Stretch marks are marks that arise thanks to the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis. Despite being a common mark for many women, there are several people who still see these lines as a major aesthetic nuisance on the human body. For those who still think about getting rid of those little marks, a dialogue with their dermatologists who clarified everything about the subject, from the best procedure, forms of prevention, what causes stretch marks to myths and truths. 

What is the streak?

Stretch marks are linear depressions in the dermis, which are composed of areas susceptible to stretching of the dermis. The most frequent are red and purple stretch marks, but the oldest. These marks appear reddish or purple in color. The older ones are white, atrophic and with a slight wrinkle.

What causes stretch marks? Find out why they show up!

Stretch marks appear thanks to the degradation of elastin and collagen fibers present in the dermis, which are the cause of its support and elasticity, which are resistant, but do not last long. According to dermatologists, "if the dermis is stretched excessively, linear wounds, stretch marks appear."

Although the reasons that give rise to the appearance of stretch marks are still quite unknown, the wounds appear after excessive distension of the dermis. This ends up triggering inflammation and the separation of flexible fibers and collagen, consequently forming marks.

Several conditions that favor the appearance of stretch marks:

- rapid increase in youth;

- prolonged use of corticosteroids;

- rapid weight gain or loss;

- pregnancy;

- strong bodybuilding;

- breast implants.

Where do they appear?

Stretch marks can appear anywhere on the body, but they are more frequent in areas where the dermis is stretched, such as:

- Arms;

- Stomach;

- Buttocks;

- Thighs;

- Breasts;

- Coast

What are the signs of stretch marks?

- Reddish or discontinuous lines;

- Itch;

- White lines.

What are the types of stretch marks?

Incidentally, there are no types of stretch marks, but phases: it starts as an inflammation, in which the marks turn reddish or purple, which are called stretch marks themselves. After a while, they heal and turn into white lines called stretch marks.

How to avoid stretch marks?

Stretch marks can be avoided with very practical body care. One of the main ones is to keep control of weight gain to prevent the dermis from having considerable distensions.

- It is essential to keep the human body continuously hydrated with moisturizing dermocosmetics indicated by the dermatologist, thus improving the quality of the dermis;

- drink about 2 liters of water per day;

- Exercise regularly;

- avoid intake of sweets, fats, excess salt;

- Invest in a balanced diet, which integrates fruits, greens and vegetables.

What are the treatments to eliminate stretch marks?

According to dermatologists, treatments are usually aimed at renewing the dermis and increasing collagen production. Consequently, the result is more effective on current stretch marks. Therefore, the best care to soften these marks are:

Exfoliation: serves to remove the superficial dermis, favoring the growth of a completely new one. The ritual also increases the stimulus for the formation of collagen and elastin fibers, improving the quality of the territory's dermis.

Retinoic acid: it is a substance derived from vitamin A and widely used for the cliché procedure for stretch marks. It can make the dermis more sensitive, causing redness and flaking, and should only be used after medical advice. Keeps the area hydrated, which, in addition to softening irritation, maintains the fibers.

Peelings: are similar to acids, however, they usually have a higher concentration of actives that cause peeling and local redness. The procedure may or may not be associated with dermabrasion sessions, which stimulate collagen production, promoting skin uniformity and allowing better penetration of the assets.

 Fractional laser: can also be used and generates small areas of thermal damage, in addition to healing the injured tissue, promoting collagen production.

Myths and truths about stretch marks

It is inevitable to get stretch marks during pregnancy. Myth! It's not inevitable, but it's common for women to get stretch marks during pregnancy. This happens due to increased hormone production associated with weight gain and stretching of the abdomen. However, it is possible to avoid scars at this stage with some very simple precautions such as: adopting a balanced diet, drinking water, practicing physical activity and hydrating the body a lot will help to avoid scars.

 Moisturizing oils can prevent stretch marks.

True! Hydration is key to optimizing collagen production and preventing stretch marks from forming. The oils are super moisturizing and can be found in their pure form or in the formulation of various body creams. Men don't have stretch marks.

Myth! Like women, men also get stretch marks, even though they are less predisposed. The marks usually appear in the arm region in patients who work out or do some physical activity. This happens due to hypertrophy, which is nothing more than the increase in muscle mass of the biceps. The growth strains the fiber responsible for the region's elasticity, causing stretch marks.

Stria has no cure.

True! The stretch mark is an aesthetic injury, without gravity and has no cure. Once formed, it does not completely disappear, but with clinical procedures and daily care, the marks can be softened.

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*The content of this publication has been written for informational purposes only. At no time can they serve to facilitate or provide diagnoses, treatments or suggestions from a professional. Consult your trusted specialist in case of doubt and ask for their acceptance before starting any method.