Stretch marks are not an unusual occurrence. Many people, both men and women, may notice them across parts of their bodies. Typically associated with pregnancy, however, there are many questions surrounding stretch marks. Here we want to answer your most asked questions and to offer more information about our treatments for stretch marks.
What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks simply occur when the skin has been overstretched. This is a result of the collagen production being compromised in this area of the body. They typically take on a scar-like appearance. Although women tend to experience stretch marks during pregnancy, they can also affect men too. Boys and girls may find when going through puberty, and as their bodies develop, stretch marks begin to appear in places like their arms and upper legs.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
As previously mentioned, a stretch mark is caused by the stretching of the skin. There are a number of reasons why this may happen throughout your lifetime:
Growth Spurt – this is typical during puberty. It’s a great idea to explain to teens what stretch marks are and why they appear on their bodies during this time.
Pregnancy – when women’s stomachs stretch during pregnancy stretch marks will begin to appear across the stomach as well as in any other areas of the body which grow as a result of this.
Sudden Weight Gain – when gaining weight your skin will naturally stretch, you may notice stretch marks appearing across your legs, arms, and stomach.
Anabolic Steroid Use – the use of these steroids has a number of side effects, one of them being the appearance of stretch marks across your body.
Working out with weights – when working out with heavy weights your body may change in shape slightly, therefore requiring your skin to stretch. This is particularly common on the arms, chest and back when people lift heavy weight to increase strength in this area.
Should I Worry About My Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are not a cause for concern, they are not harmful, nor do they cause pain or health problems. For the most part the issue with stretch marks is the appearance of them for some people. This can affect one’s confidence and make them feel self-conscious, particularly when wearing certain outfits. At the Laser Treatment Clinic, we believe everybody should be happy in their skin. If you wish to treat the appearance of your stretch marks, this is possible.
Why do stretch marks appear in different colours?
When you first notice a new stretch mark it will usually appear in red colour. However, over time this colour will fade. The colours differ due to how long the stretch mark has been on your body. The redness and raised appearance of a new stretch mark is caused by inflammation. The appearance and colour can also differ on different skin types.
How can I treat my stretch marks?
For people who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable with the appearance of their stretch marks can seek treatment. At the Laser Treatment Clinic we have years of experience in treating stretch marks and have complete understanding of how they can affect a person’s confidence. Our range of in-clinic treatments can be used on both white and red stretch marks no matter where they are on the body. Some common treatment areas include the abdomen, breasts, buttocks, thighs, hips, upper arms, and behind the knee.
If you are interested in our treatments for stretch marks, please do not hesitate to get in contact with our expert team of professionals who will book you an initial consultation.