How do steroids cause stretch marks. What are the risk factors for developing steroid-induced stretch marks. Can steroid stretch marks be prevented. How are steroid stretch marks treated. Do steroid stretch marks go away on their own. What are the long-term effects of steroid-induced stretch marks.

Understanding Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

Steroid-induced stretch marks are a common side effect of long-term corticosteroid use, particularly at high doses. These stretch marks, also known as striae, occur when the skin is stretched rapidly due to weight gain or other changes associated with steroid use. The skin’s elasticity is compromised, leading to the formation of thin, reddish or purplish lines that eventually fade to a silvery-white color.

Corticosteroids like prednisone can cause stretch marks by:

• Increasing appetite and weight gain
• Altering skin structure and reducing collagen production
• Weakening connective tissues
• Redistributing body fat, especially to the face, neck, and abdomen

Are certain individuals more susceptible to steroid-induced stretch marks? Yes, some risk factors include:

• Young age
• Prolonged steroid use
• High steroid doses
• Genetic predisposition to stretch marks
• Rapid weight gain or loss

Recognizing the Signs of Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

Steroid-induced stretch marks often appear different from those caused by pregnancy or rapid growth. They tend to be:

• Wider and more prominent
• Darker in color initially (red, purple, or brown)
• Distributed symmetrically on the body
• Accompanied by other symptoms of steroid excess

Where do steroid-induced stretch marks typically appear? Common areas include:

• Abdomen
• Upper arms
• Thighs
• Breasts
• Lower back

Preventing Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

While it may not always be possible to prevent steroid-induced stretch marks completely, there are steps that can be taken to minimize their occurrence and severity:

1. Use the lowest effective steroid dose for the shortest necessary duration
2. Monitor weight closely and maintain a healthy diet
3. Stay hydrated to support skin elasticity
4. Apply moisturizers regularly to keep skin supple
5. Use sunscreen to protect vulnerable skin
6. Engage in regular exercise to maintain muscle tone and skin elasticity
7. Consider alternative treatments when possible

Is it possible to completely avoid stretch marks while on steroids? While complete prevention may not be guaranteed, these measures can significantly reduce the risk and severity of steroid-induced stretch marks.

Treatment Options for Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

Once steroid-induced stretch marks have developed, various treatment options may help improve their appearance:

Topical Treatments

• Retinoid creams: Promote collagen production and skin cell turnover
• Hyaluronic acid: Improves skin hydration and elasticity
• Vitamin E oil: May help reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Cocoa butter or shea butter: Moisturize and potentially improve skin texture

Medical Procedures

• Laser therapy: Targets pigmentation and stimulates collagen production
• Microneedling: Creates micro-injuries to stimulate collagen and elastin production
• Chemical peels: Remove outer layer of skin to promote new skin growth
• Radiofrequency treatments: Tighten skin and improve texture

How effective are these treatments for steroid-induced stretch marks? While results can vary, many individuals see improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks with consistent treatment. However, complete elimination of stretch marks is often not possible.

Long-Term Management of Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

Managing steroid-induced stretch marks is an ongoing process that requires patience and consistency. Long-term strategies include:

• Regular moisturizing to maintain skin elasticity
• Protecting affected areas from sun exposure
• Maintaining a stable weight to prevent further stretching of the skin
• Considering periodic touch-up treatments as needed
• Addressing any underlying body image concerns or emotional impact

Do steroid-induced stretch marks ever go away completely? While stretch marks may fade and become less noticeable over time, they rarely disappear entirely. However, their appearance can often be significantly improved with proper care and treatment.

The Psychological Impact of Steroid-Induced Stretch Marks

The development of steroid-induced stretch marks can have a significant psychological impact on individuals, affecting self-esteem and body image. It’s important to address these concerns as part of a comprehensive treatment approach:

• Encourage open communication about body image concerns
• Provide resources for mental health support if needed
• Promote body positivity and acceptance
• Educate patients on the normalcy of stretch marks and their prevalence
• Discuss realistic expectations for treatment outcomes

How can healthcare providers support patients struggling with the appearance of steroid-induced stretch marks? By offering a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle advice, and emotional support, providers can help patients navigate the challenges associated with these skin changes.

