A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin to rupture and as the skin heals stretch marks may appear.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a type of scarring that occurs when the skin stretches rapidly, causing the collagen and elastin fibers to break. This can result in thin, reddish or purple lines on the skin that eventually fade to a silvery-white color. Stretch marks can occur on any part of the body but are most common on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks.
Stretch marks are commonly associated with pregnancy, but they can also be caused by rapid weight gain or loss, puberty, or certain medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome or Marfan syndrome. Genetics may also play a role in the development of stretch marks.