Rozstępy
Epidemiologia
Rozstępy (striae distensae) stanowią powszechny problem dermatologiczny, dotykający od 50% do 90% populacji dorosłych, z wyraźną przewagą u kobiet (2,5-krotnie częściej niż u mężczyzn). Szczególnie narażone są kobiety w ciąży (43-90%), nastolatki (6-86%) oraz osoby z otyłością (około 43%). Czynniki ryzyka obejmują predyspozycje genetyczne, zaburzenia hormonalne (np. zwiększona aktywność kory nadnerczy, wahania estrogenu), długotrwałe stosowanie kortykosteroidów oraz choroby takie jak zespół Cushinga, Marfana czy przewlekłe choroby wątroby. Rozstępy klasyfikuje się na podstawie stadium (ostre, podostre, przewlekłe) oraz typów (m.in. striae gravidarum, striae rubrae, striae albae), a lokalizują się głównie na brzuchu, piersiach, udach, pośladkach, ramionach i dolnej części pleców. Diagnostyka opiera się na ocenie klinicznej, z możliwością wykorzystania polaryzacyjnej tomografii koherentnej (PS-OCT) do oceny nasilenia zmian.
- Epidemiologia rozstępów
- Różnice płciowe w występowaniu rozstępów
- Występowanie rozstępów w okresie ciąży
- Występowanie rozstępów w pubertacji
- Rozstępy związane z otyłością
- Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje
- Predyspozycje genetyczne
- Czynniki hormonalne
- Stosowanie kortykosteroidów
- Choroby i stany predysponujące
- Inne czynniki ryzyka
- Nadzór i monitorowanie rozstępów
- Badania i trendy w leczeniu rozstępów
Epidemiologia rozstępów
Rozstępy (striae distensae) są niezwykle powszechnym problemem dermatologicznym, dotykającym znaczącą część populacji. Szacuje się, że od 50% do nawet 90% osób dorosłych doświadcza rozstępów w pewnym momencie życia.12 Według niektórych badań, rozstępy mogą występować nawet u około 90% populacji, co czyni je jednym z najbardziej powszechnych problemów dermatologicznych.34
Różnice płciowe w występowaniu rozstępów
Rozstępy dotykają znacznie częściej kobiety niż mężczyzn.56 Badania wskazują, że kobiety są 2,5 razy bardziej narażone na pojawienie się rozstępów niż mężczyźni.7 Szacuje się, że około 70% nastolatek i 40% nastolatków płci męskiej doświadcza rozstępów.89 Różnice te mogą wynikać z wyższego wskaźnika masy ciała u kobiet oraz odmiennych zmian hormonalnych.10
Występowanie rozstępów w okresie ciąży
Ciąża jest jednym z najczęstszych okresów, w którym pojawiają się rozstępy, nazywane wówczas striae gravidarum. Badania wskazują, że od 43% do nawet 90% kobiet ciężarnych rozwija rozstępy przed porodem.51 Według brytyjskiej służby zdrowia (NHS), rozstępy dotyczą około 8 na 10 kobiet w ciąży.11 Zazwyczaj pojawiają się one w szóstym lub siódmym miesiącu ciąży, kiedy to następuje gwałtowny przyrost masy płodu.1213
Interesujące jest również to, że podczas ciąży rozstępy częściej występują u młodszych kobiet niż u starszych.5 Warto także zauważyć, że według badań, aż 78,2% kobiet w ciąży stosuje produkty przeciw rozstępom, co świadczy o świadomości problemu i powszechności jego występowania.14
Występowanie rozstępów w pubertacji
Okres dojrzewania jest drugim najczęstszym czasem, kiedy pojawiają się rozstępy, dotykając od 6% do 86% nastolatków.5 Gwałtowny wzrost i zmiany hormonalne powodują, że skóra młodych osób jest szczególnie narażona na powstawanie rozstępów.15 W okresie tym rozstępy najczęściej pojawiają się na udach, biodrach, piersiach i ramionach.16
Rozstępy związane z otyłością
