Striae

Striae, also known as stretch marks, are a common skin condition characterized by linear streaks on the skin that differ in hue and texture from the normal skin. They are often the result of rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth or rapid weight changes.

Causes

Striae are caused by the tearing of the dermis, which often leads to scarring. This can occur during periods of rapid growth, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or weight gain. Certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and certain genetic disorders can also cause striae. In addition, prolonged use of corticosteroid creams and lotions can also lead to striae.

Symptoms

Striae initially appear as reddish or purplish lines, but over time they tend to fade to a lighter range. The affected areas appear empty and are soft to the touch. Striae can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the stomach, breasts, thighs, buttocks, and arms.

Treatment

While there is no cure for striae, there are several treatments that can help minimize their appearance. These include topical creams, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion. However, the effectiveness of these treatments varies and they may not completely remove striae.

Prevention

Preventing striae can be difficult, as they are often the result of uncontrollable factors such as growth and hormonal changes. However, maintaining a healthy weight and using moisturizing products can help keep the skin supple and less prone to tearing.

See also

• Dermatology
• Skin care
• Scar