Stretch marks or striae distensae is condition which affect on all age both men and women. It is a mark which are long, narrow streaks or lines on the skin and light in color than the skin tone. It may appear red, pink, or purple in starting and over the time, it fades and become white or silver.
Stretch marks occur when skin goes for rapid stretching and causes the dermal layer to tear and forms these marks. It occurs during the adolescence or pregnancy or because of the rapid weight gain or loss. The most common area are abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, and upper arm.
Epidemiology
Stretch marks is occurring in men and women at all ages. It is more common in women because of the hormone changes during the adolescence and pregnancy. It occurred during the rapid weight gain like puberty and pregnancy. It is because of the rapid expansion of abdominal area. About 50 to 90% of the pregnant women develops these stretch marks.
About 6 to 86% of the stretch marks are appears during the adults during growth spurts. About 70% of adult girls and 40% of boys may have these marks. About 43% of individual who have over weight may have these marks because of the tension and stretch of the skin. Any family history can paly a role to develop these marks.
Anatomy
Pathophysiology
The dermal layer made up of collagen and elastin fibers are important components to provide strength, elasticity and support to skin. In specific conditions like rapid growth or weight gain, because of the excessive stretching these fibers can become weaker and rupture.
The 1st stage of stretch mark is the formation of inflammatory response. It releases inflammatory mediators like chemokines and cytokines. It can lead to red or purple color at the early stage of stretch marks.
Â
Fibroblasts is used in the synthesis of elastin and collagen. The body activates the fibroblasts and leads to the synthesis of collagen and elastin. It repairs the affected tissue. Because of the lack of structural organization in the normal skin, it alters the appearance of affected area.
Collagen fibers go for continuous process of remodelling and turnover and maintain the structural integrity of skin. This process is altered in stretch marks and accumulate the disorganized collagen and fibers.
Stretch marks is linked with the changes in the density of blood vessels and dilation of the affected area and lead to red or purple color during the early stage of the stretch marks.
Etiology
Pregnant women develop these stretch marks because of the rapid expansion of the abdomen. Hormone like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids can weaken the collagen and elastin fibers on the skin. Any family history of stretch marks can increase the changes. Obesity may increase the strain in the skin and lead to the formation of it. Stretch marks are linked with the decrease levels of collagen and elastin.
Genetics
Prognostic Factors
Stretch marks are more likely to develop in individuals with a family history of the condition, as they weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly corticosteroids, can also increase the risk. Pregnant women are more susceptible due to rapid abdomen expansion and hormonal changes. Excessive use of corticosteroids can also decrease skin elasticity.
Clinical History
Stretch marks may occur in different age groups like adolescents, pregnant women, bodybuilders, and athletes. Adolescents may have growth of spurts and changes in hormones during the puberty. Pregnant women may have rapid growth of abdomen and other body parts. Bodybuilders and athletes may have stretch marks because of muscle growth. Rapid weight loos or gain can cause these stretch marks.
Physical Examination
Visual Inspection: The healthcare provider will check for the presence of stretch marks on the affected area.
Palpation: The healthcare provider may touch it gently and assess the texture, depth and structure of the stretch marks.
Location and Distribution: healthcare provider will check distribution of the stretch marks on the body. Common areas are like abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and upper arms.
Duration and History: The doctor will ask about the history of stretch marks like first time appearance, trigger factors and any changes over the time.
Age group
Associated comorbidity
Stretch marks are common during pregnancy specifically in later stages and obesity. Rapid weight gain or loss, growth sports, bodybuilding, or fluctuations in weight can also lead to stretch marks. Adolescents who have growth spurts during puberty can develop stretch marks on different body parts.
Associated activity
Acuity of presentation
Early or Acute Stage: Stretch marks are red, pink, or purple lines which can appear during the early stage because of the increased blood flow and skin inflammation. These lines may feel soft and slightly raised which make them most responsive to treatment.