Otyłość jest kolejnym istotnym czynnikiem wpływającym na powstawanie rozstępów, z szacowaną częstością występowania na poziomie około 43%.5 Badania wykazały także większą częstość występowania rozstępów u osób z większym obwodem brzucha i szybszym przyrostem masy ciała.51 Warto zauważyć, że Indie doświadczają rosnącego problemu otyłości, szczególnie wśród młodzieży, co może prowadzić do zwiększonego zapotrzebowania na leczenie rozstępów w przyszłości.9
Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje
Predyspozycje genetyczne
Pozytywny wywiad rodzinny stanowi istotny czynnik ryzyka rozwoju rozstępów.5 Badania genetyczne sugerują, że elastyczne mikrowłókna odgrywają rolę w rozwoju niezsyndromicznych rozstępów.17 Jeśli rodzice lub dziadkowie mieli rozstępy, istnieje większe prawdopodobieństwo ich wystąpienia u potomstwa.318 Ta genetyczna predyspozycja jest dodatkowym dowodem na to, że elastyczność skóry i jej zdolność do wytrzymywania rozciągania są częściowo uwarunkowane genetycznie.19
Czynniki hormonalne
Hormony odgrywają znaczącą rolę w powstawaniu rozstępów. Zwiększona aktywność kory nadnerczy prowadząca do wydzielania kortyzolu może przyczyniać się do rozwoju rozstępów.6 Wahania poziomu estrogenu występujące podczas dojrzewania, ciąży i menopauzy powodują, że skóra staje się bardziej podatna na uszkodzenia poprzez zmniejszenie naturalnej produkcji kolagenu i elastyny.18 Niektórzy eksperci uważają, że hormony w czasie ciąży mogą powodować większe uwodnienie skóry, rozluźniając ją i czyniąc bardziej podatną na rozdarcia podczas rozciągania.12
Stosowanie kortykosteroidów
Długotrwałe stosowanie kortykosteroidów, zarówno doustnie jak i miejscowo, może prowadzić do rozwoju rozstępów.86 Leki te wpływają na syntezę kolagenu i elastyny w skórze, co zmniejsza jej elastyczność i zwiększa podatność na powstawanie rozstępów.3
Choroby i stany predysponujące
Niektóre schorzenia zwiększają ryzyko wystąpienia rozstępów. Należą do nich:203
- Zespół Cushinga – charakteryzujący się nadmiernym wydzielaniem kortyzolu
- Zespół Marfana – powodujący osłabienie tkanki łącznej w skórze
- Przewlekłe choroby wątroby
- Niektóre przypadki cukrzycy
Inne czynniki ryzyka
Badania wykazały, że rozstępy częściej występują u osób palących niż u niepalących.5 Ponadto, szybki przyrost masy mięśniowej u kulturystów może również prowadzić do powstawania rozstępów.22 Interwencje chirurgiczne, takie jak powiększanie piersi, również mogą być czynnikiem ryzyka.23
Nadzór i monitorowanie rozstępów
Diagnostyka rozstępów
Rozstępy zazwyczaj są diagnozowane przez dermatologów lub innych pracowników służby zdrowia na podstawie wyglądu skóry.3 W badaniu porównawczym wykorzystującym 150 miejsc z rozstępami u 19 pacjentów, Lin i współpracownicy stwierdzili, że polaryzacyjna tomografia koherentna (PS-OCT) jest użytecznym narzędziem do oceny nasilenia rozstępów w porównaniu z dermoskopią w świetle widzialnym.6
Rozstępy przechodzą przez różne etapy dojrzewania, które można monitorować:21
- Stadium ostre (striae rubra) – charakteryzujące się uniesionymi, rumieniowymi rozstępami
- Stadium podostre – charakteryzujące się plamistopurpurowymi rozstępami
- Stadium przewlekłe (striae alba) – charakteryzujące się białymi lub hipopigmentowanymi, zanikającymi rozstępami
Klasyfikacja rozstępów
Rozstępy można sklasyfikować na sześć różnych typów w zależności od ich wyglądu i epidemiologii:16
- Striae atrophicans – rozstępy z ścieńczałą skórą
- Striae gravidarum – rozstępy występujące po ciąży
- Striae distensae – rozstępy wynikające z rozciągnięcia skóry
- Striae rubrae – rozstępy czerwone
- Striae albae – rozstępy białe
- Striae nigra – rozstępy czarne
