What causes stretch marks to itch. How can you treat itchy stretch marks effectively. What are the best prevention methods for stretch marks. How do pregnancy and other factors contribute to stretch mark formation.

Understanding Stretch Marks: Formation and Characteristics

Stretch marks are distinctive lines that appear on the skin, typically ranging in color from white to red. They commonly develop on areas of the body prone to rapid weight gain or growth, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and breasts. But what exactly causes these marks to form?

Stretch marks occur when the skin is stretched beyond its elastic capacity, resulting in tears in the dermis – the layer of skin beneath the epidermis. As the dermis tears, the underlying tissues become visible, creating the characteristic appearance of stretch marks. Initially, fresh stretch marks may appear pink, red, or purple and are more likely to cause itching. Over time, as they heal, stretch marks often fade to a white or silver color.

• Common locations: Abdomen, hips, thighs, breasts
• Initial colors: Pink, red, purple
• Healed colors: White, silver
• Orientation: Usually vertical, sometimes horizontal

Are stretch marks harmful to your health? While they can be cosmetically concerning for some individuals, stretch marks do not pose any medical risks. The primary issues associated with stretch marks are typically cosmetic and sometimes accompanied by itching, especially in newly formed marks.

The Science Behind Itchy Stretch Marks

Why do stretch marks itch? The itching sensation often associated with stretch marks is a natural part of the skin’s healing process. When the dermis tears during stretch mark formation, nerve endings in the skin become irritated, triggering an itchy response. This irritation is particularly common in fresh stretch marks, as the skin is actively healing and repairing itself.

Interestingly, itching can occur not only during the formation of stretch marks but also after weight loss. As the skin contracts and adjusts to the body’s new shape, it can cause a renewed sensation of itchiness in existing stretch marks.

Factors Intensifying Itch in Stretch Marks

• Rapid skin stretching
• Hormonal changes
• Dry skin
• Healing process

Does everyone experience itchy stretch marks? Not necessarily. The intensity of itching can vary greatly among individuals and may depend on factors such as skin type, the rate of weight gain or loss, and overall skin health.

Pregnancy and Stretch Marks: A Unique Challenge

Pregnancy is a time when many women experience the development of stretch marks, often accompanied by intense itching. The rapid weight gain and expansion of the abdomen during pregnancy can lead to significant skin stretching, making pregnant women particularly susceptible to stretch mark formation.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can also contribute to increased skin sensitivity and itching. In some cases, pregnant women may develop a condition known as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), which can exacerbate the itching associated with stretch marks.

PUPPP and Stretch Marks

PUPPP is a pregnancy-specific skin condition that can cause intense itching, particularly in areas where stretch marks are present. This condition typically appears in the third trimester and is characterized by small, red bumps and hive-like rashes. When PUPPP develops on top of stretch marks, it can lead to extreme discomfort and itching.

• Appears in third trimester
• Characterized by red bumps and hive-like rashes
• Can intensify itching in stretch mark areas

How can pregnant women manage itchy stretch marks? Maintaining skin hydration, using gentle, pregnancy-safe moisturizers, and consulting with a healthcare provider for severe cases are essential steps in managing this condition during pregnancy.

Non-Pregnancy Causes of Stretch Marks

While pregnancy is a common cause of stretch marks, numerous other factors can contribute to their development. Understanding these causes can help individuals better prevent and manage stretch marks.

Genetic Predisposition

Genetics play a significant role in determining an individual’s likelihood of developing stretch marks. Those with a family history of stretch marks are more prone to developing them themselves. This genetic susceptibility is thought to be related to variations in genes that affect skin elasticity and collagen production.

Rapid Weight Fluctuations

Sudden weight gain or loss can lead to the formation of stretch marks. This is particularly common during puberty when growth spurts can cause rapid changes in body shape and size. Similarly, individuals who engage in intense bodybuilding or experience significant weight loss may develop stretch marks as their skin adjusts to these changes.

