Stretch Marks on the Body

Stretch marks pose no danger to health, do not cause any bodily dysfunctions, and are considered purely an aesthetic issue. However, due to their pronounced visual unattractiveness, stretch marks can affect a person’s mental well-being. They often cause concern among women and young girls, leading to low self-esteem and introversion. If accepting them is difficult, it’s worth consulting dermatologists or cosmetologists to learn how to remove stretch marks and reduce the risk of their recurrence.

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks on the skin are a type of atrophic scar. They appear on various areas of the body, but predominantly in regions with fat deposits. These are single or multiple streaks on the skin, differing in width, depth, and color depending on their age and cause. Upon touch, they feel like grooves with uneven edges. Rarely, they may cause discomfort, such as itching or slight burning sensations. Due to disrupted melanin production, these areas of the skin do not tan, making them more noticeable in the summer.

Removing stretch marks at home is impossible, as cosmetic products cannot initiate the deep skin regeneration processes required. Such products are recommended for prevention and as a supplementary part of comprehensive treatments, including laser resurfacing, microneedling RF lifting, and other hardware techniques.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, or striae, are micro-tears in the dermis caused by excessive stretching, leading to the breakdown of collagen and elastin without new protein synthesis. Stretch marks can appear on the bodies of men, women, and even children, with individual causes in each case. Triggers include hormonal changes, excessive stretching due to weight gain or physical strain, illnesses and medication therapy, and age-related changes.

Before Removing Stretch Marks on the Abdomen, Chest, or Legs, It’s Important to Understand Their Causes:

1. Hormonal Changes and Imbalances. These are common in pregnant women and teenagers. Stretch marks during pregnancy, puberty, endocrine disorders, or after hormonal therapy occur due to elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol inhibits fibroblast synthesis, which is crucial for collagen production.
2. Menopause. During this period, stretch marks result from a double impact—hormonal changes and weight gain. In mature women, skin that has lost its elasticity easily “tears” under stretching.
3. Weight Changes. Rapid weight fluctuations, whether gaining or losing weight, as well as excessive reliance on mono-diets, can lead to stretch marks.
4. Muscle Growth. For athletes, stretch marks arise due to two factors—an increase in muscle volume and the use of steroid medications. Mechanical stretching of the skin in specific areas during repetitive exercises also contributes.
5. Cushing’s Syndrome. This condition is associated with excessive cortisol production, which reduces skin elasticity, causing stretch marks to form, even on the face.
6. Marfan Syndrome. A disorder that alters the structure of the skin, making it more prone to stretch marks.

With age, the production of elastin and collagen slows down, increasing susceptibility to stretch marks. Genetics also play a role in the likelihood of developing stretch marks.

Stretch Marks During Weight Loss

Proper weight loss involves gradual weight reduction with sustainable results. During this period, it’s important to address factors that may contribute to the development of stretch marks, including:

• rapid weight loss caused by an excessive calorie deficit;
• vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to an unbalanced diet;
• inadequate hydration;
• weight fluctuations caused by diet failures;
• hormonal fluctuations.

At the Start of Obesity Treatment it is essential to consult a doctor regarding the prevention or removal of stretch marks while they are still “fresh” and can be corrected. The LeoDerm Clinic offers an advanced technology for eliminating stretch marks on the body — BI-ONE Life Touch Therapy. This method is based on thermal stimulation of cells, triggering the following processes:

• production of elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid;
• synthesis of fibroblasts;
• formation of new blood vessels.

This method delivers excellent results — not only do stretch marks diminish, but they also regain sensitivity to UV rays and can tan naturally.

Stretch Marks During and After Pregnancy

Stretch marks during pregnancy are a very common issue. They most often appear on the abdomen and breasts due to the increase in size of these areas. However, even expectant mothers who have not gained excess weight may notice stretch marks on their legs, arms, or buttocks. Post-pregnancy stretch marks occur due to hormonal changes in the body, dietary habits, and reduced physical activity. Around 70% of pregnant women experience this problem, even with minimal weight gain, and are familiar with how stretch marks appear on the breasts during and after breastfeeding.