Intermediate or Subacute Stage: As stretch marks get older, they may fade, become lighter, and silvery-white or grayish and remain visible but less prominent than in acute stage.
Late or Chronic Stage: Chronic stretch marks may lose the color contrast and become white or pale and flatten which make them less noticeable.
Differential Diagnoses
Anetoderma: It is a rare skin disease caused by a loose or sagging skin because of the loss of elastin fibers.
Cutis Laxa: It is a group of connective tissue disease which is caused by loose, tagging and inelastic skin.
Linear Focal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin in the linear bands in the dermis.
Mid-Dermal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin tissue in mid dermal layer of skin.
Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (PXE): It is a hereditary disease which affects the elastin fibers in different tissues.
Hereditary disorder affecting elastic fibers in various tissues.
Striae from Topical Steroidal Abuse: It develop the stretch marks because of the rapid skin stretching because of the weight gain, pregnancy or excessive use of topical steroids.
Laboratory Studies
Imaging Studies
Procedures
Histologic Findings
Staging
Treatment Paradigm
Topical creams and lotions: Topical treatments like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and alpha hydroxy acids is used to improve the skin texture and appearance of skin. It increases the production of collagen and elasticity of skin.
Fractional laser therapy: Fractional laser treatment includes the laser energy to improve the natural synthesis of collagen and promote the skin remodelling. It enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Microneedling: Microneedling uses a tiny needles to create controlled micro injuries in skin. It stimulates the production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy is a medical procedure which uses a direct injection of high concentration of platelets solution derived from the patient blood in the particular area of treatment. The growth factor PRP stimulate the collagen production and skin healing process.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels are a cosmetic procedure which  includes the application of a particular chemical solution on the surface of the skin. It exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and increase the production of the collagen and lead to skin rejuvenation process and reduces the stretch marks.
Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive method which exfoliates the outer layer of the skin and enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Combination therapy: Combination treatment is most effective in some cases. Dermatologist will customize the treatment on the basis of need and severity of the stretch marks.
by Stage
by Modality
Chemotherapy
Radiation Therapy
Surgical Interventions
Hormone Therapy
Immunotherapy
Hyperthermia
Photodynamic Therapy
Stem Cell Transplant
Targeted Therapy
Palliative Care
lifestyle-modifications
Moisturize regularly: Keep the skin hydrated can help to maintain the elasticity and improve the appearance of skin. Use a good quality moisturizer daily.
Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle: A balanced diet which is rich in vitamins and minerals can give a good health to the skin. Do some regular physical activity which can enhance the blood circulation and skin elasticity.
Exfoliation: Exfoliate the skin regularly will help to remove the dead skin and promote the cell growth.
Effectiveness of Topical retinoids to treat Striae distensae
Adapalene: Adapalene is suggested to treat the acne as a topical retinoid. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and enhance the skin texture. It can be used for new, red, purple stretch marks.
Tazarotene: Tazarotene is also a topical retinoid. It is used to treat psoriasis and acne. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Topical Tretinoin: Tretinoin is sued to treat different skin diseases like acne, fine wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Use of Hyaluronic acid in treating Striae distensae
It is used in the cosmetic and dermatological procedures because of the moisturizing and skin plumping properties. Hyaluronic acid injections or topical formulations improves the appearance. It increases the hydration of the skin and production of the collagen. It reduces the stretch marks and improve the skin texture.
Effectiveness of Silicone gels in treating Striae distensae
Silicone gels are used to treat stretch marks. It is necessary to apply silicone gel regularly on affected area. Follow the instruction given by the healthcare provider. Consistent usage is needed for the improvements. Silicone gels are safe and available over the counter without prescription.
Effectiveness of chemical peels in treating Striae distensae
Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
intervention-with-a-procedure
Superficial Dermabrasion: Superficial dermabrasion is a popular cosmetic method which is used to increase the texture of skin. It includes the exfoliation of the outer layer of the skin. It removes the dead cells and promote the production of the collagen and new cells growth. It is used in fine lines, mild acne scars, sun damage and uneven skin tones. It needs short recovery time than the deeper forms of dermabrasion.