Medical Conditions and Treatments

Certain medical conditions and treatments can increase the risk of developing stretch marks. These include:

• Cushing’s syndrome: A hormonal disorder that can cause rapid weight gain
• Marfan syndrome: A genetic disorder affecting connective tissue
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A group of disorders affecting collagen production
• Corticosteroid use: Long-term use of topical or systemic corticosteroids can thin the skin, making it more prone to stretching

How do these conditions contribute to stretch mark formation? They often affect the skin’s elasticity or cause rapid changes in body composition, leading to the stretching and tearing of the dermis that results in stretch marks.

Effective Treatments for Itchy Stretch Marks

Managing the itchiness associated with stretch marks is crucial for comfort and to prevent further skin irritation. While stretch marks themselves are permanent, various treatments can help alleviate itching and improve their appearance.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter and prescription topical treatments can be effective in reducing itching and improving the appearance of stretch marks:

• Moisturizers: Keeping the skin hydrated can reduce itching and improve skin elasticity
• Hyaluronic acid: Helps retain moisture and may improve skin texture
• Retinoids: Can stimulate collagen production and improve skin appearance
• Cocoa butter or shea butter: Natural moisturizers that may help soothe itchy skin

Medical Procedures

For more significant improvement in the appearance of stretch marks, several medical procedures are available:

1. Laser therapy: Can help reduce redness and improve skin texture
2. Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production to improve skin appearance
3. Chemical peels: Can improve skin texture and reduce discoloration
4. Radiofrequency treatments: May help tighten skin and improve stretch mark appearance

Are these treatments effective for all types of stretch marks? The effectiveness of these treatments can vary depending on the age and severity of the stretch marks, as well as individual skin type and response to treatment.

Natural Remedies for Itch Relief

For those seeking natural alternatives to manage itchy stretch marks, several home remedies and lifestyle changes can provide relief:

Aloe Vera

Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera gel can help reduce itching and inflammation associated with stretch marks. Its natural moisturizing effects can also help improve skin elasticity.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, when properly diluted, may help reduce itching and improve skin health:

• Lavender oil: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties
• Chamomile oil: Can help soothe irritated skin
• Frankincense oil: May help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of scars

How should essential oils be used for stretch marks? Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil before applying to the skin to prevent irritation.

Oatmeal Baths

Colloidal oatmeal baths can provide relief for itchy skin, including stretch marks. The anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal can help soothe irritated skin and reduce itching.

Hydration and Diet

Maintaining proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and protein can support overall skin health and may help reduce the severity of stretch marks and associated itching.

Prevention Strategies for Stretch Marks

While it’s not always possible to prevent stretch marks entirely, several strategies can help minimize their development and severity:

Gradual Weight Management

Maintaining a stable weight or losing weight gradually can help prevent the rapid skin stretching that leads to stretch mark formation. This is particularly important during pregnancy, where slow and steady weight gain is recommended.

Regular Moisturizing

Keeping skin well-hydrated can improve its elasticity and potentially reduce the likelihood of stretch mark formation. Using moisturizers rich in vitamins E and C, as well as hyaluronic acid, can be particularly beneficial.

Nutrition for Skin Health

A diet rich in skin-supporting nutrients can help maintain skin elasticity and strength:

• Vitamin C: Supports collagen production
• Vitamin D: Helps with skin cell growth and repair
• Zinc: Important for wound healing and skin health
• Protein: Essential for skin structure and repair

Can dietary changes completely prevent stretch marks? While a healthy diet supports overall skin health, it’s important to note that genetic factors also play a significant role in stretch mark development.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking adequate water helps maintain skin elasticity from the inside out. Proper hydration supports overall skin health and may help reduce the likelihood of stretch mark formation.

Exercise

Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and improve skin elasticity through increased circulation. Focus on exercises that target areas prone to stretch marks, such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

By implementing these prevention strategies, individuals can take proactive steps to minimize the development of stretch marks and manage any associated itching. While stretch marks are a common and natural occurrence, understanding their causes and available treatments can help individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their skin.