Monitoring and Preventing Complications from Steroid Use

While stretch marks are a visible side effect of steroid use, they may also indicate other potential complications. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in monitoring patients on long-term steroid therapy for signs of:

• Cushing’s syndrome
• Osteoporosis
• Adrenal suppression
• Increased risk of infections
• Metabolic changes, including diabetes

What steps can be taken to minimize the risk of steroid-related complications? Regular check-ups, bone density scans, blood glucose monitoring, and careful dose management are essential components of a comprehensive care plan for patients on long-term steroid therapy.

Alternatives to Steroid Therapy: Minimizing Stretch Mark Risk

For conditions that traditionally rely on steroid therapy, exploring alternative treatments may help reduce the risk of stretch marks and other side effects. Some options include:

• Biologic therapies for autoimmune conditions
• Immunomodulators
• Topical treatments for skin conditions
• Lifestyle modifications and dietary changes
• Physical therapy and exercise programs

Is it always possible to avoid steroid use? While alternatives exist for many conditions, steroids remain a crucial treatment option in certain cases. The decision to use steroids should be made on an individual basis, weighing the potential benefits against the risks.

In conclusion, steroid-induced stretch marks are a common and often distressing side effect of long-term corticosteroid use. While they may not be entirely preventable or treatable, understanding their causes, recognizing early signs, and implementing appropriate prevention and treatment strategies can help minimize their impact. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients, monitoring for complications, and providing comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of steroid-induced stretch marks. By taking a proactive approach to management and exploring alternative treatments when possible, patients and providers can work together to optimize outcomes and quality of life for those requiring steroid therapy.

Stretch marks and steroids

Mr A was a 25-year-old man who was on lifelong steroid medication for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. He was under the care of Dr F, a consultant endocrinologist. Dr F advised him to change his steroid medication from hydrocortisone to prednisolone, 7.5mg in the mornings and 5mg in the evenings. He gave him a prescription and wrote to Mr A’s GP to advise him of the steroid dose change.

A few weeks later Mr A had run out of prednisolone and went to see his GP, Dr S. He was prescribed 12.5mg prednisolone in the mornings and 10mg in the evenings. Dr S told him he had recently received a letter from Dr F about this dose.

Three weeks later Mr A started experiencing muscle cramps and mood swings. A few weeks after this his friends commented that his face was becoming swollen. In the subsequent weeks Mr A noticed he felt weaker and was not able to exercise as much at the local gym. He noticed he was bruising more easily.

Four weeks later he noticed he was developing large unsightly stretch marks on his body, especially around his back and abdomen. He consulted with another GP, Dr T, as he was concerned these, and his other symptoms, could be related to his steroid medication. Dr T examined him but advised him to wait and discuss his concerns with his endocrinologist at his appointment two months later.

At his endocrinology review Dr F advised him that all his recent symptoms were attributable to being on too high a dose of prednisolone. He reduced the steroid dose to 5mg prednisolone in the mornings and 2.5mg in the evenings.

Over the next few weeks most of the symptoms resolved, but Mr A was left with stretch marks that he found unsightly and embarrassing. He became very selfconscious and felt he could only go swimming with a T-shirt on. The stretch marks were itchy and uncomfortable, requiring frequent application of emollient, and he was advised that, although they would fade, they would never go away.

A DEXA scan revealed a decreased bone density and Mr A was commenced on Calcium tablets.

Mr A made a clinical negligence claim for undue suffering against Dr S and Dr T.

Expert opinion

The GP expert was critical of both Dr S and Dr T’s actions and felt this constituted a breach of duty.

It appeared that Dr S had misread Dr F’s letter and prescribed an excessively high dose of prednisolone. Mr A continued to receive prescriptions for this medication every 28 days and Dr S and Dr T continued to issue the prescriptions without querying the dose.

He was particularly critical of Dr T for not questioning the dose of steroid when the patient presented with a multitude of steroid-related symptoms as well as new stretch marks.

The endocrinology expert felt that all the symptoms were attributable to an excess prednisolone dose over a five-month period. He advised that most of the symptoms would be reversible, including the decreased bone density. However, he felt that the stretch marks would be permanent, although would fade to a certain extent over time.

