A stretch mark or striae is a skin condition that causes cosmetic concern to people instead of any significant medical problems.
It is formed in the dermal layer in response to abrupt stretching and shrinking of the connective tissue beyond its flexibility. The rapid alteration causes the rupture of proteins like collagen and elastin, which provide structural support to the skin.
It appears wrinkled, flattened, thin skin with pink hue/purplish/white irregularly shaped bands. It can be found over the abdomen, thighs, breasts, buttocks, upper arms, and back.
Causes of stretch marks
- Pregnancy
- The rapid growth of the body at puberty
- Sudden gain/loss of weight
- Bodybuilding
- Medical conditions include Cushing syndrome, Ehlors-Danlos syndrome, and Marfan syndrome.
- Excessive oral/topical steroid usage
There are many types of striae, such as
- Adolescent striae
- Physiological striae
- Pathological striae
- Striae rubrae
- Striae alba
- Striae atypical
- Striae gravidarum
- Striae distensae