Causes, Treatments, Itch Relief, Prevention

Itchy Stretch Marks: Causes, Treatments, Itch Relief, Prevention

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Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D. O. — By Kristeen Cherney on October 22, 2018

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Identifying stretch marks

Stretch marks are the white to red lines that you might see on your abdomen, hips, thighs, or other parts of your body. Aside from the appearance, you might also notice extreme itchiness, which is more likely to occur with newly developed stretch marks during pregnancy and other weight fluctuations.

While stretch marks can occur anywhere on the body, they tend to develop on areas where you’ve gained a lot of weight in a short amount of time. This includes both pregnancy and nonpregnancy weight gain, such as in puberty.

Stretch marks aren’t medically harmful. The key is to properly identify the stretch marks and then alleviate the itch.

Causes of stretch mark itch

Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of your skin that causes tearing at the dermis, the layer below the epidermis. This tearing allows what’s in the layer below the dermis to fill in and cause stretch marks.

This usually occurs when you gain weight in a short amount of time, and your skin has to compensate for the rapid growth. Such weight gain may be attributed to pregnancy, puberty, or certain medical conditions.

At first, new stretch marks are pink, red, or purple in color. Fresh stretch marks are also more prone to itchiness. As stretch marks heal, they can turn white. Most stretch marks run vertically along your body, though they can sometimes be horizontal, too.

Healing skin tends to be itchy. With dermal tearing, your nerves respond by creating the itchy sensations. This is also why your stretch marks might itch after you’ve lost weight.

Pregnancy and stretch marks

Pregnancy may cause rapid weight gain in some women, especially in the hip, thigh, and abdominal areas. Some women are more prone to stretch marks in these areas, and they may itch as they heal.

It’s also possible that the itchiness is attributed to more than just pregnancy-related stretch marks. Some pregnant women develop a rash called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP). In some cases, PUPPP may develop directly on top of your stretch marks, causing extreme itchiness.

Nonpregnancy and stretch marks

Itchy stretch marks are also related to other causes. While anyone who experiences weight fluctuations may get stretch marks, you’re more likely to get them if you:

• are female
• have a family history of stretch marks
• experience rapid muscle growth while weight training
• have a history of rapid weight gain or loss
• are undergoing puberty
• have a history of systemic or topical corticosteroid use, such as regularly using topical hydrocortisone on your skin, as these can stretch out the skin and make it thinner

Certain medical conditions not related to pregnancy may also lead to stretch marks. These include:

• being overweight or obese
• frequent hormone fluctuations
• Cushing syndrome
• Marfan’s syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

As stretch marks develop and heal with any of the above causes and risk factors, you might experience on-site itchiness. And, look out for dry skin, as this can make your stretch marks itchier.

Itch relief

The key to getting itchy stretch marks under control is to treat the underlying itchiness. Try not to scratch, because it makes you more prone to cuts and infections. Instead, try these home remedies to stop the itch.

Cocoa butter

This is one home treatment that’s especially soothing for your skin during pregnancy. The thick, ultra-moisturizing cream help keep your skin hydrated while also decreasing itchiness.

Find cocoa butter online here.

Moisturizers and other topicals

Itchiness that’s caused by PUPPP may benefit from a moisturizer as well as topical corticosteroids or antihistamines. However, be sure you don’t use the corticosteroid for longer than recommended, as this can cause thinning skin over time, and an increased risk for future stretch marks.

Buy a moisturizer online.

Coconut oil and vitamin E

Coconut oil and vitamin E capsules and creams may also help alleviate itchiness. Other plant-based oils, such as almond and olive oils can also reduce the itch in your stretch marks. If your skin is on the oily side, try jojoba oil instead — this may help to cause less oil accumulation from your skin.

Find coconut oil products here.

See vitamin E products online.

Use early and often

No matter which home remedy you try, it’s important to use it as early and often as possible for the best results. It can also take several days — even weeks — for any stretch mark home remedy to work. Massaging the product in your skin can make it more effective. Stick with your treatment until all signs and symptoms of itchy stretch marks have improved.