The case was settled for a moderate sum.

Learning points

Side effects of corticosteroids are dose-related. Doctors should be alert to the potential side effects of long-term corticosteroids. These include all of the symptoms that Mr A was experiencing.

If a patient complains of new symptoms while on corticosteroid medication, review the current dose and ensure the patient is taking the medication correctly.

If there is any doubt about a patient’s dose of corticosteroid, have a low threshold for discussing the matter with the patient’s endocrinologist. If Dr T had telephoned Dr F for advice, the excess steroid dose would have been picked up two months earlier and might have reduced the severity of the stretch marks that the patient developed.

If a patient is receiving long-term corticosteroid treatment, it would be helpful for them to carry a steroid treatment card. This gives clear guidance on the precautions to be taken to minimise the risks of adverse effects, and provides details of the prescriber, drug, dosage, and duration of treatment.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has a useful resource addressing the management of patients receiving oral corticosteroids in primary care.

Does Prednisone Give You Stretch Marks From Weight Gain?

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Medically reviewed by
Todd Eisner, M.D.

Article written by
Marnie Willman

Prednisone is a corticosteroid (also called a steroid or glucocorticoid) used to treat many conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Prednisone is an anti-inflammatory drug that is often prescribed for IBD flare-ups. Prednisone has several possible side effects, and one of the most common is weight gain. This weight gain can cause stretch marks, particularly if it’s rapid.

Prednisone can be taken orally (by mouth) or intravenously (through a vein). Intravenous use is more common in hospitals, and oral administration is more common at home.

Why Does Prednisone Cause Weight Gain?

Members of MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam have discussed problems with weight gain while on prednisone or other steroids. One member shared, “My son has been rapidly gaining weight. Everybody makes him feel like he’s just eating too much.” Another wrote, “I’ve gained 40 pounds while on prednisone and I’m not eating any more than usual.”

There are two primary causes of weight gain while taking prednisone. The first is fluid retention. Cortisol (or the inactive version called cortisone) are naturally occurring hormones that play an important role in regulating your body’s water, sodium, and electrolyte balance. Prednisone is a cortisol-like drug and can throw off this balance. You may notice swelling of your ankles or other areas when taking prednisone. It can also cause high blood pressure or high blood sugar levels.

The second reason for weight gain while taking prednisone is an increase in appetite. According to an article in the journal Obesity, studies show that increased cortisol does reliably increase appetite, but it’s still unclear why.

Do Stretch Marks Go Away Once You Stop Prednisone?

The technical term for stretch marks is “striae” or “striae distensae.” Stretch marks occur when collagen (a protein that supports skin elasticity) is changed, and elastic fibers of your skin are absent — both of which result from rapid changes in weight or other skin-related changes.

Although stretch marks can be improved with treatments or medical interventions and do fade on their own, they may never completely go away. You can discuss a weight loss plan with your health care provider to start reducing the extra weight caused by oral steroids. Then, treating the stretch marks is easier and longer lasting.

Although weight gain and stretch marks can be frustrating side effects of prednisone, do not discontinue treatment without consulting your doctor. Suddenly stopping prednisone treatment can lead to steroid withdrawal symptoms.

How To Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks

There are several treatment options for stretch marks. The most reliable way to reduce them is by laser treatment. Because there is little to no evidence that preventing stretch marks is possible, treating them after they develop is your primary option. There are a few other methods you can consider to reduce the severity of stretch marks that resulted from prednisone treatment:

• Topical moisturizers and creams containing vitamin E, rosehip oil, and other beneficial compounds may help your skin recover.
• Microdermabrasion (this procedure gently removes the top layer of your skin, allowing treatments to reach deeper) can be used to enhance the penetration of moisturizers.
• Microneedling can also be performed similarly to microdermabrasion, but instead of “polishing,” it uses small needles to penetrate treatments.

Discuss Changes With Your Doctor

If you have concerns about weight gain from taking prednisone, the best first step is to talk to your doctor or health care team. They can help you adjust your dosage to reduce the impact (high doses lead to worse symptoms) and find treatment methods that work best for you.

Long-term use of any medication can be a challenge to navigate, and your health care team is the key to having fewer side effects and managing medical conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis for long periods of time.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam is the social network for people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and their loved ones. On MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam, more than 161,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Are you living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.