Stretch Marks in Teenagers

Stretch marks in teenagers are caused by hormonal changes and physical development. Between the ages of 14 and 16, boys and girls undergo significant body transformations, with periods of rapid growth alternating with weight gain.

In teenage girls, hips may widen, leading to the appearance of red stretch marks on the legs and buttocks. For teenage boys, stretch marks on the back may form as their shoulders broaden.

Not all teenagers experience this issue. Factors such as genetics, skin type, hormonal balance, growth rate, predisposition to excess weight, diet, and physical activity play a significant role.

Types of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are skin injuries. Depending on the layer affected, they can be classified into two types:

• Epidermal. Limited to the upper layer (epidermis). These are usually thin, white lines.
• Dermal. Affect the deeper layer of the skin (dermis). These are wider, deeper grooves with more pronounced color and texture.

Based on this distinction, a dermatologist or cosmetologist selects the most effective method to remove stretch marks and achieve the best possible results.

What Do Stretch Marks Look Like?

Stretch marks on the skin have a linear or stripe-like shape and can appear as single marks or clusters of multiple lines. Their color and texture change depending on their stage of development:

• Early Stage (Formation). Pink or red stretch marks that are sensitive to mechanical or thermal effects, elastic, and not rough.
• Second Stage (Deformation). The grooves become wider and deeper, with a blue or purple coloration.
• Third Stage (Scarring). Pearl-white or white stretch marks that are noticeable to the touch. On light skin, they are almost invisible, but they stand out against tanned skin.

The treatment approach for stretch marks depends on their age; newer stretch marks are easier to remove.

Where Can Stretch Marks Appear?

In theory, stretch marks can appear on any area of the body, but they are more common in places where the skin is thinner, more delicate, and subject to stretching. The most frequent locations for skin imperfections are:

• stretch marks on the abdomen;
• stretch marks on the back, shoulders, and arms;
• stretch marks on the chest and under the armpits;
• stretch marks on the buttocks and the lumbosacral area;
• stretch marks on the thighs.

In some medical conditions, stretch marks may also develop on the neck, décolletage, and even the face.

How to Prevent Stretch Marks

The key to preventing stretch marks is eliminating triggers. Individuals prone to sudden weight changes, those with endocrine disorders, pregnant women, and teenagers should pay extra attention to preventive measures. Recommended actions include:

• weight management;
• a balanced diet;
• taking collagen supplements and vitamin-mineral complexes;
• maintaining proper hydration;
• regular physical activity;
• skin hydration using creams and lotions;
• contrast showers and massages.

Pregnant women should also wear supportive maternity bands and comfortable undergarments during breastfeeding.

How to Remove Stretch Marks

There are no effective methods for completely removing stretch marks at home, but home care can significantly enhance the results of laser resurfacing. A dermatologist may recommend massages and cosmetic products that can help make stretch marks less noticeable, improve skin texture, and prevent further development by providing hydration and reducing inflammation.

Laser Resurfacing of Stretch Marks: What Is It?

Laser resurfacing of stretch marks is an effective method for correcting the condition of the skin in scarred areas. Under the influence of the laser, several processes occur in the tissues:

• stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis;
• restoration of blood circulation.

As a result, tissue regeneration occurs, and the skin regains its natural color and texture.

LeoDerm Clinic specializes in the treatment of stretch marks on the skin. Our cosmetologists will select the optimal procedure for the quick and effective removal of skin imperfections:

• classic resurfacing;
• fractional resurfacing with LightScan;
• microneedle RF lifting.

To maintain results after treatment, massages and cosmetic products can be used, as they promote collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis:

• retinol (vitamin A) creams;
• products with Centella Asiatica;
• gels with Aloe concentrate.

It is also recommended to include foods high in proteins, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D in your diet.

How Are Stretch Marks Removed with Laser?

Laser removal of stretch marks is a highly effective method for treating this cosmetic imperfection, requiring no preparation or rehabilitation. During the consultation, the cosmetologist will assess the condition of your skin and select the procedure that suits you best. To achieve the best results, it is important to follow all the dermatologist’s recommendations for at-home skincare.