Brief Explanation of Stretch Marks
The dermatologic name of stretch marks is “striae.” This is a scar-like formation that appears, usually as an indented lines in places were changes in the body occur faster than the skin grows.
Description
Stretch marks are actually a literal tearing of the dermis (inner layer of skin, beneath the epidermis). These formations usually are present in the form of lines that are slightly different color than the skin. Usually they resemble reddish or purplish scratches in the skin, but they are not cuts.
These marks are often most noticeable in pregnant women or in those who are reaching puberty. They take place during times of accelarated growth spurts, in terms of muscle mass, weight gain, or body height.
Body builders might also might notice the appearance of these scar-like lines on their bodies. This happens for similar reasons as in the cases of pregnant women or teenagers. Body builders who experience stretch marks usually notice them after they experience rapid muscle growth.
They often first appear on people in a darker shade. However, in time they often will fade away after becoming lighter and lighter.
Stretch marks could appear anywhere on the body. However, they often occur in locations where the most fat is stored. This usually includes the breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs, hips, or buttocks.
Cause
The formation of these skin impressions is usually caused by a series of glucocorticoid hormones which prevent the skin from forming collagen and elastin fibers. Hence, the prevention of preserving the youthfulness of the skin is interrupted.
The lack of support caused by invasive hormones causes tearing in either the dermis, epidermis, or both. If both layers of skin were affected these blemishes cannot be laser removed.
Health Risks
These impressions that occure in many people for different reasons are not a major health risk. They also do not prevent the body from being able to repair or regenerate itself. These scar-like lines also do not interrupt normal bodily functioning in any way.
At the very least they would affect a person’s mental health slightly, because they are embarrassing. They might have the same affect on people who may experience the onslaught of an occassional pimple or a case of acne.
Duration
There is no telling how long stretch marks may remain on the skin. There also is no way to predict these impressions and lines will appear. Taking good care of the body and skin may help prevent them from forming, though.
Removal or Cover-Up
Stretch marks can be removed by way of medical surgery, laser treatment, or microabrasion. These procedures are usually administered by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
They might also be covered up with body make-up or sunless tanning solution. People who try this solution will usually test the chosen product on a inconspicous location of the skin. This will prevent even further embarrassment.
Regular tanning either artifically or naturally is likely to not help at all. Besides, excess exposure to UV rays and tanning beds could cause further skin problems. Therefore, do not think that this will help.