References

1. Prednisone — StatPearls
2. Medical Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis — Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery
3. Corticosteroids — StatPearls
4. Intravenous Steroids — NHS
5. Effect of Steroids on Energy Expenditure and Substrate Oxidation in Women With Crohn’s Disease — American Journal of Gastroenterology
6. Stretch Marks — StatPearls
7. ILD Nutrition Manual: Prednisone and Weight Gain — UCSF Health
8. Clinical Significance of Cortisone and Cortisone/Cortisol Ratio in Evaluating Children With Adrenal Diseases — Clinica Chimica Acta
9. Steroid Side Effects: How To Reduce Drug Side Effects of Corticosteroids — HSS
10. Stress, Cortisol, and Other Appetite-Related Hormones: Prospective Prediction of 6-Month Changes in Food Cravings and Weight — Obesity
11. Stria — Hypermobility, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
12. Microdermabrasion — StatPearls

Todd Eisner, M.D. has 32 years of experience in gastroenterology and internal medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Learn more about him here.

Marnie Willman is a Ph.D. candidate in medical microbiology and infectious diseases at the University of Manitoba. Learn more about her here.

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Stretch marks (stretch marks) – drugs and equipment for the treatment, clinical manifestations of stretch marks, Premium Aesthetics.

Contents

1. Etiology and pathogenesis
2. Clinical manifestations
3. Principles of treatment, instrumental techniques

Striae (stretch marks on the skin, striae distensae, stretch marks) are linear scars on the skin, the appearance of which in most cases is associated with atrophy of the epidermis as a result of excessively rapid stretching of the skin. Genetic predisposition to scarring, hormonal changes and other factors are of some importance.

In our company you can purchase the following equipment for removing striae:

• M22 (Lumenis)
• Fraxel (Solta Medical)
• AcuPulse (Lumenis)
• Divine pro (Pollogen by Lumenis)
• Legend Pro+ (Lumenis)
  

Striae can occur in any race and any gender, but women are about 2 times more likely than men. Striae are present in many girls (up to 70%) and boys (up to 40%) in adolescence. In pregnant women, stretch marks occur in 80–90% of cases.

Etiology and pathogenesis

Factors that contribute to the appearance of stretch marks:

1. Physical impact – as a result of mechanical stretching of the skin. Stretch marks often appear when there is a large amount of rigid (hard) mesh collagen in the dermis.
2. Changes in the structure and / or function of the skin – it has been noticed that striae do not occur in all areas subject to mechanical stretching. Therefore, the appearance of stretch marks is promoted by an altered structure or function of the skin in specific areas of the body. Biopsies showed that in such zones there is a decrease in the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts, a decrease in the expression of fibronectin and procollagen genes, a disruption in the network of elastin fibers, and the appearance of disordered fibrils rich in tropoelastin.
3. Hormonal influences – Relatively poorly understood, but findings suggest the following:

• increased expression of estrogen, androgen and glucocorticosteroid receptors in the area of ​​striae;
• an increase in the level of cortisol in the serum leads to changes in collagen and elastic fibers due to increased catabolism (destruction) of proteins;
• in women with striae at the 36th week of pregnancy, a reduced level of relaxin, a hormone responsible for suppressing collagen synthesis and its active destruction, is observed in the blood serum. The resulting excess collagen reduces the elasticity of the connective tissue, which contributes to the appearance of stretch marks.

4. In one of the recent studies, the role of deletions (loss of sections) and other mutations of the gene ELN , encoding elastin synthesis, in the appearance of large striae on the body was noted. For this, data from 33,930 people who underwent genetic testing were used.

The appearance of striae in men may be associated with active sports activities . In this case, there is a rapid growth of muscle tissue and stretching of the skin under the influence of large weights and loads. A certain contribution to the formation of stretch marks in athletes also makes the use of anabolic steroids.

Stretch marks can occur due to various diseases – for example, Cushing’s and Marfan’s syndromes. They also appear with long-term use of steroid hormones or their local application to the skin under occlusive (tight) dressings.

