The Problem

Stretch marks, medically known as striae, are common skin marks that occur when the skin stretches rapidly, causing the underlying collagen and elastin fibers to break. They appear as indented streaks on the skin and can range in color from pink to purple initially, eventually fading to a silvery-white hue over time.

Prevalence among pregnant women: Stretch marks are a common part of pregnancy, caused by the rapid changes the body undergoes to support the growing baby. As the skin stretches to accommodate the expanding abdomen, breasts, and other areas, the underlying connective tissues can struggle to keep up. This rapid stretching can cause small tears in the dermis, leading to the formation of stretch marks. Hormonal shifts, particularly an increase in cortisone levels, can also play a role by reducing the skin’s elasticity. Genetic factors and skin type influence how prone someone is to developing stretch marks, making them a natural and common occurrence for many pregnant women.