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’s stretched beyond its normal elasticity. They often occur during periods of rapid growth or weight gain, such as puberty or pregnancy. But what exactly causes these marks to form?

The formation of stretch marks is closely linked to the skin’s collagen production. Collagen is the primary protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and structure. When the skin is overstretched, the normal production of collagen is disrupted, leading to the formation of scars known as stretch marks.

Initially, stretch marks may appear as reddish or purplish lines with a texture distinct from the surrounding skin. Over time, they often fade to a lighter color, sometimes becoming almost invisible. This color change is part of the natural healing process of the skin.

Who Is Most Likely to Develop Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are a common occurrence, affecting a wide range of individuals. However, certain groups are more prone to developing these marks:

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

Is there a genetic component to stretch mark formation? Research suggests that genetics may play a role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to stretch marks. Some people may be more prone to developing them due to inherited skin characteristics.

Stretch Marks in Teens: A Normal Part of Growth

For many teenagers, the appearance of stretch marks can be a source of concern. However, it’s important to understand that these marks are a normal part of puberty for most people. During this period of rapid growth, the skin is stretched to accommodate the body’s changes, often resulting in the formation of stretch marks.

Common areas for stretch marks in teens include:

• Thighs
• Hips
• Breasts (in girls)
• Arms
• Back

While stretch marks are more common in girls, boys can develop them too, particularly during growth spurts or if they engage in activities that promote rapid muscle growth.

Medical Treatments for Stretch Marks: Are They Effective?

Many individuals seek medical treatments to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. But how effective are these treatments, especially for teenagers?

Dermatologists and plastic surgeons can offer various treatment options, including:

• Prescription creams
• Microdermabrasion
• Laser treatments

However, these treatments are often not recommended for teenagers who are still growing. Why? The ongoing growth process may lead to the formation of new stretch marks, potentially negating the effects of treatment. Additionally, existing stretch marks often fade naturally over time during the teenage years.

It’s also worth noting that many of these treatments can be expensive and are typically not covered by insurance. This factor, combined with the potential for new stretch mark formation, makes medical treatments a less practical option for most teens.

Natural Ways to Minimize the Appearance of Stretch Marks

While medical treatments may not be the best option for teens, there are several natural methods that can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks:

1. Moisturize regularly: Keeping the skin well-hydrated can improve its elasticity and may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
2. Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins C, D, and E, as well as zinc and protein, can support skin health.
3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity.
4. Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves circulation, which can benefit skin health.
5. Massage the affected areas: Gently massaging stretch marks may help improve blood flow and break down scar tissue.

Do these natural methods guarantee the complete removal of stretch marks? While they may not eliminate stretch marks entirely, these strategies can contribute to overall skin health and potentially reduce the visibility of the marks over time.

Cosmetic Solutions: Covering and Camouflaging Stretch Marks

For those looking for immediate solutions to make stretch marks less noticeable, several cosmetic options are available:

• Sunless self-tanners: These products can help even out skin tone, making stretch marks less visible. However, it’s important to note that regular tanning or tanning beds are not effective and can potentially harm the skin.
• Body makeup: Using makeup matched to your skin tone can temporarily cover stretch marks.
• Strategic clothing choices: Wearing clothing that covers areas with stretch marks, such as board shorts or rash guards for swimming, can help conceal them.

When using any cosmetic products, it’s crucial to choose those that are suitable for your skin type and to follow application instructions carefully to avoid irritation.

The Effectiveness of Over-the-Counter Products

Many creams and lotions claim to remove or reduce stretch marks. Are these products worth trying? While some over-the-counter products may help improve the appearance of stretch marks, most are unlikely to eliminate them completely. Many of these products can be costly, and their effectiveness varies widely among individuals.

When considering over-the-counter treatments, look for products containing ingredients known to support skin health, such as:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Cocoa butter
• Vitamin E
• Aloe vera

Remember that consistency is key when using these products, and results may take time to become noticeable.

The Psychological Impact of Stretch Marks on Teens

The appearance of stretch marks can have a significant psychological impact on teenagers, affecting their self-esteem and body image. How can teens cope with these feelings?

• Education: Understanding that stretch marks are a normal part of growth can help alleviate concerns.
• Positive self-talk: Encouraging a positive body image and self-acceptance is crucial.
• Open communication: Talking with trusted friends, family members, or a counselor about concerns can provide emotional support.
• Focus on overall health: Emphasizing overall health and well-being rather than appearance can help shift perspective.

It’s important for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to address the emotional aspects of stretch marks, providing reassurance and support to teens who may be struggling with their appearance.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Stretch Marks

While stretch marks are generally harmless, there are instances when medical advice should be sought. When should a teen or parent consult a healthcare provider about stretch marks?

• If stretch marks appear without an apparent cause (such as rapid growth or weight gain)
• If stretch marks are accompanied by other symptoms or health concerns
• If stretch marks cause significant emotional distress
• If there are concerns about underlying health conditions that might be contributing to stretch mark formation

A healthcare provider can assess the situation, rule out any underlying medical conditions, and provide guidance on management strategies if necessary.

The Role of Hormones in Stretch Mark Formation

Hormonal changes play a significant role in the development of stretch marks, particularly during puberty and pregnancy. During these periods, hormones such as cortisol and estrogen can affect skin elasticity and collagen production.

In some cases, hormonal imbalances or certain medical conditions may contribute to the formation of stretch marks. These can include:

• Cushing’s syndrome
• Marfan syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

If there are concerns about hormonal issues or underlying medical conditions, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable.

Future Prospects: Emerging Treatments for Stretch Marks

As research in dermatology and skin care advances, new treatments for stretch marks are being developed. What promising therapies are on the horizon?

• Stem cell therapy: Research is exploring the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
• Advanced laser treatments: New laser technologies are being developed to target stretch marks more effectively.
• Topical treatments: Scientists are working on more potent topical formulations that can penetrate deeper into the skin to promote collagen production.

While these treatments are still in various stages of development and testing, they offer hope for more effective stretch mark treatments in the future.

The Importance of Realistic Expectations

When dealing with stretch marks, it’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations. While various treatments and strategies can help improve their appearance, complete elimination of stretch marks is often not possible. Accepting stretch marks as a normal part of body changes and growth can be an important step in maintaining a healthy body image.

Remember that stretch marks often fade significantly over time, even without treatment. Patience and a focus on overall skin health can go a long way in managing stretch marks effectively.

In conclusion, stretch marks are a common and normal occurrence, particularly during periods of rapid growth like puberty. While they may be a source of concern for many teens, understanding their causes, exploring management options, and maintaining a healthy perspective on body image can help in coping with stretch marks effectively. As research continues, new and more effective treatments may become available, offering hope for those seeking to reduce the appearance of stretch marks in the future.

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.