Various types striae :

• Striae distensae is the common name for striae that occur when the skin is mechanically stretched.
• Striae gravidarum is the common name for striae that appear during pregnancy.
• Striae rubra – fresh, immature pink or red striae.
• Striae alba – mature striae in the form of a white scar.
• Striae atrophicans – atrophic scar with thinned skin.
• Striae nigra – black striae.
• Striae caerulea – dark blue striae.

In the pathogenesis of striae in the early stages of their formation (striae rubra), inflammatory changes, edema of the dermis and perivascular infiltration by lymphocytes are noted in the skin. In the later stages (striae alba), the epidermis flattens and becomes thinner, and the characteristic ridges (rete ridges) gradually disappear. Densely packed bundles of collagen fibers in the dermis lie parallel to the epidermis at the level of the papillary layer. The elastin fibers are torn, contracted and twisted along the edges of the stretch marks, forming a characteristic pattern on the skin.

Clinical manifestations

Stretch marks in pregnant women usually occur in the abdomen and mammary glands ( fig. 1 ). In bodybuilders and other athletes, they usually appear in the armpits and thighs ( fig. 2 ). In adolescents and obese individuals – on the back, abdomen, legs and other areas, depending on which area of ​​the body increased in size faster than the others.

With intensive growth in boys, stretch marks are more likely to occur on the outer side of the thighs and in the lumbosacral region. On the back they can be confused with marks from blows ( fig. 3 ), therefore, if such striae are detected, the doctor should carefully question the patient. In teenage girls, stretch marks usually form on the buttocks and breasts.

Immediately after the appearance of striae, they are flat pinkish or reddish skin defects of short length – they are called striae rubra (red striae). Gradually, the defects mature and turn into white wrinkled scars – striae alba (white striae).

Typical striae alba are up to several tens of centimeters long and 1 to 10 millimeters wide. They are a scar with a high density of connective tissue fibers and poor extensibility. If white striae occupy a large area, they can break under intense mechanical stress – for example, from a strong blow.

Some striae rubra do not develop into striae alba over time, but instead take on the hue of surrounding healthy skin and become virtually invisible. It most often occurs in teenagers as they get older.

Clinical classification of striae:

• Stage I – fresh inflamed, usually purple stripes.
• II-a stage – white superficial furrows without gradation and without perceptible depression on the surface of the skin.
• II-b stage – white superficial furrows without gradation, but with a noticeable depression on the surface of the skin.
• III-a stage – white atrophic furrows with steps, less than 1 cm wide, without deep dyschromia.
• III-b stage – white atrophic furrows with steps, less than 1 cm wide, with deep dyschromia.
• Stage IV – white atrophic furrows with staggering, more than 1 cm wide, with or without deep dyschromia.

Steroid striae are longer and wider. They can cover large areas of the body, sometimes moving to the face of the patient. With local use of steroids, stretch marks appear under occlusive dressings. Most often, they affect the folds (elbow, knee) and can completely disappear with the timely cancellation of such treatment.

Fig. 1. Typical localization of striae on the abdomen in the last weeks of pregnancy ( www.medscape.com )

. 2. Athlete’s armpit striae ( Danish national service on dermato – venereology )

http://www.danderm-pdv.is.kkh.dk/atlas/6-116.html

Rice. 3. Stretch marks on the back of a teenager may resemble traces of beatings, which requires their careful study and detailed questioning of the patient ( Danish national service on dermato – venereology )

http://www. danderm-pdv.is.kkh.dk/atlas/3-178-1.html

an abundance of cosmetic, therapeutic, surgical and hardware techniques, the complete cure of stretch marks to smooth skin is a difficult task.

The basic and most effective recommendation is avoidance of rapid weight gain or loss . This applies not only to people with obesity, but also athletes (especially bodybuilders, powerlifters and other representatives of strength sports), adolescents and pregnant women. Any changes in weight should occur gradually and consistently, without sudden jumps. This is the only way to prevent the occurrence of stretch marks – and it is much easier than getting rid of them later.

Adolescents who develop stretch marks as they get older may gradually improve their skin condition without treatment. In this case, dynamic observation is recommended.