Phototherapy: Phototherapy uses different light wavelengths to treat the different skin disease and systemic diseases. It includes the exposure of the effected area of skin to the controlled amount of UV light.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
Non ablative and ablative fractional lasers: These can increase the skin texture and decrease the pigmentation linked with stretch marks. These lasers create a microthermal zones of coagulated or ablated skin by emitting the focused beam of infrared light. Wound healing process trigger by the controller skin injury will improve the overall structure of skin.
phase-of-management
Prevention: The best way to manage stretch marks is to prevent their formation. It can be prevented by:
Maintain healthy and balanced diet
Gradual increase or decrease the weight
Regular exercise will help to improve the blood circulation
Keep the skin hydrated by drinking water and applying moisturizers
Use creams or oils to improve the skin elasticity during the pregnancy or weight gain or loss
Other than this, stretch marks can be treated with different methos like topical treatments, laser and light therapies. Topical treatments stimulate the production of collagen and give skin healing. Laser and light therapies increase the collagen production and skin remodeling. Retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and AHA can improve the appearance of stretch marks. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid retinoids infused creams or gels. Fractional laser therapy creates a microscopic injuries in skin and trigger the natural healing response to body and stimulates the production of collagen. Pulsed dye laser targets the blood vessels in stretch marks and reduces the redness and makes them less noticeable.
»
Home » CAD » Striae Distensae (Stretch Marks)
Striae Distensae (Stretch Marks)
Updated :
November 15, 2024
Stretch marks or striae distensae is condition which affect on all age both men and women. It is a mark which are long, narrow streaks or lines on the skin and light in color than the skin tone. It may appear red, pink, or purple in starting and over the time, it fades and become white or silver.
Stretch marks occur when skin goes for rapid stretching and causes the dermal layer to tear and forms these marks. It occurs during the adolescence or pregnancy or because of the rapid weight gain or loss. The most common area are abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, and upper arm.
Stretch marks is occurring in men and women at all ages. It is more common in women because of the hormone changes during the adolescence and pregnancy. It occurred during the rapid weight gain like puberty and pregnancy. It is because of the rapid expansion of abdominal area. About 50 to 90% of the pregnant women develops these stretch marks.
About 6 to 86% of the stretch marks are appears during the adults during growth spurts. About 70% of adult girls and 40% of boys may have these marks. About 43% of individual who have over weight may have these marks because of the tension and stretch of the skin. Any family history can paly a role to develop these marks.
The dermal layer made up of collagen and elastin fibers are important components to provide strength, elasticity and support to skin. In specific conditions like rapid growth or weight gain, because of the excessive stretching these fibers can become weaker and rupture.
The 1st stage of stretch mark is the formation of inflammatory response. It releases inflammatory mediators like chemokines and cytokines. It can lead to red or purple color at the early stage of stretch marks.
Â
Fibroblasts is used in the synthesis of elastin and collagen. The body activates the fibroblasts and leads to the synthesis of collagen and elastin. It repairs the affected tissue. Because of the lack of structural organization in the normal skin, it alters the appearance of affected area.
Collagen fibers go for continuous process of remodelling and turnover and maintain the structural integrity of skin. This process is altered in stretch marks and accumulate the disorganized collagen and fibers.
Stretch marks is linked with the changes in the density of blood vessels and dilation of the affected area and lead to red or purple color during the early stage of the stretch marks.
Pregnant women develop these stretch marks because of the rapid expansion of the abdomen. Hormone like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids can weaken the collagen and elastin fibers on the skin. Any family history of stretch marks can increase the changes. Obesity may increase the strain in the skin and lead to the formation of it. Stretch marks are linked with the decrease levels of collagen and elastin.
