, so too will our ability to address concerns related to stretch marks and other skin conditions.

Stretch Marks (for Teens) – Nemours KidsHealth

en español: Estrías

Reviewed by: Melanie L. Pitone, MD

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are fine lines in the skin that happen when quick growth or weight gain stretches the skin (like during puberty). Skin is usually fairly stretchy, but when it’s overstretched, the normal production of collagen (the major protein that makes up the tissue in skin) is disrupted. As a result, the skin can develop stretch marks.

At first, stretch marks may show up as reddish or purplish lines that can look indented and have a different texture from the skin around them. Stretch marks often turn lighter and almost disappear over time.

Who Gets Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are a normal part of puberty for most people. People who are obese often have stretch marks. Bodybuilders can get stretch marks because of the quick body changes that can come with bodybuilding. People who use steroid-containing skin creams or ointments (such as hydrocortisone) for more than a few weeks also may get stretch marks. So might people who have to take high doses of oral corticosteroids for months or longer.

How Can I Get My Stretch Marks to Go Away?

A
dermatologistor plastic surgeon are doctors who can help treat stretch marks. They specialize in caring for the skin. To reduce the appearance of stretch marks, they might use prescription creams, microdermabrasion, and laser treatment. But doctors don’t usually recommended these for teens because they’re still growing. So new stretch marks might appear and existing ones will probably fade a bit over time. Also, these treatments can be expensive and usually are not covered by insurance.

How Can I Make Stretch Marks Less Noticeable?

Here are some things to consider if you want to make stretch marks less noticeable:

• Some people find that sunless self-tanners can help cover up stretch marks. This isn’t true with regular tanning or tanning beds, though: Stretch marks are less likely to tan so may end up looking more obvious. Plus, the sun and tanning beds do more harm than good when it comes to the long-term health of your skin.
• Try using body makeup matched to your skin tone to cover stretch marks.
• Wear board shorts or rash guards. Bathing suits with more coverage work well for hiding stretch marks on the buttocks, upper thighs, and chest.

Many creams and other skin products claim to get rid of stretch marks, but the truth is that most don’t work and are costly. Usually, the best thing to do is be patient because stretch marks often fade with time. If they still bother you when you’re an adult, you can ask your doctor or see a specialist for treatment.

Reviewed by: Melanie L. Pitone, MD

Date reviewed: November 2020

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Stretch Marks – Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

Home | Patients and Families | Health Library | Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a normal part of puberty for most girls and guys. When a person grows or gains weight really quickly (like during puberty), that person may get fine lines on the body called stretch marks.

Stretch marks happen when the skin is pulled by rapid growth or stretching. Although the skin is usually fairly elastic, when it’s overstretched, the normal production of collagen (the major protein that makes up the connective tissue in your skin) is disrupted. As a result, scars called stretch marks may form.

If you’re noticing stretch marks on your body, you’re not alone. Most girls and women have them, usually on their breasts, thighs, hips, and butt. Many women get them during pregnancy. Stretch marks are more common in girls, but guys can get them, too.

People who are obese often have stretch marks. Bodybuilders are prone to getting stretch marks because of the rapid body changes that can go with bodybuilding. People who use steroid-containing skin creams or ointments (such as hydrocortisone) for more than a few weeks may also get stretch marks. So might people who have to take high doses of oral corticosteroids for months or longer.

At first, stretch marks may show up as reddish or purplish lines that can look indented and have a different texture from the skin around them. Stretch marks often turn lighter and almost disappear over time.

Making Them Less Noticeable

Here are some things to consider if you want to make stretch marks less noticeable:

• Some people find that sunless self-tanners can help cover up stretch marks. This isn’t true with regular tanning or tanning beds, though: Stretch marks are less likely to tan so may end up looking more obvious. Plus, the sun and tanning beds do more harm than good when it comes to the long-term health of your skin.
• Try using body makeup matched to the tone of your skin to cover stretch marks. Although some manufacturers make these cover-up products water-resistant, makeup may not be the best solution if you’ll be spending a lot of time in the water.
• Wear board shorts or rash guards. Bathing suits with more coverage are popular with many athletes because they protect against the sun and don’t ride up when a person moves. But these suit styles also work well for hiding stretch marks on the buttocks, upper thighs and chest.

Tons of creams and other skin products on the market claim to get rid of stretch marks, but the truth is that most don’t work and are costly.

You can’t make stretch marks go away completely without the help of a

dermatologist
 or plastic surgeon. These doctors may use one of many types of treatments — from actual surgery to techniques like microdermabrasion and laser treatment — to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

These techniques are expensive and are not usually covered by insurance. Doctors don’t usually recommended them for teens because they’re not done growing so new stretch marks might appear and existing ones will probably lessen over time.

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

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Stretch marks – the whole truth – articles from the specialists of the clinic “Mother and Child”

Brezgunova Svetlana Leonidovna

Obstetrician-gynecologist

Clinic “Mother and Child” Togliatti

What is it

Stretch marks are also called striae. They appear in any area of ​​the body, but more often occur in those places where there is a large amount of fat. The most common locations are chest, abdomen, underarms, shoulders, hips, back and buttocks.