There are also professional-grade procedural treatments, which are typically performed by a dermatologist, for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Some of the options include laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. You may consider seeing a dermatologist for more information on these options.

Prevention

You can help prevent itchiness by properly moisturizing your stretch marks and the surrounding skin. Drinking an ample amount of water every day can also keep skin hydrated and reduce itchiness.

While it’s nearly impossible to prevent weight fluctuations during the course of a lifetime, you can help to make sure you’re in control of some of the causes of rapid weight gain, such as steroid use or a sedentary lifestyle.

Keeping up with your annual health exams will also give your doctor an opportunity to diagnose possible underlying causes of rapid weight gain that may be controlled with prompt treatment.

The bottom line

Just as most stretch marks fade to a less noticeable appearance with time, you’ll also likely see a gradual decline in the itchiness. However, if your stretch marks continue to itch severely despite home treatments, you may want to see your doctor for an evaluation. You should also call your doctor if your stretch marks are accompanied by a rash.

Last medically reviewed on October 22, 2018

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How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2016). Stretch marks.
  mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stretch-marks/symptoms-causes/syc-20351139
• Ngan V. (2003). Stretch marks.
  dermnetnz.org/topics/stretch-marks-striae/
• Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy. (n.d.).
  aocd.org/page/PUPPP
• Stretch marks. (2014).
  kidshealth.org/en/teens/stretch-marks.html
• Stretch marks. (2016).
  nhs.uk/conditions/stretch-marks/
• Stretch marks: How they appear and how to get rid of them. (n.d.).
  aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/skin-care/stretch-marks
• Striae. (n.d.).
  aocd.org/?page=Striae
• Ud-Din S, et al. (2016). Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): Prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. DOI:
  10.1111/jdv.13223

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Oct 22, 2018

Written By

Kristeen Cherney, PhD

Edited By

Nizam Khan (TechSpace)

Medically Reviewed By

Stacy Sampson, D.O.

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Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D.O. — By Kristeen Cherney on October 22, 2018

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Why Are Stretch Marks Itchy?

If you’ve been asking yourself, why do my stretch marks itch you’re not alone. It doesn’t matter if its stretch marks on the butt or belly it can be very annoying. Stretch marks are when your skin starts to stretch and begins tearing at the dermis due to weight gain in a short amount of time. Oftentimes this is due to pregnancy, puberty, or some medical conditions.

As new stretch marks form, they are often pink, red, or purple in color and it’s these fresh stretch marks that are often prone to itchiness. However, if you have itchy bumps on stretch marks this can be similar to hives. And something that you’ll want to discuss with your doctor.  

If your stretch marks itch and they are the color white this simply means that they are healing. As your skin heals it becomes itchy. This is similar to when you have a cut and starts to become itchy as it forms a scab which is a sign that it is healing. 

What does it mean when stretch marks itch?

If you’ve been scratching stretch marks more than likely you’ve been wondering why they are so itchy. There are many different reasons why your stretch marks are itchy. But what it really all boils down to is your skin health.  

Collagen and elastin play an important role in the health of your skin. The main role of collagen is to provide structure, strength, and support. The main role of elastin is to provide stretchiness. However, healthy skin doesn’t always prevent stretch marks, but it does reduce your risk. 

Some of the things that you’ll want to look at when treating stretch marks are products that are derived from vitamin A, tretinoin and retinoids. When you apply these to your skin, you’ll see an improvement in the appearance of stretch marks sooner than later.  than a few months old. 

The reason for your itchy stretch marks during pregnancy, itchy stretch marks after pregnancy, or stretch marks itching weight loss it’s because your skin is stretching and becoming thinner, and softer and it’s less supported than it once was. And as a result of this, it lacks the support of nerve effectors which are more sensitive and prone to itching.

Causes of stretch mark itch

There are different causes of itching stretch marks. It can be from new stretch marks forming these are generally red itchy stretch marks, old stretch marks itchy due to healing or it could be the result of PUPPP. PUPPP stands for Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. This is a rash that is similar to a patch of itchy, hive-like bumps that form in your stretch marks. Generally, it starts on your belly and spreads to other parts of your body when you’re pregnant. This is harmless to both you and your baby, however, it can cause excessive itching. 