Stretch marks are more likely to develop in individuals with a family history of the condition, as they weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly corticosteroids, can also increase the risk. Pregnant women are more susceptible due to rapid abdomen expansion and hormonal changes. Excessive use of corticosteroids can also decrease skin elasticity.
Stretch marks may occur in different age groups like adolescents, pregnant women, bodybuilders, and athletes. Adolescents may have growth of spurts and changes in hormones during the puberty. Pregnant women may have rapid growth of abdomen and other body parts. Bodybuilders and athletes may have stretch marks because of muscle growth. Rapid weight loos or gain can cause these stretch marks.
Visual Inspection: The healthcare provider will check for the presence of stretch marks on the affected area.
Palpation: The healthcare provider may touch it gently and assess the texture, depth and structure of the stretch marks.
Location and Distribution: healthcare provider will check distribution of the stretch marks on the body. Common areas are like abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and upper arms.
Duration and History: The doctor will ask about the history of stretch marks like first time appearance, trigger factors and any changes over the time.
Stretch marks are common during pregnancy specifically in later stages and obesity. Rapid weight gain or loss, growth sports, bodybuilding, or fluctuations in weight can also lead to stretch marks. Adolescents who have growth spurts during puberty can develop stretch marks on different body parts.
Early or Acute Stage: Stretch marks are red, pink, or purple lines which can appear during the early stage because of the increased blood flow and skin inflammation. These lines may feel soft and slightly raised which make them most responsive to treatment.
Intermediate or Subacute Stage: As stretch marks get older, they may fade, become lighter, and silvery-white or grayish and remain visible but less prominent than in acute stage.
Late or Chronic Stage: Chronic stretch marks may lose the color contrast and become white or pale and flatten which make them less noticeable.
Anetoderma: It is a rare skin disease caused by a loose or sagging skin because of the loss of elastin fibers.
Cutis Laxa: It is a group of connective tissue disease which is caused by loose, tagging and inelastic skin.
Linear Focal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin in the linear bands in the dermis.
Mid-Dermal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin tissue in mid dermal layer of skin.
Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (PXE): It is a hereditary disease which affects the elastin fibers in different tissues.
Hereditary disorder affecting elastic fibers in various tissues.
Striae from Topical Steroidal Abuse: It develop the stretch marks because of the rapid skin stretching because of the weight gain, pregnancy or excessive use of topical steroids.
Topical creams and lotions: Topical treatments like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and alpha hydroxy acids is used to improve the skin texture and appearance of skin. It increases the production of collagen and elasticity of skin.
Fractional laser therapy: Fractional laser treatment includes the laser energy to improve the natural synthesis of collagen and promote the skin remodelling. It enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Microneedling: Microneedling uses a tiny needles to create controlled micro injuries in skin. It stimulates the production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy is a medical procedure which uses a direct injection of high concentration of platelets solution derived from the patient blood in the particular area of treatment. The growth factor PRP stimulate the collagen production and skin healing process.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels are a cosmetic procedure which  includes the application of a particular chemical solution on the surface of the skin. It exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and increase the production of the collagen and lead to skin rejuvenation process and reduces the stretch marks.
Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive method which exfoliates the outer layer of the skin and enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Combination therapy: Combination treatment is most effective in some cases. Dermatologist will customize the treatment on the basis of need and severity of the stretch marks.
Dermatology, General
Moisturize regularly: Keep the skin hydrated can help to maintain the elasticity and improve the appearance of skin. Use a good quality moisturizer daily.
Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle: A balanced diet which is rich in vitamins and minerals can give a good health to the skin. Do some regular physical activity which can enhance the blood circulation and skin elasticity.
Exfoliation: Exfoliate the skin regularly will help to remove the dead skin and promote the cell growth.
Dermatology, General
Adapalene: Adapalene is suggested to treat the acne as a topical retinoid. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and enhance the skin texture. It can be used for new, red, purple stretch marks.
