In this article
- Where stretch marks occur on body?
- Signs and symptoms
- Risks of developing
- When to see a doctor?
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- How to prevent stretch marks during puberty?
- How to make stretch marks less visible?
Another primary reason of stretch marks is the obesity. Now-a-days the appearance of stretch marks have become quite common. The marks do not cause any harm or pain. But if you are worried about the way your skin looks, it is recommended to sign an appointment with a dermatologist.
Where Do stretch marks appear on teen’s body?
Stretch marks usually show up on the abdominal region, thighs, hips, chest, and legs. But, they can also show up in any part of the body where the skin is overstretched due to the accumulation of fat. The areas of skin with stretch marks generally have purple or red scars. This is because of altered connecting tissues and collagen fibres in the skin.
Signs and Symptoms
The occurrence and the appearance of stretch marks can differ from person to person. Stretch marks also appear due to genetics. To treat them, it is important to establish the root cause, body part, and skin type. Generally, the following differences are seen on the skin.
- Bright or faded streaks
- Pink-, red- or purple-coloured scars
- Black or blue patches
- Over time, dark patches might fade to lighter shade.
- Edgy zig-zag lined streaks
Causes of Teenage Stretch Marks
- Corticosteroid — Apart from the fact that the stretch marks appear due to rapid weight gain, there is another primary cause. The extensive usage of corticosteroid lotions, creams, pills is cause of these marks. The corticosteroid cream decreases the skin’s capacity to stretch and hence leaving marks.
- Rapid weight loss or gain — The skin tends to stretch a lot when the person puts on weight and likewise leaves marks when the person losses weight.
- Pregnancy — We all are aware of the fact that the uterus in order to make space for the baby stretches and hence most of the pregnant women have their marks.
When to See A Doctor?
There are a lot of remedies that treat the stretch marks. But if you find yourself vexed trying out those, then it is recommended to consult a dermatologist. Doctors can always assist to diagnose the reason and start the treatment for the possible cause.
Diagnosis
Stretch Marks can be diagnosed by the physical examination of the skin. In some cases your doctor might also need your medical history to determine certain factors.
To determine the levels of cortisol, you might be required to give a blood sample. This can also be performed by the dexamethasone suppression test.
Treatment for Stretch marks in teenagers
Some of the best treatments available for stretch marks are here for you. Do check them out.
- Micro needling: The process of micro needling involves the micro needles that prick the surface layer of the skin which in turn promotes collagen and elasticity.
- Laser: The dermatologist uses a light beam (laser) to remove the layers of the skin i.e. marks caused due to stretch. This laser resurfacing reduces the appearance of the marks on the skin.
- Retinoid creams, lotion or gels: These are derived from vitamin A. Tretinoin is one among the retinoid lotions which is accessible as Retin-A, Renova, or Avita. Stretch Mark lotions can be used on the skin. They might help to reconstruct the skin fibers. It makes them appear a bit like usual skin. This can irritate the skin in a few people.
The above stated treatments work to an extent in lessening the marks. So, these improve the appearance but don’t wipe them off.
Post the treatment, your dermatologist usually prescribes gels or lotions that needs to be used for better results.
Even home strategies like massaging almond oil, vitamin E, olive oil, and cocoa butter are effective.
Try home remedies
Vitamin C to the rescue — Try the effective lemon juice to decrease the visibility of the stretch marks to certain extent. Simply rub some lemon juice on your stretch marks with a help of a cotton swab.
Potato juice — The potato juice has a property of reduces any kind of blemishes on the skin and so it is another remedy you can try.
Vitamin E — Rub vitamin E oil over the marks as it increases the elasticity of the skin and makes the visibility of the marks less.
Fresh aloe vera gel — Scoup out some fresh aloe vera gel from your plant. Apply on the effected areas on a daily basis for best results. It is best to leave it on the skin for at least 3 hours after application. Wash off with cool water.
How to prevent stretch marks?
The most preferred cure to diminish the possibilities of getting stretch marks is to maintain a healthy body weight. Another tip that comes handy is to stay hydrated throughout the day. A minimum of 8 glasses of water needs to be consumed to maintain healthy skin. Do not forget to moisturise your skin irrespective of the part of the day or season.
Tips to make stretch marks less visible
The following ways can be effective to make stretch marks less visible.
- Sunless self-tanners:
- Tanning lotions, sprays, and creams can aid in hiding the stretch marks. But keep in mind that they do not decrease stretch marks or make them vanish.
- Makeup:
Teenagers might opt for cover-up makeup that is water-resistant to cover the marks if they are worried about it.
These remedies and tips will give better results. Many supplements, gels that claim to remove stretch marks usually leave you disappointed and they are expensive too. It is always recommended to ask a doctor before deciding to use any typical self-tanning supplement.
As a parent, it is important to help your child to understand that it is normal to have stretch marks. However, if they are concerned about the stretch marks, then try consulting a dermatologist at the earliest or they are DIYs to the rescue.
Stretch marks usually go away with time. And in case they don’t, do not worry embrace your stretch marks too.
Originally published at https://kiwla.com.
