What is it about?

Stretch marks are grooves or indentations in the skin that appear as red or white lines. They appear suddenly and usually become a mark that is difficult to erase.

They occur when a rupture occurs in the collagen and elastic fibers of the skin, when they no longer resist the increase in volume.

The main causes are: very sudden weight changes, which explains why they arise during pregnancy; hormonal changes, especially during puberty; genetics, since these brands have a high hereditary and racial component. Skin type also influences: dehydrated skin is less resistant to stretching. The use of topical and oral corticosteroids can also promote its appearance.

There are two types of stretch marks: red or recent ones and white or mature ones. Stretch marks appear as linear areas of thin skin with a red or purplish color, sometimes slightly raised, and may be accompanied by localized itching (they usually respond better to treatment). White stretch marks appear as white or pearly linear areas, flat or even slightly depressed (from a longer period of evolution)

Stretch marks usually form on the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, arms, back and breasts.

HOW ARE THEY TREATED?

The duration of stretch marks is a key factor in choosing treatment. The best time to treat them is when they have just appeared and are red striae, since early diagnosis and early treatment in some cases can slow their evolution. While in pearly white stretch marks, which are already scarring consequences, the treatments will be aimed at making them less visible.