Stretch marks occur when the connective tissue is overstretched and the elastic fibers (collagen and elastin) of the subcutaneous tissue (subcutis) tear. Overstretching can have various causes. Stretch marks often occur in women during pregnancy (especially in the second half of pregnancy) when the elasticity of the skin is severely strained by the growing child. The altered hormone balance also plays its part in the development of stretch marks: The cortisol level in the blood is elevated during pregnancy - and since the adrenal hormone reduces the elasticity of the skin, it is more likely to tear and stretch marks appear.
Our connective tissue is held together by elastic collagen fibres. If the fibres are stressed too much, they cannot withstand the strain and tear. This causes irreparable damage to the skin. Particularly affected are parts of the body such as the upper arms, chest, stomach and hips, buttocks and thighs. If the tissue in the lower skin layer tears, we usually do not feel it. Fresh cracks appear as fine, purple or red lines. After a while, the structure and color of the stretch marks change. They fade, take on a pink or white tone and a bulging surface that looks like a scar.
These factors can promote stretch marks: Abrupt weight gain or obesity often leads to overstretching of the skin and the formation of stretch marks. A balanced, healthy diet can prevent this. In addition, extreme muscle building in a short period of time should be avoided. In most cases, such as during a growth spurt or pregnancy, stretch marks unfortunately cannot be prevented.
Stretch marks occur in about 90% of all pregnant women in the last third of pregnancy.
With stretch marks you do not need to see a doctor. The stripe-shaped, painless skin changes are solely a cosmetic and not a health problem. However, some patients suffer greatly from stretch marks and feel restricted in their everyday life, for example because they no longer dare to show themselves in a bikini. In such cases you should consult a dermatologist (aesthetic medicine) and get advice on the treatment options.
A good, high-quality aloe vera gel is applied either preventively or in case of already existing stretch marks, massaged in and washed off with water.