In general, striae rubra (red, immature striae) responds best to any treatment . Here you can use intensive skin hydration, vitamin C, Asian centella (Centella asiatica), application of silicone or non-silicone gels followed by massage, fruit acid peels (AHA peels) or retinol. There is evidence of the effectiveness of deep peeling with trichloroacetic acid (TCA-peeling) at a low concentration of 15–20%, in which it penetrates to the papillary dermis. The course of such treatment consists of several procedures with an interval of 1 month.

Topical application of retinoids (tretinoin) has shown significant improvement in skin condition in patients with red striae. Third-generation retinoids, adapalene and tazarotene, have good potential. However, they are not recommended for use in pregnant women due to possible teratogenic effects on the fetus.

All the described techniques become ineffective when transforming striae rubra into striae alba (white, mature striae) . In this case, some methods of scar treatment can be used – for example, occlusive dressings with silicone gel.

Microdermabrasion, microneedling, magnetic and ultrasound therapy are used with varying degrees of success for the treatment of stretch marks. There is evidence of the effectiveness of radio frequency (RF) therapy – a needle electrode was used to deliver energy into the skin to a depth of 3. 5 mm. Most of the patients who participated in the study were satisfied with the result.

Non-ablative fractional photothermolysis is one of the most effective and at the same time convenient methods of treating stretch marks and fractional ablation : techniques that can be used to remodel the dermis and scar tissue in a targeted and controlled manner.

Non-ablative lasers such as the ResurFX M22 and Fraxel create microzones of photothermolysis at the site of scar tissue, starting a process of gradual renewal. In addition, similar zones are created in the surrounding healthy skin. Fractional photothermolysis provides a gradual smoothing of the scar area, as well as smoothing the boundaries between healthy skin and stretch marks. As a result of such treatment, it is possible to achieve complete visual disappearance of the striae, especially if thin striae are treated – 1–3 mm.

Ablative lasers such as Acupulse work in a similar way and are more effective. But at the same time, fractional ablation is not always easy to use on areas of the body covered with clothing, due to the nature of rehabilitation.

IPL-therapy and RF-lifting also help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. IPL therapy applied to young striae (striae rubra) allows destroying superficial vessels, removing the red color and thus reducing the visibility of the defect. Tripollar multipolar RF technology causes contraction and “tensioning” of the skin – as a result, stretch marks located on stretched skin become less noticeable.

The combination of micro-needling RF with fractional RF remodeling of the skin surface, embodied in the Legend Pro+ and Divine pro multi-platforms, works even more effectively. The fact is that in addition to uneven relief, striae differ from the surrounding skin in color, therefore, for their correction, the use of combined techniques may be the best solution. Ultra-thin electrode needles deliver RF energy to the reticular dermis, helping to even out the relief in the area of ​​striae, while fractional epidermal ablation improves the texture and tone of the skin surface.

Questions from our users:

• stretch marks treatment
• stretch marks laser treatment
• laser hair removal
• removal of stretch marks on the body with a laser

In our company you can purchase the most modern cosmetology equipment

• Devices with IPL (Intensive Pulse Light)
• Ablative CO2 lasers
• RF Beauty Machines
• Fractional Photothermolysis Machines
• Multi-module beauty platforms

Why stretch marks appear on the skin, treatment of stretch marks and stretch marks

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Why do stretch marks appear on the skin, treatment of stretch marks and stretch marks

Services
Doctors
results
Reviews

Verified by an expert

Kuznetsova Ekaterina Olegovna

Dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist, nutritionist

Publication date: October 10, 2019

Check date: November 06, 2021

Contents

• Why do stretch marks appear on the skin?
• What color are the stretch marks?
• Size and number of stretch marks on the skin
• Diagnosis of stretch marks
• Treatment of stretch marks
• Laser removal of stretch marks
• What are the advantages of laser removal of stretch marks?
• Treatment of stretch marks with peels, injections and drug therapy

Why do stretch marks appear on the skin?

Stretch marks (striae) are rupture of the dermis due to stretching of the skin. Theoretically, they can occur on any part of the body, but in most cases they form in those places where a person has the highest concentration of subcutaneous fat – the chest, abdomen, thighs and buttocks. In people who are actively involved in sports, stretch marks can also occur on the inside of the arms, since during intense training it is these areas of the body that increase significantly in volume. In rare cases, such skin disorders can form on the face, neck, back, and other parts of the body.

