Stretch marks (striae) are areas of the skin that look like lines or stripes.
They can also result from certain diseases.
Stretch marks often appear on the breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and low back.
Sutthiwat Srikhrueadam / Getty Images
These marks are scars and never disappear completely.
This article discusses the causes and most effective treatment options for stretch marks.
Sutthiwat Srikhrueadam / Getty Images
What Do Stretch Marks Look Like?
Do Stretch Marks Go Away?
Stretch marks do not go away completely.
They arescarsthat can fade over time but do not disappear.
Stretch marks occur when the skin is overstretched quickly.
When this happens, the protein that makes up the tissue in the skin (collagen) ruptures.
As it heals, stretch marks form.
Certain disorders may cause stretch marks over time.
Cause
The cause of your stretch marks can determine how quickly they fade.
Stretch marks are common after rapid weight gain, as the extra weight stretches the skin.
Like any bang out of scar, stretch marks naturally fade over time.
Stretch Mark Formation
Stretch marks form when the skin is stretched very quickly.
Then as the skin begins to heal, stretch marks appear.
Pregnancy is a common time for stretch marks because of rapid weight gain and fluctuating hormone levels.
Your risk of experiencing stretch marks is higher if these marks run in your family.
It is important to note that many products claim to remove stretch marks without any evidence.
Many products contain retinol, which is unsafe for your baby.
Tattooing
Another emerging option is using tattoos to camouflage the stretch marks.
This can reduce the stretch marks' appearance.
Can Tanning Hide Stretch Marks?
In the past, people believed that tanning was an effective treatment for stretch marks.
Dermatologists do not recommend tanning because it raises the risk of skin cancer.
It also does not treat stretch marks.
Tanning makes your skin darker but does not darken stretch marks.
This makes them more noticeable.
A self-tanning product darkens your skin and stretch marks, so trying a topical tanning product may be helpful.
Prevention
It is often not possible to prevent stretch marks.
If you’re free to avoid rapid weight gain, this will lower your risk of stretch marks.
However, there are no proven ways to prevent stretch marks completely.
Many over-the-counter products that claim to treat stretch marks do not work.
Products that contain centella (a natural herb) or hyaluronic acid may sometimes prevent stretch marks.
Its important to note that even though they are common, stretch marks bother many people.
Summary
Stretch marks look like lines or stripes on the skin.
They are usually slightly raised from the skin and may feel itchy.
Stretch marks tend to fade over time but will not disappear completely.
Many over-the-counter products claim to treat stretch marks but are not effective.
See your healthcare provider or dermatologist for the best treatment options for you.
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