Stretch marks, medically known as "striae gravidarum", are caused by excessive stretching of the skin. Pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss and puberty, are the usual causes of stretch marks. Almost half of all expectant women and many teenagers will acquire stretch marks. Men can develop stretch marks from rapid weight gain or loss, and weight lifting.

Depending on your skin color, the marks start out as pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown streaks. The reddish-brown pigmentation in the marks gradually fades, and the stretch marks or "striae" begin to look like glistening silvery lines of scar tissue.

Pregnant women start to develop marks on the abdomen during the second half of pregnancy as the skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby. However, besides the abdomen, stretch marks commonly occur on the hips, breasts and buttocks due to either gaining or losing weight in these areas.

Stretch marks can occur from pregnancy, weight gain, bodybuilding / weightlifting, as well as from rapid growth spurts common during puberty. Some other known causes can be the result of using steroidal creams or ointments, such as hydrocortisone, if used on the skin for longer than a few weeks. High doses of corticosteroids taken orally for longer than a month may also contribute to the occurrence of stretch marks.

Stretch marks may vary in their appearance. When they first show up they may have a reddish or purplish coloration and appear slightly indented into the skin, with a noticeably different texture. In many cases, stretch marks may fade over time to a more silver-white color; however, their texture normally remains fairly consistent. Because scar tissue tends to have less melanin (pigment), tanning may make them become more visible as they may not darken with the surrounding skin.

What are the Common Treatments for Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are made up of scar tissue, and the only way to permanently physically remove them is through surgical procedures such as plastic surgery, microdermabrasion, or laser treatments. These treatments are typically only used as a last resort and can be very expensive. The average laser treatment for stretch marks and/or cosmetic surgery range from $2,500 to over $25,000. What’s more, you may not end up with the level of results you want. Additionally, it is important to note that surgical procedures are not normally recommended for teenagers due to the continued growth that is likely to occur.