- Striae caerulea – rozstępy ciemnoniebieskie
Lokalizacja rozstępów
Rozstępy najczęściej występują w określonych obszarach ciała, gdzie skóra jest narażona na gwałtowne rozciąganie. Typowe lokalizacje to:2516
- Brzuch (szczególnie okolica pępka)
- Piersi
- Uda
- Pośladki
- Ramiona i pachy
- Dolna część pleców
Implikacje psychospołeczne
Chociaż rozstępy nie stanowią problemu zdrowotnego, mogą mieć istotny wpływ na dobrostan psychiczny osób dotkniętych tym problemem.15 W jednym z badań prawie jedna trzecia kobiet z rozstępami zgłaszała odczuwanie dużego lub umiarkowanego zakłopotania z powodu rozstępów.26 Wiele kobiet twierdziło, że rozstępy powodowały podobny lub większy stres emocjonalny niż inne problemy skórne, takie jak trądzik, egzema i łuszczyca.27
Rozstępy mogą prowadzić do obniżenia samooceny i pewności siebie, co skłania wiele osób do poszukiwania metod leczenia i zapobiegania.19 Dermatolog może zaoferować dodatkowe wsparcie i wskazówki dotyczące dostępnych opcji, gdy rozstępy powodują stres emocjonalny lub niechęć do odsłaniania ciała.28
Badania i trendy w leczeniu rozstępów
Rynek produktów przeciw rozstępom
Rynek produktów przeciw rozstępom został wyceniony na 2,66 miliarda dolarów w 2024 roku, a prognozuje się jego wzrost o 8,30% rocznie w latach 2025-2034, osiągając wartość 5,90 miliarda dolarów do 2034 roku.9 Wzrost ten napędzany jest zwiększającą się częstością występowania rozstępów i otyłości na głównych rynkach światowych.
W badaniu opublikowanym w JMIR Dermatology stwierdzono, że 63,6% najlepszych produktów jest przeznaczonych do leczenia rozstępów, przy czym 71,2% z nich to olejki.2914 Witamina E była najczęściej stosowanym składnikiem zarówno w produktach przeznaczonych do zwalczania rozstępów (34,2%), jak i w produktach niespecyficznych (26,9%).29
Skuteczność metod zapobiegania i leczenia
Dowody sugerują, że stosowanie kremów i balsamów nie może zapobiec powstawaniu rozstępów.30 Istnieją ograniczone dowody dotyczące skuteczności terapii miejscowej w leczeniu rozstępów.21 Jednak badania kliniczne wykazały, że stosowanie preparatów zawierających wyciąg z Centella asiatica znacznie poprawiło wygląd rozstępów.31
Masło kakaowe, Centella asiatica i masło shea częściej występowały jako składniki w produktach przeznaczonych do zwalczania rozstępów.29 Badania sugerują również, że produkty zawierające retinol, tretynoina, kwas mlekowy, kwas hialuronowy lub Centella mogą pomóc w zapobieganiu rozstępom.32
Nowoczesne metody leczenia
Obecnie stosowane inwazyjne metody leczenia rozstępów obejmują:31
- Terapię laserową
- Terapię światłem
- Iniekcje kolagenu
- Lipolizę laserową
- Techniki wykorzystujące fale radiowe
- Mikrodermabrazję
Dodatkowo, metody wykorzystujące fraktrumujące lasery takie jak Fraxel® lub inne źródła energii stymulują naturalny proces gojenia skóry, wygładzając nierówną powierzchnię i zmniejszając zaczerwienienie.33 Terapia laserowa z wykorzystaniem lasera barwnikowego zmniejsza zaczerwienienie w obrębie rozstępów bez uszkadzania powierzchni skóry.33
Potrzeba dalszych badań
Ogólnie rzecz biorąc, istnieje ograniczona liczba badań oceniających skuteczność różnych rodzajów leczenia rozstępów.1 Potrzebne są dalsze badania kliniczne, aby przetestować więcej produktów i technik w celu opracowania bardziej skutecznych strategii zapobiegania i leczenia tego schorzenia.29
Przyszłe badania powinny skupić się na składnikach najczęściej używanych przez konsumentów, aby zrozumieć mechanizm ich działania i skuteczność w zapobieganiu rozstępom.29 Ponadto, rządy promują bezpieczne formuły w produktach do pielęgnacji skóry, w tym tych przeznaczonych do zwalczania rozstępów, co może stymulować innowacje w tej dziedzinie.34