Tazarotene: Tazarotene is also a topical retinoid. It is used to treat psoriasis and acne. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Topical Tretinoin: Tretinoin is sued to treat different skin diseases like acne, fine wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Dermatology, General
It is used in the cosmetic and dermatological procedures because of the moisturizing and skin plumping properties. Hyaluronic acid injections or topical formulations improves the appearance. It increases the hydration of the skin and production of the collagen. It reduces the stretch marks and improve the skin texture.
Dermatology, General
Silicone gels are used to treat stretch marks. It is necessary to apply silicone gel regularly on affected area. Follow the instruction given by the healthcare provider. Consistent usage is needed for the improvements. Silicone gels are safe and available over the counter without prescription.
Dermatology, General
Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
Dermatology, General
Superficial Dermabrasion: Superficial dermabrasion is a popular cosmetic method which is used to increase the texture of skin. It includes the exfoliation of the outer layer of the skin. It removes the dead cells and promote the production of the collagen and new cells growth. It is used in fine lines, mild acne scars, sun damage and uneven skin tones. It needs short recovery time than the deeper forms of dermabrasion.
Phototherapy: Phototherapy uses different light wavelengths to treat the different skin disease and systemic diseases. It includes the exposure of the effected area of skin to the controlled amount of UV light.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
Non ablative and ablative fractional lasers: These can increase the skin texture and decrease the pigmentation linked with stretch marks. These lasers create a microthermal zones of coagulated or ablated skin by emitting the focused beam of infrared light. Wound healing process trigger by the controller skin injury will improve the overall structure of skin.
Prevention: The best way to manage stretch marks is to prevent their formation. It can be prevented by:
Maintain healthy and balanced diet
Gradual increase or decrease the weight
Regular exercise will help to improve the blood circulation
Keep the skin hydrated by drinking water and applying moisturizers
Use creams or oils to improve the skin elasticity during the pregnancy or weight gain or loss
Other than this, stretch marks can be treated with different methos like topical treatments, laser and light therapies. Topical treatments stimulate the production of collagen and give skin healing. Laser and light therapies increase the collagen production and skin remodeling. Retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and AHA can improve the appearance of stretch marks. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid retinoids infused creams or gels. Fractional laser therapy creates a microscopic injuries in skin and trigger the natural healing response to body and stimulates the production of collagen. Pulsed dye laser targets the blood vessels in stretch marks and reduces the redness and makes them less noticeable.
Stretch marks or striae distensae is condition which affect on all age both men and women. It is a mark which are long, narrow streaks or lines on the skin and light in color than the skin tone. It may appear red, pink, or purple in starting and over the time, it fades and become white or silver.
Stretch marks occur when skin goes for rapid stretching and causes the dermal layer to tear and forms these marks. It occurs during the adolescence or pregnancy or because of the rapid weight gain or loss. The most common area are abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, and upper arm.
Stretch marks is occurring in men and women at all ages. It is more common in women because of the hormone changes during the adolescence and pregnancy. It occurred during the rapid weight gain like puberty and pregnancy. It is because of the rapid expansion of abdominal area. About 50 to 90% of the pregnant women develops these stretch marks.
About 6 to 86% of the stretch marks are appears during the adults during growth spurts. About 70% of adult girls and 40% of boys may have these marks. About 43% of individual who have over weight may have these marks because of the tension and stretch of the skin. Any family history can paly a role to develop these marks.
The dermal layer made up of collagen and elastin fibers are important components to provide strength, elasticity and support to skin. In specific conditions like rapid growth or weight gain, because of the excessive stretching these fibers can become weaker and rupture.
The 1st stage of stretch mark is the formation of inflammatory response. It releases inflammatory mediators like chemokines and cytokines. It can lead to red or purple color at the early stage of stretch marks.
Â
Fibroblasts is used in the synthesis of elastin and collagen. The body activates the fibroblasts and leads to the synthesis of collagen and elastin. It repairs the affected tissue. Because of the lack of structural organization in the normal skin, it alters the appearance of affected area.