Stretch marks look like stripes on the skin, and over time their color changes. “Fresh” stretch marks are pinkish-red in color, the skin on them is slightly convex. Gradually, the striae increase in length and width, become bluish-violet, and eventually become discolored. This happens because at first there are still blood vessels inside the striae, which is why initially the stretch marks have such a bright color. Then the blood supply at the site of the stretch marks stops, the vessels become empty, the resulting skin defect is filled with connective tissue and the stretch marks become white. Since there is no pigment in the connective tissue, even under the influence of sunlight, the stretch marks remain white. Moreover, against the background of tanned skin, they become more noticeable.

Why they occur

It seems that the reason for the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy is clear at first glance: the expectant mother’s belly grows, the skin stretches, and stretch marks form. Why, then, do they not occur in all expectant mothers? And is their appearance associated with weight gain? After all, it has been noticed, for example, that the likelihood of stretch marks does not depend on the size of the abdomen during pregnancy.

Stretch marks may appear in a woman with a small tummy, while a woman expecting twins will bypass this problem.

Why is this happening? Several factors come into play here. Yes, indeed, one of the reasons for the appearance of stretch marks is weight gain, but it is not so much the number of kilograms gained that is important, but how quickly a woman gained them: the faster the expectant mother gains weight, the higher the risk of stretch marks. That is why even with a small increase in weight, stretch marks can appear. The second reason for stretch marks is hormonal imbalance. During pregnancy, the amount of estrogen and cortisol decreases, resulting in a violation of the synthesis of skin and connective tissue proteins – collagen and elastin. Namely, with the help of these proteins, our skin can stretch well and restore its elasticity.

If there is not enough collagen and elastin, then the skin becomes brittle and thins faster, eventually, it breaks in some areas, and then scar connective tissue is formed in the places of tears .

And here is how the body of the expectant mother will behave during pregnancy: whether there will be sharp jumps in weight and hormonal imbalance (which means that stretch marks will appear or not, it is impossible to predict).

What to do?

Let’s just say that There is no 100% effective treatment for and prevention of stretch marks. For example, most creams, lotions, gels for the prevention of stretch marks simply contain moisturizing ingredients and help soften the skin, but do not affect the balance of hormones. Therefore, these remedies cannot prevent the appearance of stretch marks if hormonal disorders have occurred. Yes, and after childbirth, various laser procedures, peelings and resurfacing will not get rid of stretch marks at all, they will simply make them more invisible.

But this does not mean that we should give up and do nothing. You can do just a lot of things: even if you do not achieve a 100% effect, there will still be benefits.

– Monitor the nutrition of the and avoid sudden weight fluctuations. Do not forget to eat protein foods – protein, together with zinc and vitamin C, stimulates the production of collagen, which gives the skin elasticity. If you don’t feel like meat yet, include fish, dairy products and legumes in your diet – these are also sources of healthy protein.

– Avoid sweets – sugar slows down collagen renewal, the skin loses elasticity and water, becomes dry, sluggish, its elasticity decreases.

– From the first days of pregnancy constantly nourish and moisturize the skin . To do this, use creams, gels, lotions with collagen, elastin, as well as vitamins C and E . The main thing is that these drugs must be approved for use during pregnancy. Before you buy this or that product, carefully read the instructions and the composition of the drug. Find out the mechanism of action of biologically active substances of a cosmetic product from a sales assistant. If you still have doubts, consult with your obstetrician-gynecologist. Look into your wallet and make a choice.

– If finances allow, do salon procedures for body moisturizing that are allowed during pregnancy (seaweed wraps, for example), if not, limit yourself to ordinary skin moisturizing, it is also effective.

– Regularly take a contrast shower : it tones and firms the skin, and the problem areas receive the blood flow they need. You can massage individual parts of the body alternately with cold and warm jets. Just don’t aim the jet directly at your stomach.

– After showering, don’t dry your body, just pat it dry with a towel. You can do light pinching self-massage using moisturizing creams or natural vegetable oils (such as olive or linseed). Massage promotes the removal of excess fluid and activates the work of blood vessels – they quickly carry nutrients throughout the body. Important: when massaging the abdomen and chest, massage only the sides, thighs and legs.

– Swim : the contrast of water and air temperature, active physical activity also contribute to the prevention of stretch marks.

– During pregnancy , wear special bras, they will support the enlarged breasts and will not allow the skin to overstretch.

Even if stretch marks appear, don’t get upset. It has been noticed that if you immediately start a set of preventive measures (moisturizing the skin, proper nutrition, water procedures), then often stretch marks do not spread further. And if you start prevention from the first days of pregnancy, they may not appear at all.

REMINDER for moms

Start attacking stretch marks as early as possible: the younger they are, the less money and time it will take to eliminate them.

