Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are elongated marks on the skin which can appear anywhere on the body but tend to show where excessive weight loss or weight gain occurs or where the skin has been stretched. Contrary to popular belief, stretch marks do not only affect woman. They can affect both sexes for several reasons.

•   After rapid weight gain or loss
•   Pregnancy
•   During puberty
•   Because of an underlying health condition such as Cushing’s or Marfan Syndrome
•   After prolonged or inappropriate use of corticosteroid medication (steroids)

Most common areas to find stretch marks are:

•   The abdomen
•   Upper arms (bingo wings)
•   Breasts (chest for men)
•   Buttocks
•   Thighs

Stretch marks commonly appear as red or purple in colour and then over time tend to fade to a white or silvery colour. Once stretch marks have appeared, they won’t disappear completely by themselves and may need treatment to help them fade.