Stria atrophicae, Also Known as Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are called stria atrophicae in the field of dermatology. They are often characterized as scarring on the skin due to weight gain. They appear on body parts where higher amounts of fats are accumulated. Such body parts are the thighs, hips, buttocks, and the abdomen.

Stretch marks are created when the middle layer of the skin, i.e. dermis, stretches to its maximum elasticity to fit a new and larger body. They first appear as reddish purple lines due to microscopic bleeding and along with tissue inflammation, they are now considered as newly formed stretch marks. With this the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin, also stretches making it visible enough for the reddish purple lines to be seen. And when these heal, the scar itself forms with a lighter shade than that of the natural skin tone.

Some studies suggest that glucocorticoids, a group of steroids, are associated with stretch marks. Cortisol is the most common example of a glucocorticoid. Research showed that when the body is at stress, it releases cortisol at a level above its normal amount. This could halt fibrolasts from forming elastin fibers and collagen, which are essential for keeping a new skin firm. This would ultimately lead to the tearing of the epidermal and dermal layer due to lack of these supporting materials.

Numerous studies have been made regarding procedures on how to prevent or remove stretch marks. The use of retinoid creams or alpha-hydroxy acid, mixed with tropical steroids, were proven to prevent stretch marks.

Steroids are able to reduce inflammation such as the inflammation caused by the stretching of the dermis. Retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids counter-act the negative effects of steroids. Thus, this combination could help prevent the formation of stretch marks.

Other methods are available to make existing stretch marks barely there, including laser treatments, dermabrasion, and prescription retinoids. Dermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure in which the stratum corneum (outer surface of the epidermis) is being removed by abrasion, or sanding, targeting sun-damaged skin and dark spots on the skin. A laser treatment, called fractional laser resurfacing, uses pulses of light that creates microscopic wounds on the scar. In which, body produces new collagen and epithelium that improves the texture and appearance of mature stretch marks.

Laser treatments involve the formation of microscopic or small wounds to the stretch marks that would make the body release new collagen and create new skin cells. In effect, the old skin would be replaced by a better looking skin. Surgical methods could also be considered. One example of which is the tummy tuck, wherein the skin below the navel is removed in order to prevent stretch marks from forming in there, if it was not removed.

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