1. Watch your diet, try not to gain weight suddenly.
2. Daily moisturize and nourish the skin, not only the abdomen and chest, but also the thighs, buttocks, legs.
3. Lead an active lifestyle: walk in the fresh air, play sports, swim.
4. Take a contrast shower, do self-massage.
5. Wear the right underwear: a maternity bra is especially necessary for expectant mothers with large breasts

Note:

Stretch marks cannot be predicted. Even if during the last pregnancy there were no or, on the contrary, there were stretch marks, then there is no guarantee that the situation will repeat itself in the next pregnancy

You can make a composition for stretch marks yourself.

Here are the oils that will suit you:

• Jojoba oil is the most effective remedy: it is used for the prevention and elimination of skin stretch marks during and after pregnancy, as well as for weight gain and sudden weight loss.
• Essential oil of rosewood – helps to increase skin elasticity, also helps to dissolve small scars.
• Almond oil – especially effective for the care of areas of the body where skin elasticity is reduced.
• Grape seed oil – has a strong regenerating effect, improves skin elasticity.
• Peach oil – has a regenerating, softening effect on the skin, restores elasticity, rejuvenates sagging skin.

You can use any combination of these oils, such as jojoba + almond oil, or jojoba + grape seed oil.

Before using any oil, read the instructions, pay attention to contraindications. Try the oil or formulation on a small area of ​​your skin and see how it reacts throughout the day. If you experience discomfort or allergies, discard this remedy.

Make an appointment

to the doctor – Brezgunova Svetlana Leonidovna

Clinic “Mother and Child” Tolyatti

PregnancyPregnancy managementGynecologyChildren’s hospitalPregnancy diaryOperative childbirthPregnancy planningPreparation for operative childbirthPreparation for partner childbirthBaby care programMom’s school programsSchedule of childbirthPhysiological pregnancyFitness for pregnant women

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Postpartum Stretch Marks – How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks

Postpartum Stretch Marks are small, indented streaks on the skin that appear most often in the last trimester when the belly expands for a rapidly growing baby. They can occur not only on the abdomen, but also on the buttocks, chest and hips.

Why stretch marks appear on the abdomen after childbirth

During pregnancy, changes occur in the elastic support tissue that lies just under the skin. This is what causes stretch marks. The color of the stripes depends on the color of the skin and varies from pale pink to dark brown.

The main causes of stretch marks:

• Rapid weight gain. During pregnancy, a woman gradually gains from 7 to 21 kg. With too rapid weight gain, the skin does not have time to grow and breaks, leaving stretch marks;
• Multiple pregnancy. During pregnancy with twins, the skin stretches to the limit, which leads to scarring;
• Large child. A large baby is one of the reasons for the rapid and non-gradual weight gain mentioned earlier;
• Polyhydramnios. Excess amniotic fluid not only causes stretch marks, but is also an alarming symptom for the doctor;
• Heredity. If your mother had stretch marks, then most likely you will also have them, this is influenced by genetic heredity;
• Skin color. Black women are less prone to stretch marks. However, they are much less noticeable;
• Lack of nutrition and moisture. The better you eat and the more hydrated your skin, the less chance of stretch marks.

Our skin itself is quite elastic, but some of the drastic changes that occur during pregnancy cause stretch marks. Over time, after childbirth, they may disappear or become less noticeable.

Can stretch marks be avoided?

Most women apply cosmetic products specifically designed for this purpose to prevent the development of stretch marks. For pregnant women, lotions, creams or body gels are suitable. The elasticity of the skin is increased by chamomile extract, tea tree oil, horse chestnut included in the cream. Creams containing vitamin A, E, C, collagen or elastin will be useful. Genetic predisposition to stretch marks plays a big role. If your grandmother and mother had stretch marks, most likely they are guaranteed to you. But even if cosmetics do not help in avoiding stretch marks, they will probably make them not so big. And this means that it will be much easier to get rid of stretch marks. By themselves, of course, they will not disappear, but bearing, mesotherapy, promises, and maybe even surgery help to make them less noticeable.

Prevention is the best treatment

Prevention is the best way to prevent stretch marks on your abdomen after childbirth. After all, the problem is easier to prevent than to deal with it later.

Prenatal bandage gives a good effect. This device perfectly supports the anterior abdominal wall, maintains the normal position of the fetus and reduces the load on the spine of the pregnant woman.

The bandage should be worn from the 20th week of pregnancy and should only be removed at night. After childbirth (up to 6 weeks), a postpartum bandage will have a positive effect. Such a simple device will help you prevent the appearance of stretch marks and facilitate the pregnancy itself. Do not forget about the bra, which should only be made from natural fabrics.

Clinic of plastic surgery in Kazan Maya Clinic provides a full range of services to restore the health and beauty of a woman after childbirth.

Non-radical methods in the fight against stretch marks

It should be understood that such methods will not completely get rid of these cosmetic defects, but they can make stretch marks less noticeable.

• Peels – the compositions of which can be prepared independently or purchased ready-made. Stretch marks are well removed with coffee or sea salt peels. This procedure smoothes the skin, stimulates blood circulation and collagen synthesis;
• Massage with essential oils – this procedure is suitable for both prevention and reduction of defects;
• Rubbing problem areas with a hard towel or washcloth.