Does scratching make stretch marks worse?

It’s really difficult not to scratch stretch marks on buttocks, belly, thighs, or anywhere else. However, stretch marks scratching can lead to a blister in stretch marks and this will ultimately lead to cuts that could lead to an infection. The key to getting itchy stretch marks under control is by treating the cause of the itchiness. 

For example, if you notice bumps on stretch marks that itch this is likely PUPPP and you’ll want to treat this with an oatmeal bath or cold compresses to relieve the itching.  

If you are losing weight stomach itching can mean that fresh stretch marks are forming and you’ll want to start treating your skin to aid in prevention. This can be achieved through 100% medical-grade silicone patches. These patches provide a natural and effective way to deliver the extra moisture that your skin needs to keep those new stretch marks from forming. They will also help to treat postpartum itching, itchy after birth stretch marks, and more.  

How do you stop stretch marks from itching?

When you have itchy bumps on stretch marks or red bumps on stretch marks not pregnant or pregnant the key to getting the itch under control is to treat the itch sooner than later. It might seem impossible but do your best not to scratch and treat the stretch marks and stretch mark bump with some of the following home remedies to stop the itch.

Cocoa butter is a great home treatment when it comes to soothing your skin when you’re pregnant. It’s a thick cream that has ultra-moisturizing properties that helps to keep your skin hydrated. This will also help to decrease the itchiness and keep it at bay if you’re consistently putting it on your skin. 

Moisturizers and other topicals

If your itchiness is caused by PUPPP you’ll find that there are plenty of benefits from using a good moisturizer as well as topical corticosteroids or antihistamines. Although you won’t want to use corticosteroid for longer than recommended, and you wouldn’t want to use it when you’re pregnant. It is known to cause your skin to begin thinning and actually increases the risk of stretch marks as a result.

Coconut oil and vitamin E

Coconut oil and vitamin E can be used with capsules or creams and both will help to alleviate itchiness and improve the health of your skin. Healthy skin is less likely to stretch beyond its limits. There are some other plant-based oils that you can use that will also help to reduce the itch in your stretch marks. However, if your skin tends to easily get oily you may want to use another type of home remedy.   

How to treat itchy stretch marks during pregnancy

One of the joys of pregnancy is all these unwanted symptoms that begin to surface. And an itchy belly is one of the first signs that your skin is changing and adapting to the growing baby inside of you. However, you should know that just because your skin is itchy doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll develop stretch marks. But it is a good indication that you might want to adopt some type of stretch mark prevention routine. 

Itchy stretch marks pregnancy treatment can be different because you want to ensure that your baby is safe from any products that you use. Silicone patches are safe and effective to use throughout your pregnancy to treat and prevent stretch marks. 

Stretch marks itching pregnancy treatments can also include ensuring that you get an adequate amount of water to remain hydrated for both your growing baby and skin. 

How to treat itchy stretch marks after pregnancy

The same type of treatment can be used for itchy stretch marks, weight loss, or after pregnancy and this includes coconut oil and vitamin E capsules, creams, and even some plant-based oils, such as almond and olive oils will also help to reduce the itchiness. However, if you want to treat the stretch marks so that they can become less noticeable and even disappear you’ll want to consider using Dermaclara silicone patches. They will help to relieve dry itchy skin and stretch marks as they help to heal them completely.  

With patches that come in a variety of sizes and shapes, you’ll have no trouble covering your entire pregnant belly or just patches around your sides or belly button.

What are stretch marks (stretch marks), how to get rid of them, causes of formation

Question – answer
#clinic_kosmetomed

dated November 16, 2020

What are stretch marks or striae?