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 A Narrative Review of Current Striae Treatmentshttps://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/10/12/2565
Striae (striae cutis distensae) are a common disfiguring skin condition, characterised by the appearance of linear bands on the skin, with an atrophic look. The striae development is still unknown, being more common in women than in men. The prevalence of this condition ranges from 50% to 90%. […] Stretch marks are more common in women than in men, being more prominent in dark-skinned individuals. In puberty, the striae prevalence ranges from 6% to 86%, and, in obesity, it is 43%. There is also a higher prevalence in individuals with a larger abdominal area and weight gain. During pregnancy, where stretch marks are known as striae gravidarum, they range between 50% and 90%, being more common in younger women. […] Regarding epidemiology, the prevalence of stretch marks is variable. It is more frequent in women between 5 and 50 years old. In the specific case of SG, the striae prevalence in women is between 50% and 90%. […] Overall, there are only a limited number of studies conducted that investigate the effectiveness of different types of treatment for stretch marks. More clinical trials will be needed to test more products and techniques for more effective strategies to prevent and treat this condition.
- #2https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/beauty/skin/a706805/stretch-marks/
Tiger stripes, butt smiles, glitter lines, mummy medals… Whatever you want to call stretch marks, an estimated 80% of adults have them. […] According to Dr Anjali Mahto of The Cadogan Clinic: 'This occurs often during adolescence and pregnancy and whilst an exact figure is unknown, some studies suggest that some 80% of people will suffer with stretch marks. They usually affect the buttocks, breasts and abdomen.’ […] 'No they are not harmful. They do not cause pain or health problems,’ explains Dr Paul Nassif, plastic surgeon and founder of Nassif Med Spa. […] 'There is no way to prevent stretch marks completely. Stretch marks are normal for many men and women. They can occur during puberty, pregnancy, or rapid muscle or weight gain, most common areas being the stomach, thighs and chest area,’ clarifies Dr Nassif.
- #3 Stretch Marks: How to Get Rid of Them, Causes, and Morehttps://www.healthline.com/health/stretch-marks
Stretch marks are very common estimates suggest up to 90 percent of people have them. […] Stretch marks happen for two main reasons: stretching skin and an increase of cortisone in your system. […] Your chances of developing stretch marks increase if you are a woman, have a family history of stretch marks, are pregnant, have Marfan syndrome, have a history of delivering large babies or twins, have a higher body weight, experience significant weight loss or gain, or take corticosteroid medications. […] A dermatologist or other healthcare professional can usually tell whether you have stretch marks by looking at your skin. […] Stretch marks happen naturally, and the marks themselves dont pose any cause for concern. […] That said, since they can happen as a sign of underlying health conditions, it never hurts to ask a dermatologist about your stretch marks especially if youve noticed other unusual symptoms.
