| Stretch Marks Stretch marks, known as striae, are the bane of both men and women of all ages. Stretch marks occur on the arms, breasts, abdomen, buttocks, and the groin. They are characterized by initial red streaks which become purplish before becoming white, thin, and depressed. Stretch marks are mechanical and are a result of the collagen fibers being stretched vigorously or too far by rapid weight gain. They develop along normal cleavage lines perpendicular to the points of greatest tension. Histologically, the elastin fibers are fine, disorganized and thus weak. Contrary to popular opinion, aloe vera or cocoa butter are not effective treatments for stretch marks. No known therapy is currently available to either stop or reverse the damaged elastin fibers to normal. Promising research using several lasers, especially those in the 1060nm and 1300nm are proving useful as treatments to diminish the striae redness and aid in collagen remodeling of immature stretch marks. |
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| Aesthetic Medicine Today |
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