What Causes Skin Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, or striae, typically occur in various regions of the body due to rapid weight gain, resulting in intense and continuous tension in the skin’s underlying tissues. This stretching triggers certain skin cells to release chemical substances, leading to damage in the collagen and elastic fibers of the deeper skin layers.

When Do Stretch Marks Appear?

Stretch marks can develop in pregnant women on the abdomen and breasts, in bodybuilders on the shoulders, during adolescence in rapidly growing body areas, and in individuals who experience significant weight gain. Additionally, long-term use of corticosteroids or conditions that cause excessive cortisol production in the body, such as Cushing’s disease, can lead to the development of stretch marks.

Who is Most Affected by Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are more common in women. They can be seen in approximately 90% of pregnant women, 70% of teenage girls during puberty, and 40% of teenage boys, particularly those involved in sports. Stretch marks predominantly affect adolescents, pregnant women, and individuals with overactive adrenal glands.

How Do Stretch Marks Look?

Early stretch marks appear as pink, itchy lines that rise slightly above the skin’s surface. Over time, they turn white and become sunken into the skin. They can vary in length and be between 1-10 mm wide. Some stretch marks may fade and disappear over time.

Which Areas of the Body Are Most Affected by Stretch Marks?

In pregnant women, the abdomen and breasts are primarily affected. In adolescents, boys may experience stretch marks in the armpits, thighs, and tailbone area, while girls are more likely to have them on the hips and breasts. Stretch marks can also appear in other body regions, such as behind the knees and upper arms. Long-term corticosteroid use can lead to deeper, wider, and more widespread stretch marks.

What Creams Are Used for Stretch Mark Treatment?

Creams known to be effective in treating stretch marks often contain substances that can increase collagen and elastin in the skin. Creams containing Vitamin A have been found to be quite effective when used regularly for 3-6 months. Due to their potential to irritate the skin, these creams may need to be applied every other day or only on specific days of the week. Other options include creams with Vitamin C, fruit acids, peptides, growth factors, stem cells, and antioxidants. Fractional laser and fractional radiofrequency treatments provide the most effective results.

How is Stretch Mark Treatment Performed with Fractional Laser and Radiofrequency?

These treatments should be conducted in a minimum of 4-6 sessions, spaced 3-6 weeks apart. Treatment sessions can be increased based on the response obtained.

What Symptoms May Occur After Stretch Mark Treatment with Fractional Laser and Radiofrequency?

After the procedures, patients may experience redness and crusting that lasts 1-10 days, depending on the device used and the area treated. Care should be taken with laser and light systems to avoid pigmentation in individuals with darker skin tones. Fractional radiofrequency can be applied to all skin types.

What Other Methods Are Used for Stretch Mark Treatment through Skin Renewal?

Methods that rejuvenate the skin, such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), stem cell therapy, mesolift, dermaroller, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, can be used in stretch mark treatment because they increase collagen and elastin. These treatments can yield even better results when combined with or alternated with laser, light, and radiofrequency therapies. Generally, these methods have no side effects.