Stretch marks (striae) is a cosmetic defect, which is atrophic scars on the skin in the form of strips of various widths and lengths. Stretch marks are colored from white to bright red and are most often localized in places of greatest skin extensibility: on the mammary glands, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, shoulders, back, etc. They can be either single or multiple with lesions of large areas of the skin. Usually atrophic scars in the form of striae are located on the same level with the skin surface, or have a retracted shape, creating a depression in the skin relief.

Stretch marks do not pose a health hazard, but this cosmetic flaw causes serious emotional discomfort to their owners due to aesthetic unattractiveness.

Why do stretch marks appear?

The reasons for the appearance of striae are very diverse: these are significant fluctuations in weight, and puberty with its inherent hormonal changes, and pregnancy, and endocrine diseases, and long-term drug therapy, and heredity, etc.

With a wide variety of reasons, the mechanism of formation of stretch marks is the same, and it is associated with the process of impaired synthesis of collagen and elastin in the skin. Under the influence of provoking factors (rapid weight gain or muscle mass, pregnancy, hormonal failure, etc. ) in the reticular layer of the dermis, a situation develops of a deficiency in the production of important proteins – collagen and elastin, which are responsible not only for the elasticity of the skin, but also for the vascular wall. At the same time, the number of enzymes that destroy collagen and elastin remains the same. As a result, a pathological process develops, in which the breakdown of the main scaffold proteins of the skin prevails over the rate of their synthesis, which leads to tear and rupture of collagen and elastin fibers, as well as damage to the vascular wall of small skin capillaries. Therefore, in the initial stages of their development, striae have a purple-cyanotic hue. Then – at the site of breaks due to the active synthesis of connective tissue – stretch marks acquire a whitish-pearl hue. Unfortunately, this process is irreversible.

How to get rid of stretch marks?

Fresh stretch marks are best corrected – the earlier the correction of stretch marks is started, the more pronounced the result will be. It is almost impossible to completely get rid of stretch marks, but you can make them barely noticeable and at the same time significantly reduce skin laxity in the area of ​​accumulation of stretch marks.

The most popular methods for removing stretch marks:

• Laser stretch marks removal is the most effective method of correction. In our clinic, several professional lasers are presented to eliminate stretch marks. The main advantage of using lasers is their high efficiency – the result is visible after the first session. At the same time, the impact is not only directly on atrophic scars, but also on the surrounding tissues, significantly improving the quality of the skin in the area of ​​striae localization. The procedures are harmless to health, with a short rehabilitation period. In the arsenal of our doctors there are several methods for removing stretch marks with a laser: laser resurfacing, fractional photothermolysis, laser nanoperforation, neodymium laser. It is almost impossible to say which of the methods of laser exposure is better. As a rule, the doctors of our clinic in each individual case apply the most effective method or a combination of them.
• Mesotherapy – vitamin complexes saturated with useful elements, hyaluronic acid, peptides, etc. are injected under the patient’s skin – drugs that stimulate the synthesis of new collagen fibers. Mesotherapy has the greatest effect when combined with laser techniques.
• Injectable carboxytherapy
• Correction of striae with collagen stimulators – injection of preparations based on hyaluronic acid and dextranomers under the bottom of an atrophic scar or chipping with a linear retrograde technique over the entire zone of distribution of the deformed tissue. Such drugs have a number of properties that significantly improve the quality of tissue in the area of ​​an atrophic scar: they restore volume, bind inflammatory mediators, initiate the synthesis of mature type I collagen, etc.
• Chemical peeling – stretch marks can only be affected at the initial stage of appearance in combination with other techniques.
• Microcurrents – low-frequency impulses of microcurrents activate metabolic and regeneration processes at the cellular level. The procedure for the treatment of stretch marks with microcurrents is used by our doctors in combination with laser techniques.

At a free consultation, the doctors of our clinic will diagnose and select the most appropriate method or set of techniques to eliminate stretch marks.

Stretch Mark Prevention

Particular attention should be paid to measures to prevent striae in people with a tendency to sudden fluctuations in weight, adolescents in adolescence, patients with endocrine diseases and the presence of a hereditary factor, and, of course, pregnant women.