Collagen fibers go for continuous process of remodelling and turnover and maintain the structural integrity of skin. This process is altered in stretch marks and accumulate the disorganized collagen and fibers.
Stretch marks is linked with the changes in the density of blood vessels and dilation of the affected area and lead to red or purple color during the early stage of the stretch marks.
Pregnant women develop these stretch marks because of the rapid expansion of the abdomen. Hormone like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids can weaken the collagen and elastin fibers on the skin. Any family history of stretch marks can increase the changes. Obesity may increase the strain in the skin and lead to the formation of it. Stretch marks are linked with the decrease levels of collagen and elastin.
Stretch marks are more likely to develop in individuals with a family history of the condition, as they weaken the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly corticosteroids, can also increase the risk. Pregnant women are more susceptible due to rapid abdomen expansion and hormonal changes. Excessive use of corticosteroids can also decrease skin elasticity.
Stretch marks may occur in different age groups like adolescents, pregnant women, bodybuilders, and athletes. Adolescents may have growth of spurts and changes in hormones during the puberty. Pregnant women may have rapid growth of abdomen and other body parts. Bodybuilders and athletes may have stretch marks because of muscle growth. Rapid weight loos or gain can cause these stretch marks.
Visual Inspection: The healthcare provider will check for the presence of stretch marks on the affected area.
Palpation: The healthcare provider may touch it gently and assess the texture, depth and structure of the stretch marks.
Location and Distribution: healthcare provider will check distribution of the stretch marks on the body. Common areas are like abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and upper arms.
Duration and History: The doctor will ask about the history of stretch marks like first time appearance, trigger factors and any changes over the time.
Stretch marks are common during pregnancy specifically in later stages and obesity. Rapid weight gain or loss, growth sports, bodybuilding, or fluctuations in weight can also lead to stretch marks. Adolescents who have growth spurts during puberty can develop stretch marks on different body parts.
Early or Acute Stage: Stretch marks are red, pink, or purple lines which can appear during the early stage because of the increased blood flow and skin inflammation. These lines may feel soft and slightly raised which make them most responsive to treatment.
Intermediate or Subacute Stage: As stretch marks get older, they may fade, become lighter, and silvery-white or grayish and remain visible but less prominent than in acute stage.
Late or Chronic Stage: Chronic stretch marks may lose the color contrast and become white or pale and flatten which make them less noticeable.
Anetoderma: It is a rare skin disease caused by a loose or sagging skin because of the loss of elastin fibers.
Cutis Laxa: It is a group of connective tissue disease which is caused by loose, tagging and inelastic skin.
Linear Focal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin in the linear bands in the dermis.
Mid-Dermal Elastosis: It is caused by the accumulation of the abnormal elastin tissue in mid dermal layer of skin.
Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (PXE): It is a hereditary disease which affects the elastin fibers in different tissues.
Hereditary disorder affecting elastic fibers in various tissues.
Striae from Topical Steroidal Abuse: It develop the stretch marks because of the rapid skin stretching because of the weight gain, pregnancy or excessive use of topical steroids.
Topical creams and lotions: Topical treatments like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and alpha hydroxy acids is used to improve the skin texture and appearance of skin. It increases the production of collagen and elasticity of skin.
Fractional laser therapy: Fractional laser treatment includes the laser energy to improve the natural synthesis of collagen and promote the skin remodelling. It enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Microneedling: Microneedling uses a tiny needles to create controlled micro injuries in skin. It stimulates the production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy is a medical procedure which uses a direct injection of high concentration of platelets solution derived from the patient blood in the particular area of treatment. The growth factor PRP stimulate the collagen production and skin healing process.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels are a cosmetic procedure which  includes the application of a particular chemical solution on the surface of the skin. It exfoliate the outer layer of the skin and increase the production of the collagen and lead to skin rejuvenation process and reduces the stretch marks.
Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive method which exfoliates the outer layer of the skin and enhances the skin texture and reduces the stretch marks.
