Stretch Marks: Why They Appear and Which Treatments Help Improve Them

Stretch marks are very common: they appear in most people at some point in life and are not a health problem. Even so, many people are bothered by them and look to improve them. Here it is worth being honest from the start: no treatment erases them completely, but there are options that improve their appearance, colour and texture considerably, especially if you act early. In this article we explain why they appear, what distinguishes the red ones from the white ones, what creams can really do and which aesthetic treatments help.

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are a type of scar that forms on the skin when it stretches faster than its fibres (collagen and elastin) can adapt. When that support structure "breaks", a linear mark is left. At first they usually have a reddish or purplish tone and, over time, they become lighter and pearly.

They appear most often in areas where the skin stretches: abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, chest and arms. They are not dangerous or contagious; they are an aesthetic change.

Types of Stretch Marks: Red, White and Purple

The colour indicates the "age" of the stretch mark, and that matters because the more recent ones respond better to treatment.

• Red stretch marks. They are recent. Their colour is due to there still being blood supply in the area. This is the best time to treat them.

• Purple or violet stretch marks. Also recent, with a more intense tone depending on the skin type.

• White stretch marks. They are old and already scarred. Improving their appearance is harder, although also possible up to a point.

The practical conclusion is clear: the sooner they are treated, the better the results you can expect.

Why Stretch Marks Appear

They appear through a combination of skin stretching and hormonal and genetic factors.

Stretch Marks in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most frequent causes, due to the stretching of the abdomen and hormonal changes. Genetic predisposition has a big influence: not all women develop them to the same degree, even if they care for their skin equally.

Growth, Weight Changes and Sport

Adolescent growth spurts, weight gains and losses and a rapid increase in muscle mass can also cause them, because in all those cases the skin stretches quickly.

Stretch Marks on the Chest

The chest is another common area, due to the changes in volume associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight variations.

Creams and Oils for Stretch Marks: What They Can Do

This is one of the most frequent doubts, so let's be clear. Creams and oils moisturise and keep the skin flexible, which can help above all in prevention and with very recent stretch marks. Their effect on stretch marks that have already formed, and especially on old white ones, is limited. They are good basic care, but they do not make an established stretch mark disappear. Be wary of any product that promises to eliminate them completely.

Can Stretch Marks Be Removed?

Being realistic: they cannot be "removed" in the sense of erasing them without a trace. What is possible is to noticeably improve their appearance, colour and texture, making them less visible. The result depends on the type of stretch mark, how old it is and the treatment chosen. Framing the goal as "improving" rather than "eliminating" avoids disappointment.

Treatments at the Clinic

In consultation there are treatments that stimulate collagen production and improve the quality of the skin in the area of the stretch marks. Depending on the case, device-based and skin-stimulation techniques are considered, alone or combined, and the most appropriate one for your type of stretch mark is chosen after an assessment. You can learn about our options in the device-based aesthetics and injectable aesthetics sections.

The number of sessions and the approach are defined individually, because treating recent red stretch marks is not the same as treating white ones that are years old.

How to Prevent Stretch Marks

You cannot always avoid them (genetics weigh), but some measures reduce the risk:

• Keep the skin well moisturised, especially in stages of change (pregnancy, growth).

• Avoid sharp ups and downs in weight.

• Look after your diet and general hydration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can stretch marks be treated during pregnancy or breastfeeding? During pregnancy and breastfeeding, most aesthetic treatments for stretch marks are usually postponed as a precaution, and hydration and skin care are prioritised. The most prudent thing is to consult in order to assess each case.

How many sessions are needed? It depends on the type and age of the stretch marks and the treatment chosen. More than one session is usually needed, and the number is defined after the assessment.

Do they disappear on their own? Recent red stretch marks can fade over time and turn white, but they do not disappear completely on their own. Treating them early improves the result.

Book Your Assessment

If your stretch marks bother you, the first step is an assessment to see what type they are and which options make sense in your case.

• Book an appointment: Book a consultation

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