Stretch marks are a type of scar that can be red, pink or purple lines accross the skin, which then become paler – grey or white. They can also be groups of indented lines usually accross the stomach, hips, breasts, shoulders or the top part of the arms. They are more common in women and can appear during pregnancy. Stretch marks can also affect other groups of people, whose body has experienced rapid change – puberty, growth, an increase in muscle mass.
Stretch marks are caused by breakages in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, which consists of collagen, elastin and fibrilin – proteins, which give the skin its strength and elasticity. Hormonal changes during fast weight gain can also cause stretch marks. Other factors causing stretch marks are medications (oral or local steroids) or medical conditions (problems with the adrenal glands).
Scars are a natural part of the healing process of the skin, but can often cause pain, discomfort or aesthetic problems. Most small scars become almost invisible if they are given appropriate time to recover, but big, dense or deep scars can be treated to improve their appearance. Scars can by caused by any injury to the skin. If the wound is deeper, however, recovery time increases and the scar becomes more visible. Most scars can be treated, and your dermatologist will recommend you the most suitable therapy according to the injury that caused the scar.