Combination therapy: Combination treatment is most effective in some cases. Dermatologist will customize the treatment on the basis of need and severity of the stretch marks.
Dermatology, General
Moisturize regularly: Keep the skin hydrated can help to maintain the elasticity and improve the appearance of skin. Use a good quality moisturizer daily.
Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle: A balanced diet which is rich in vitamins and minerals can give a good health to the skin. Do some regular physical activity which can enhance the blood circulation and skin elasticity.
Exfoliation: Exfoliate the skin regularly will help to remove the dead skin and promote the cell growth.
Dermatology, General
Adapalene: Adapalene is suggested to treat the acne as a topical retinoid. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and enhance the skin texture. It can be used for new, red, purple stretch marks.
Tazarotene: Tazarotene is also a topical retinoid. It is used to treat psoriasis and acne. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Topical Tretinoin: Tretinoin is sued to treat different skin diseases like acne, fine wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin. It promotes the cell turnover and production of collagen and reduces the stretch marks in early stage.
Dermatology, General
It is used in the cosmetic and dermatological procedures because of the moisturizing and skin plumping properties. Hyaluronic acid injections or topical formulations improves the appearance. It increases the hydration of the skin and production of the collagen. It reduces the stretch marks and improve the skin texture.
Dermatology, General
Silicone gels are used to treat stretch marks. It is necessary to apply silicone gel regularly on affected area. Follow the instruction given by the healthcare provider. Consistent usage is needed for the improvements. Silicone gels are safe and available over the counter without prescription.
Dermatology, General
Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
Dermatology, General
Superficial Dermabrasion: Superficial dermabrasion is a popular cosmetic method which is used to increase the texture of skin. It includes the exfoliation of the outer layer of the skin. It removes the dead cells and promote the production of the collagen and new cells growth. It is used in fine lines, mild acne scars, sun damage and uneven skin tones. It needs short recovery time than the deeper forms of dermabrasion.
Phototherapy: Phototherapy uses different light wavelengths to treat the different skin disease and systemic diseases. It includes the exposure of the effected area of skin to the controlled amount of UV light.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are specialized treatments which use chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, to stimulate the production of the collagen ad increase the appearance of the stretch marks. The effectiveness if limited specifically for old or mature marks. It is more effective on fresh or new marks. Common chemical peels are like glycolic acid or lactic acid peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is used.
Non ablative and ablative fractional lasers: These can increase the skin texture and decrease the pigmentation linked with stretch marks. These lasers create a microthermal zones of coagulated or ablated skin by emitting the focused beam of infrared light. Wound healing process trigger by the controller skin injury will improve the overall structure of skin.
Prevention: The best way to manage stretch marks is to prevent their formation. It can be prevented by:
Maintain healthy and balanced diet
Gradual increase or decrease the weight
Regular exercise will help to improve the blood circulation
Keep the skin hydrated by drinking water and applying moisturizers
Use creams or oils to improve the skin elasticity during the pregnancy or weight gain or loss
Other than this, stretch marks can be treated with different methos like topical treatments, laser and light therapies. Topical treatments stimulate the production of collagen and give skin healing. Laser and light therapies increase the collagen production and skin remodeling. Retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and AHA can improve the appearance of stretch marks. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must avoid retinoids infused creams or gels. Fractional laser therapy creates a microscopic injuries in skin and trigger the natural healing response to body and stimulates the production of collagen. Pulsed dye laser targets the blood vessels in stretch marks and reduces the redness and makes them less noticeable.
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medtigo points is our unique point redemption system created to award users for interacting on our site. These points can be redeemed for special discounts on the medtigo marketplace as well as towards the membership cost itself.
Community Forum post/reply = 5 points
*Redemption of points can occur only through the medtigo marketplace, courses, or simulation system. Money will not be credited to your bank account. 10 points = $1.
All Your Certificates in One Place
When you have your licenses, certificates and CMEs in one place, it's easier to track your career growth. You can easily share these with hospitals as well, using your medtigo app.
