How do stretch marks form?

Medically, stretch marks are called “striae cutis atrophiere” (strips of atrophic skin) or “striae cutis distensae” (strips of stretched skin).
Stretch marks are caused by loss of elasticity and thinning of the lower level of the skin. This overstretching of the connective tissue causes irreparable tears in the subcutaneous tissue.



Where do stretch marks appear?

Stretch marks most commonly appear on stressed tissues - commonly on the breasts, stomach, buttocks, hips and upper arms.
Stretch marks can occur during pregnancy, if you build muscle too quickly, or if you gain weight quickly.
Other causes can be an unbalanced diet or a lack of protein, vitamin C or minerals.



 


What do different colored stripes mean?

Stretch marks are still a light pink or reddish color in the early stages.
These stretch marks are still very fresh and is a sign that the skin is in a phase of change.
Whereas white or light gray stretch marks indicate that the skin has relaxed and are the subsequent result of the light pink or reddish stretch marks. Often white stretch marks are a few millimeters wide, or even a few centimeters long.



 


 




 to the top