At their core, skin stretch marks are nothing more than microtraumas. The skin is not able to stretch due to the rapid change in body volume, and therefore is injured from the inside. The body, trying to “sew up” the wound, fills the area with connective tissue, which differs in its properties from the skin. In addition, some hormonal drugs, in particular, corticosteroids, which are used primarily to eliminate certain inflammations, can be the cause of stretch marks.

Stretch marks also occur in adolescents during puberty. This skin defect is encountered by 60% of the fair sex after the birth of a child and the period of breastfeeding. Athletes who radically revise their diet, or who use anabolic steroids, also experience stretch marks.

Actually, not even the diet itself or the use of any drug plays a role, but the fact that this is followed by sharp changes in weight, both in one direction and in the other. That is why the problem of stretch marks is relevant for bodybuilders whose training process involves gaining muscle mass, or, conversely, losing extra pounds. If these processes are accompanied by the intake of various hormonal drugs, the risk of skin stretch marks increases significantly. Excessive exercise after a long break or an abrupt cessation of exercise can also lead to stretch marks.

Sometimes the cause of the appearance of stretch marks can be determined by the nature of their location. Usually, horizontal striae are observed with hormonal imbalances, and vertical ones with rapid weight gain or fluctuations and after childbirth.

What color are the stretch marks?

The color of stretch marks depends on the age of their formation. Fresh stretch marks have various red-violet hues. Over time, the striae brighten. This happens about a year and a half after the formation of striae.

The connective tissue that makes up the striae has a reduced ability to form melanin. That is why, when tanning, skin areas with stretch marks tan less than the surrounding area of ​​the skin, and become much more noticeable. Only sometimes, with a certain skin phototype, tanning can make stretch marks less noticeable. But even in such cases, ultraviolet rays do not have a therapeutic effect, but only smooth out the existing cosmetic defect.

Size and number of stretch marks on the skin

Stretch marks can be multiple and single, this indicator depends on the degree of stretching of the skin and the features of its structure. Their sizes vary in wide ranges and depend on the same indicators. The width of the striae can be from 1 to 6-7 mm, and the length – from 1 to 10 cm.

The relief of striae can also be different. They can protrude above the surface of the skin, be retracted or flush with the skin. These figures may change over time.

Stretch marks themselves do not pose a threat to human health. However, they spoil the appearance of the skin, creating internal discomfort.

Diagnosis of stretch marks

Diagnosis of stretch marks is not difficult. To do this, you need to contact a dermatologist, endocrinologist or cosmetologist who will examine the skin.

To determine the age of stretch marks, the doctor compares such indicators as the presence of dilated vessels and fibrous tissues in the area of ​​​​stretch marks. With fresh stretch marks, a large number of altered vessels are observed, and as the aging of the striae of the vessels becomes smaller, and the amount of scar tissue increases.

Stretch mark treatment

Stretch marks are treated in cases where they represent a significant aesthetic defect and cause anxiety to their owner.

It is important to note that the treatment of striae should begin as early as possible, since the effectiveness of therapy largely depends on this. Stretch marks that have formed more than a year ago are less susceptible to treatment, because cicatricial changes have already fully formed in them. But thanks to modern techniques, such striae can be made almost invisible.

The use of widely advertised cosmetics (creams, ointments, gels, masks, etc.) to eliminate stretch marks is ineffective in most cases. Such local remedies cannot eliminate scar tissue in the deep layers of the skin and only sometimes contribute to faster maturation of scar changes and some discoloration of stretch marks.

Stretch mark treatment is always a complex and lengthy process. To eliminate them, various methods and their combinations prescribed by doctors can be used.

Laser stretch mark removal

Laser stretch mark removal is recognized as the most versatile, effective and safe.

In “A Clinic” stretch marks are removed using the American Fraxel laser and the Italian technology of Dermal Radio Wave Optical Thermolysis (DROT-therapy).

Fraxel is able to destroy scar tissue at a depth of up to 1.5 mm and stimulate the growth of normal tissue at this site. In this case, the surface of the skin is not affected. The Fraxel laser safely removes stretch marks on any part of the body, including the chest and inner thighs.