The most effective methods of prevention include:

• Stable weight support. Sharp jumps in weight in any direction is one of the most common causes of stretch marks.
• Sport. Allows you to keep muscles and skin in good shape.
• Massage and contrast shower. During these procedures, blood circulation is improved and skin regeneration is accelerated.
• Cosmetics. It is recommended to use body creams containing vitamins A, E and C, as well as a collagen-elastin complex in the composition.
• During pregnancy, preventive measures to prevent stretch marks are especially relevant. Special bandages should be worn that control overstretching of the skin, and during lactation it is recommended to wear special bras that support the skin.

If stretch marks have already appeared, then it will not be possible to get rid of them on your own. To correct their severity, it is necessary to contact specialists in the field of aesthetic medicine.

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Stretch marks on the body – what they look like and what causes stretch marks on the skin

Contents

• What are stretch marks
• Why stretch marks appear
• Stretch Mark Prevention
• Ways to deal with stretch marks
• Overview of body care products

What are stretch marks

Stretch marks occur in adolescents when the skin does not have time to adapt to the rapid growth of the body. © Getty Images

Before explaining how stretch marks appear, we recall that they are not dangerous to health. Stretch marks, or striae, are just a cosmetic defect. And now some theory.

• Under the influence of the female sex hormones estrogen in girls, the breasts, buttocks and hips are rounded. Together with them, the skin grows (stretches). The degree of its elasticity is different for everyone and depends on genetics.

• Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches too quickly. For example, if you pumped the calf muscle in the gym. Or during pregnancy dramatically increased breasts. Rapid weight gain can also lead to the formation of stretch marks (although thin people also have them). With strong stretching, the fibers of the dermis are torn.

• The dermis immediately begins to patch up the damaged area with connective tissue, and as a result, we see stretch marks – similar to scars.

What stretch marks look like on your skin

If you have stretch marks, you know exactly what they look like. © Getty Images

Stretch marks are unmistakable. And that’s why.

• Firstly, if you run your palm over the body, then small depressions are felt at the places of overstretching of the skin. This is what striae are.

• Secondly, they are visible visually: they look like uneven lines and are often non-uniformly colored.

Crimson or red stretch marks

These are fresh stretch marks that have recently formed.

Pink

The older the stretch marks, the lighter they are. Pink color says only one thing – you have been living with them for quite some time.

White

Most likely, the stretch marks are at least a year old. As a rule, they become almost invisible after a vacation at sea. Tan visually makes the overall skin tone more even and uniform. Just do not overdo it with sunbathing!

Locations

Locations of stretch marks are varied. However, no matter what they say on the Internet about stretch marks on the face, this is nonsense.

Chest and abdomen

As a rule, the cause of stretch marks on the abdomen and chest is pregnancy or being overweight.

Legs

Stretch marks usually appear on the thighs. But athletes sometimes notice them on the calves when, after intense training, the calf muscles begin to grow.

Who is most susceptible to stretch marks

Alas, women are most susceptible to stretch marks. And they react very sharply to their appearance during and after pregnancy. Although striae do not cause any physical discomfort.

Women

Women develop stretch marks for a number of reasons. The main one, as already mentioned, is pregnancy, during which the skin is prone to overstretching due to an increase in body volume and hormonal changes. Among other factors:

Men

Contrary to popular belief, men also get stretch marks. The reasons for their appearance are as follows:

1. 1

   genetic predisposition;

2. 2

   rapid weight gain;

3. 3
4. 3

   physical activity, when the skin does not keep up with the growth of muscle tissue;

5. 4

   taking certain medications.

Children and adolescents

Adolescents, especially during puberty, also have stretch marks on the chest and thighs. This is due to the influence of hormones, under the influence of which the body is rapidly changing.

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Why stretch marks appear

Most often, stretch marks appear due to a sharp weight gain during pregnancy. © Getty Images

Stretch marks occur when the skin is suddenly stretched for some reason. Why is this happening?

Increase in volume due to growth

Until the age of 16-18, our body grows not only up, but also in breadth. This happens under the influence of many processes. Including hormonal changes. However, other factors also influence the process.

