6 common causes of stretch marks

We all probably have stretch marks somewhere or the other on our body with the most common areas being the arms, thighs, buttocks and stomach. These whitish-purplish lines are not the best looking feature of our body and we often try and conceal them under clothes. The sad part is, once we have stretch marks, we cannot completely get rid of them. In order to prevent these, we need to know the reasons why we have them. Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, a dermatologist, tells us the common causes of stretch marks.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of stretch marks. Often women find their skin stretched out after delivery and these marks seldom fade away. This is because the skin stretches out as your body expands in size and if it isn’t properly hydrated and moisturised, it causes these lines to appear. Therefore, pregnant women are often advised to start applying a moisturising lotion a few months into their pregnancy to avoid stretch marks later.

Rapid weight gain

If you are someone who wants to bulk up in a short period of time, you better be prepared for the appearance of stretch marks on your skin. When our body mass increases rapidly, the body secrets more cortisol which results in stretch marks. It is best to use a moisturiser and gain weight at a moderate pace.

Sudden weight loss

Even losing too much weight in too less time can be the reason for the stretch marks all over your body. This sudden change can shock your skin and it reacts by forming lines. So make sure you pace out your weight loss goal in a manner that is safe for your skin as well as your body or else you won’t be able to flaunt it despite losing all the flab.

Use of excess steroidal creams

Creams containing steroids are often a cause for stretch marks when used in excess. If you cannot do without them, it is best to use a hydrating moisturiser along with it to prevent the occurrence of stretch marks.

Hormonal imbalance

A change in your hormonal imbalance can also cause stretch marks on your body especially if it is a rapid change or imbalance. This change is often due to an underlying medical condition such as Cushing’s syndrome.

Hereditary

If your stretch marks aren’t due to the above factors, they are probably hereditary. Many people suffer from Marfan syndrome or Ehler-Danlos syndrome which are both genetic disorders of the connective tissue.

Even though stretch marks cannot be completely erased, you can prevent them or lighten them with the use of certain home remedies and cosmetic treatments. If you want to get rid of them, you should opt for a treatment option when the marks are pink or red as they can be treated better. White or silvery lines are more difficult to treat.

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