Stretch marks, commonly known as striae, are a skin problem that occurs when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly, causing the collagen and elastin structure in the skin to break down. This results in scar-like lines that appear in different colors, such as red, purple, or white. Stretch marks are commonly found in areas of the body where the skin has rapidly stretched, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, waist, shoulders, back, and other areas prone to rapid expansion or contraction.

Stretch marks can be categorized based on their appearance, color, and the stage of their development. They can be divided into two main types:

1. Red Stretch Marks (Striae Rubra)
   • Appearance: Red or pink lines that appear on the skin. These are caused by the skin stretching rapidly.
   • Cause: The red color indicates that inflammation is still occurring and that blood vessels are expanded due to the inflammation. This type of stretch mark usually appears in the early stages of skin stretching or shrinking, such as during pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, or during puberty.
2. White Stretch Marks (Striae Alba)
   • Appearance: White or silver lines that appear after the red stretch marks fade. These lines are typically longer and more faded.
   • Cause: These stretch marks form after the red stretch marks begin to fade and the blood vessels return to their normal size. However, collagen and elastin production is insufficient to fully restore the strength of the skin in the affected areas, leading to thinner skin layers and incomplete healing, which results in the formation of white or silver marks.

Stretch marks can occur for specific reasons, which are commonly found in the following cases:

1. Stretch Marks from Pregnancy (Striae Gravidarum)
   • Appearance: These marks often appear as long red or white lines on the abdomen, breasts, hips, or thighs, particularly in the third trimester of pregnancy or after childbirth.
   • Cause: They are caused by the rapid stretching of the skin due to the growing baby and hormonal changes during pregnancy.
2. Stretch Marks from Weight Changes (Striae Adiposae)
   • Appearance: These marks typically appear as red or white lines caused by rapid weight gain or loss.
   • Cause: They occur due to the rapid expansion or contraction of the skin when there is a significant and quick change in weight.
3. Stretch Marks from Puberty Growth (Striae Distensae)
   • Appearance: These marks are usually seen as red or white lines on the thighs, hips, breasts, or other areas where the body is rapidly growing.
   • Cause: These stretch marks are caused by rapid body growth during puberty, where the skin is unable to stretch quickly enough to keep up.
4. Stretch Marks from Steroid Use (Striae Atrophicae)
   • Appearance: These stretch marks often appear as red or white lines on the skin due to the skin thinning and losing elasticity from prolonged steroid use.
   • Cause: They develop from using creams, medications, or hormones containing steroids for extended periods.
5. Stretch Marks from Skin Expansion (Striae Elongatae)
   • Appearance: These marks appear as red or white lines caused by rapid skin stretching, such as during body growth or changes.
   • Cause: They are caused by rapid skin stretching, such as during puberty or intense physical activity that results in muscle expansion.

After the treatment for stretch marks, proper skin care is essential to ensure the best results and minimize side effects. The medical team will provide detailed and step-by-step instructions for post-treatment care, which may include:

• Using specialized skincare creams: These creams are specifically designed for post-procedure care to nourish and protect the skin.
• Avoiding sun exposure: It’s important to protect the treated area from direct sunlight to prevent irritation or hyperpigmentation.
• Preventing friction: Avoid rubbing or irritating the treated area to ensure proper healing.

Additionally, the treating physician will closely monitor the results of the treatment and follow up on the progress to ensure effective recovery.