Weight gain or loss

Gained or lost weight without regular exercise, healthy lifestyle and aesthetic procedures? Stretch marks on the body can not be avoided.

Pregnancy

The body transforms as the fetus grows. Not only weight increases, but also volumes. All this can lead to overstretching of the skin.

Heredity

If your mother and grandmother had stretch marks, you are also at risk. Knowing this, you can try to prevent them.

Improper diet

Fast food, fatty and smoked foods, excess alcohol – all these are potential enemies of skin elasticity. Gaining weight is a quick way to get stretch marks. It is better to live in complete harmony with your body.

Dehydration

Dehydration is not a direct cause of stretch marks. However, it significantly reduces the quality of the skin, which loses its softness and elasticity. Drinking enough water is important for beauty and health in general and skin in particular.

Hormonal imbalance

The predominance of certain hormones can cause a rapid increase in body weight, as well as affect the condition of the skin.

Active physical activity in athletes

Physical activity is great. But everything should be in moderation, do not forget. Excessive loads, especially in the first weeks of training, lead to a sharp set of muscle mass. Because of this, the skin on the calves and forearms suffers, first of all. As practice shows, in these places, stretch marks appear in athletes most often.

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Prevention of stretch marks

Proper food, sufficient water, physical activity and home skin care – prevention of stretch marks. © Getty Images

If striae have already appeared, do not flatter yourself with the hope that with home remedies you will defeat them completely and irrevocably. Only hardware cosmetology can cope with this task. So it is better to take preventive measures.

1. 1

   The first thing to do is to review the diet. Exclude sweet, fatty and everything that contributes to weight gain. Instead, include in your diet foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins B, E, iodine and chromium. There are many of them in foods such as fish, avocados, olive oil, nuts, peppers, feijoa, liver, legumes, spinach, broccoli.

2. 2

   Eat more vegetables. They have a lot of fiber. Try to add greens to every dish.

3. 3

   Move more. Half an hour of physical activity a day is the minimum. Don’t be lazy!

4. 4

   Remember to drink water. Of course, everything is individual, but for ease of calculation, we give the generally accepted daily norm: 30 ml of water per kilogram of weight.

5. 5

   Use after shower creams, mousses or gels, as well as moisturizing and nourishing oils.

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Ways to combat stretch marks

Any prevention of stretch marks is more effective in combination with physical activity on all muscle groups. © Getty Images

To prevent stretch marks on the body or make them less noticeable, you need to take care of your skin regularly. Such care is pleasant and does not cause rejection.

Home care

1. 1

   Wraps can be done 1-2 times a week. Mixtures based on algae, caffeine, sea mud not only help to smooth the skin and restore turgor to it, but at the same time fight against orange peel. The effect will be more noticeable if peeling is done before wrapping.

2. 2

   Pinch massage shows good results. To do this, you need oil or fat cream. Take a little cream with your fingers and grasp the small creases on the abdomen or thighs with your thumb and forefinger. Squeeze lightly, lift and release.

Professional help

Some aesthetic procedures reduce stretch marks.

• Well proven dermarollers – causing controlled microtrauma to the skin, they spur tissue cells to regenerate.

• Thermal methods, such as laser therapy, promote skin renewal and are also used in the fight against stretch marks.

• Massage LPG is a combination of vacuum and mechanical massage, as a result adipocytes (fat cells) are broken and the skin surface is leveled.

• Mesotherapy, biorevitalization and ozone therapy are used to soften connective tissues and even out skin relief.

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Overview of body care products

In the fight against stretch marks, all means are good. Your allies are a smart lifestyle and intensive skin care. Moisturize, nourish it, use creams for smoothness, elasticity and firmness. Skin.ru offers a wide range of effective body care products. Our test will help you choose the right care.

© Getty Images

Take the test

Dry to very dry skin milk for babies, children and adults Lipikar Lait, La Roche-Posay

Well hydrated and well cared for skin is less prone to stretch marks.