- #4 How to get rid of stretch markshttps://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2023/12/05/how-to-get-rid-of-stretch-marks/71719899007/
Stretch marks can be both common and bothersome. These narrow, parallel streaks or lines that appear wherever the skin has been stretched too rapidly affect billions of people. […] Billions of people have stretch marks. Are they dangerous or just a nuisance? […] Despite so many options to choose from, Lin says that „no single modality has proven completely effective;” and that the amount of time one has had stretch marks and one’s skin type will also affect one’s results.
- #5 Stretch Marks – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK436005/
Striae distensae occur in pregnancy (43% to 88%), puberty (6% to 86%) and obesity (43%). […] Striae are more common in females than in males and may be more common in certain races. […] A positive family history is a risk factor for striae. […] During pregnancy, striae are more common in younger women than in older women. […] Several studies have noted greater prevalence with large abdominal circumference and large weight gain (due to fetal size or polyhydramnios). […] One study reported that striae were more prevalent in smokers than non-smokers.
- #6 Striae Distensae (Stretch Marks): Practice Essentials, Pathophysiologyhttps://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1074868-overview
Approximately 90% of pregnant women, 70% of adolescent females, and 40% of adolescent males (many of whom participate in sports) have stretch marks. […] Striae affect adolescents, pregnant women (striae gravidarum), and patients with excessive adrenal cortical activity. […] Stretch marks affect persons of all races and women more commonly than men. […] In a comparison study using 150 striae sites in 19 patients, Lin et al found polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) to be useful for assessing striae severity when compared to visible light dermoscopy. […] Factors leading to the development of striae have not been fully elucidated. […] Striae distensae are a reflection of „breaks” in the connective tissue. […] Prolonged use of oral or topical corticosteroids or Cushing syndrome (increased adrenal cortical activity) leads to the development of striae.
- #7 JMIR Dermatology – Consumer Preference of Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Stretch Marks: Systematic Product Searchhttps://derma.jmir.org/2020/1/e18295
Striae distensae, or stretch marks, are a common and distressing condition affecting females two-and-a-half times more frequently than males. […] The aim of this study was to determine which products were preferred by consumers for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks based on product vehicle and product ingredients. […] Out of over 10,000 products, 184 were selected as the top products according to the review and rating criteria of which 117 (63.6%) were stretch markspecific and 67 (36.4%) were non stretch markspecific. […] This study demonstrated that there are many products available for the prevention and treatment of stretch marks and identified specific ingredients in the products preferred by customers. […] There are few studies investigating the effectiveness of the major ingredients in the stretch mark products that are preferred by consumers.
- #8 Stretch marks (striae)https://dermnetnz.org/topics/stretch-marks-striae
Stretch marks are very common, affecting 70% of adolescent girls and 40% of boys. […] Stretch marks can also occur from prolonged use of oral or topical corticosteroids and from anabolic steroids. […] They are seen more often in people with Marfan syndrome.
- #9 Stretch Marks Treatment Market Size, Share & Report | 2034https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/stretch-marks-treatment-market
The stretch marks treatment market was valued at USD 2.66 Billion in 2024, driven by the increasing prevalence of stretch marks and obesity across the 8 major markets. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.30% during the forecast period 2025-2034 and attain a market value of USD 5.90 Billion by 2034. […] Around 70% of teenage girls, 40% of teenage boys, and nearly every pregnant woman in the United States are reported to have stretch marks. This has resulted in an increasing need for non-surgical options to treat stretch marks, hence driving the market growth. […] India is experiencing a rising obesity problem, especially among the youth, with 12.5 million children aged 5-19 being overweight, according to a study published in The Lancet. This increasing prevalence is expected to augment the market demand in the forecast period.
- #10 Can Hormones Affect Stretch Marks? – Simi Doctors Aesthetics and Medicalhttps://simidoctor.com/can-hormones-affect-stretch-marks/
Stretch marks are not considered a medical concern; rather, most people find them aesthetically undesirable. […] It is also worth noting that women are more likely to develop stretch marks than men for the previously mentioned reasons and due to the fact that females typically have a higher body mass index than males. […] When you visit your medical professional to discuss your stretch marks, they can help you identify their possible causes. Together, you will observe your lifestyle choices and discuss any recent life events that may have influenced the development of your stretch marks. […] If you have noticeable stretch marks covering a large part of your body, you should consider seeing a healthcare professional. Your health professional can determine the cause of your stretch marks and recommend a course of treatment.
