Stretch marks or striae (singular stria) are basically scars on the skin with a coloration which makes them stand out against our natural skin colors. The Dermis is a layer of the skin with elastic properties, and the stretching of this layer. Many people all over the world suffer stretch marks for a variety of reasons at different ages, however, these marks are generally associated with stretching of the skin and hormonal changes within the human body. Common cures, discussed below include many traditional/ medical means as well as alternative ones such as blue light therapy.

Reasons for stretch marks

There can be several reasons for stretch marks Pregnancy: the stretching of the skin while women are pregnant causes the dermis layer to stretch and tear in places. These tears leave elongated thin scars on the skin and after the skin resorts to its original tautness, they appear on the surface, appearing discolored.

Rapid Weight gain and / or loss; losing or gaining weight rapidly also causes similar types or marks on the skin, especially on the lower abdomen, buttocks and thighs.

Rapid growth (in height) during puberty; growth during this period is also known to cause stretch marks in younger teenagers.

Sports / Body building; includes physical activity that causes the stretching of the skin due to the repeated movement and the growth of muscles and also, similarly, leaves marks on the skin.

Prevention and cures

Prevention during pregnancy: studies have found that application of creams (Trofolastin- containing Centella asiatica extract, vitamin E, and collagen-elastin hydrolysates) and (Verum - containing vitamin E, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, elastin and menthol) are seen to prevent stretch marks to a great extent compared to when no cream is used.

Cures and reduction of the appearance of stretch marks: Stretch marks are commonly cures or faded out (so as not to appear so vividly) using techniques such as photodynamic - blue light therapy, laser therapy, dermabrasion (the removal of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin), and the use of prescription retinoids.

Laser: Some studies have shown that the use of pulsed laser exposure is helpful in at least 80% of the trial patients.

Tummy-Tuck: a tummy tuck is the removal of abdominal skin - the part where stretch marks occur, especially after pregnancy.

Blue-light therapy: blue light therapy is a well known cure for discoloring skin afflictions and problems including acne scars. It is also one of the most effective new treatments for stretch marks. The process begins with micro-dermabrasion (removal of excess dead cells on the skin surface. A photosensitizing agent is then applied to the skin and allowed to set for about half an hour after which it is washed off, the skin is dried and treated, most commonly with blue light of about 420nm wavelength.

References

Wikipedia

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