DROT is a combination of laser and radio wave energy in one device. The device on which the DROT is performed makes it possible to work with “hot”, “cold” pulses, as well as the classic CO2 laser pulse. At the same time, radiofrequency exposure, which works simultaneously with all impulses, significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment, deeply remodulating the tissue. The “pulse shape design” technology allows you to select the optimal exposure parameters for each patient. This helps to reach all layers – from superficial to deep.

The pulses of the laser system generate microthermal damage zones that destroy scar tissue. In areas subjected to fractional exposure, regeneration processes are launched, a new healthy tissue is formed without aesthetic defects. The number of sessions required to improve the skin relief is determined individually depending on the patient’s skin condition.

What are the benefits of laser stretch mark removal?

1. Almost all stretch marks can be removed. The laser affects a certain depth, which is set individually, depending on the age of the stretch marks.
2. During the procedure, healthy tissues are not affected, their burn is excluded.
3. Suitable for sensitive areas. The laser can be used in the most sensitive areas – on the chest, abdomen, inner surfaces of the arms and thighs.
4. There is no rehabilitation period. The maximum that can appear after laser exposure is a slight reddening. It passes during the day. The skin recovers quickly.
5. In most cases, the procedure is carried out immediately after the initial consultation.

You can get rid of stretch marks in 4-6 sessions, provided that the resurfacing is deep enough and the skin changes themselves are not too old. Jet Peel during resurfacing acts on the principle of microdermabrasion. For grinding, saline particles are used, which act as abrasive particles at a high speed of the mixture. In other words, they even out the skin, making it uniform and smooth.

Kuznetsova Ekaterina Olegovna

Dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist, nutritionist

Treatment of stretch marks with peels, injections and drug therapy

If stretch marks appeared not very long ago, they can be removed using various injection and non-injection techniques. Among them, the doctors of “A Clinic” recommend paying attention to the following methods of influence.

1. Collagen-stimulating preparations (Radiesse, Estefil, Ellanse, Sculptra). The result becomes noticeable after the first procedure.

2. Microdermabrasion – mechanical skin resurfacing. With its help, the surface layer of the epidermis is exfoliated. A stream of dry air from a special apparatus is supplied under pressure to the surface of the skin. It contains millions of aluminum oxide microparticles. The flow of microcrystals actively cleanses the skin. After that, it is instantly removed (absorbed) by a vacuum trap.

Vacuum effect activates blood microcirculation, stimulates natural metabolic processes. This helps her rejuvenate. The skin becomes smooth and silky, firm and elastic.

The effect of microdermabrasion is felt after the first procedure. Subsequent sessions strengthen it and fix it. As a rule, microdermabrasion is carried out in a course. The breaks between sessions are one week. For maximum effect, 4 to 7 procedures are required. In particularly difficult cases, 10-12 procedures are recommended.

3. Mesotherapy – dermal injection of therapeutic cocktails, which contain special substances to destroy old collagen fibers and stimulate the production of new ones. Injections are carried out at a depth of 1-4 mm.

4. Non-injection mesotherapy . The introduction of therapeutic drugs is carried out using apparatus methods: ultrasound, electric current, oxygen supplied under pressure, etc. From medicines, hyaluronic acid, enzymes that destroy scar tissue, antioxidants, silicon-based preparations are used.

5. Jet Peel is a combination of cleansing peeling and injection-free therapeutics.

Cleaning is done with a thin jet, which is supplied under high pressure. It consists of micro-droplets of liquid (purified water, saline), oxygen and a cooled inert gas that desensitizes the skin. Due to this, the process does not cause discomfort or pain.

Consistently treating skin areas, the beautician polishes them, removing the dead layer of the epidermis from it, activating metabolic processes and skin renewal at the cellular level.

For non-injection mesotherapy, Jet Peel uses a cocktail that includes an individually selected composition of vitamins, microelements, amino acids and bioactive substances.

The duration of the session depends on the area of ​​influence. Local peeling takes 10-15 minutes. Processing a large area can take up to an hour. After the procedure, no rehabilitation is required.

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Appeal of the chief physician of “A Clinic” Natalia Borisovna Zhmurina

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