These marks are a form of scars that have an off-color hue. These scars are caused due to the tearing of the dermis. With time the marks tend to diminish but not go way completely.

Causes of stretch marks:

People hold a misconception that the stretch marks are caused when the skin is stretched rapidly. Some people connect this rapid stretching of the skin with the rapid growth of the body at the time of puberty. Some call it a result of rapid weight gain due to pregnancy or building of muscles. They say at these times the dermis is stretched way beyond its elasticity.

The stretch marks are actually influenced a lot by hormonal changes during conditions like pregnancy and puberty and due to activities like muscle building. They can often also result from obesity as well as rapid muscle growth.

Medically speaking, the stretch marks are caused by the glucocorticoid hormones. These hormones affect the epidermis. They prevent the fibroblasts from forming any collagen and elastin fibers. Both of these things are required to keep the skin taut during rapid growth.

The absence of these two causes a lack of supportive material. Therefore when the skin stretches due to rapid growth it causes the dermal and epidermal layer to tear. In such a case the stretch marks which will appear, will not be removed by even laser therapy.

The stretch marks can also appear if the skin is subjected to a strong stretching force than it can actually handle. It will tear the skin and will cause the marks to appear.

The stretch marks can also appear due to some hormonal changes and genetic factors. These factors can cause the skin to be vulnerable against the stretching forces. Also the change in diet and a heavy exercise routine can also cause stretch marks.

Where do they appear?

Stretch marks tend to appear almost anywhere on the body. However they mostly appear in places that have a larger amount of fat stored. Some of the common locations for the stretch marks are the area near the belly-button, the upper arms, the breasts, the outer and inner thighs and the underarms. They also tend to appear on hips and buttocks.

They first appear as lines that can be reddish as well as purple in color. However they then fade down to a much lighter color. The areas where the stretch marks appear tend to be empty and feel really soft when touched.

Dealing with stretch marks:

There are both natural as well as medical ways of dealing with the stretch marks. The natural ways include using the various things like coconut oil, Aloe Vera extract and olive oil.

The medical treatment includes using various creams and lotions. Laser therapy is also very effective in treating stretch marks.