- #11 Stretch marks in pregnancy – NHShttps://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/stretch-marks/
Stretch marks are common in pregnancy, affecting around 8 out of 10 pregnant women. […] Stretch marks are very common and do not just affect pregnant women. […] Whether or not you get stretch marks depends on your skin type, as some people’s skin is more elastic. […] You are more likely to get stretch marks if your weight gain is more than average in pregnancy. […] Some creams claim to remove stretch marks once they’ve appeared, but there is no reliable evidence that they work. […] There is also limited evidence about whether oils or creams help prevent stretch marks from appearing in the first place.
- #12 How to Prevent Stretch Marks: 7 Tipshttps://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-prevent-stretch-marks
Regardless, a good number of pregnant women will notice stretch marks starting in the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy. […] If you do develop stretch marks during pregnancy, you may be glad to know that they will eventually fade. Over time, the red or pink color will mature into a pale silver or white color. […] Some people are more likely to develop stretch marks. Risk factors include being female, having a family history of stretch marks, being overweight, being pregnant, gaining or losing weight quickly, using corticosteroids, having breast augmentation, and having certain genetic disorders, such as Cushings syndrome or Marfan syndrome.
- #12 How to Prevent Stretch Marks: 7 Tipshttps://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-prevent-stretch-marks
Stretch marks, also called striae distensae or striae gravidarum, look like indented streaks in your skin. They may be red, purple, or silver in appearance. Stretch marks most often appear on the stomach, chest, hips, bottom, and thighs. […] Theyre common in pregnancy, but anyone can develop stretch marks in any phase of life. Some people are more susceptible to them. If your mom, dad, grandparents, or other blood relative has stretch marks, youre more likely to get them. […] Pregnancy is one of the most common times when women notice stretch marks. In fact, its estimated that 50 to 90 percent of pregnant women will develop stretch marks before delivery. […] Some experts believe that hormones during pregnancy may make you more prone to stretch marks. The hormones may bring more water into the skin, relaxing it and making it easier to tear when stretched.
- #13 How To Take Control Of Your Stretch Marks During Pregnancy – Rosh MFM9F448E6E-79B5-4C03-9ECD-FEF0683499EB274A8763-1EFE-4DED-9513-815AB19642CC@3x00412BFF-D498-42B1-BA81-65046BFBE71D@3x9F448E6E-79B5-4C03-9ECD-FEF0683499EB274A8763-1EFE-4DED-9513-815AB19642CChttps://roshmfm.com/how-to-take-control-of-your-stretch-marks-during-pregnancy/
Stretch marks during pregnancy are commonly known as striae distensae or striae gravidarum They come in various sizes, colors, and shapes. […] About 50 to 90% of women will develop stretch marks before delivery. Stretch marks during pregnancy have been speculated to be due to hormones during pregnancy. These may make you more prone to stretch marks. […] Regardless, pregnant women will notice stretch marks starting in the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy. […] If you do happen to notice an increase in stretch marks or if you notice they have covered a large area of the body, talk to your doctor about possible causes and treatment options. […] For those stretch marks that develop for no clear reason such as pregnancy, talk to your doctor about getting help to rule out any potential health issues you may not be aware of.
- #14 Anti Stretch Mark Products Market Size, Share | CAGR of 5.2%https://market.us/report/anti-stretch-mark-products-market/
The anti-stretch mark products market involves the production and sale of products aimed at minimizing stretch marks. It includes manufacturers, cosmetic brands, and distributors meeting the needs of consumers seeking skin-enhancing solutions. […] According to BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 78.2% of pregnant women use these products, with 60.9% choosing Bio-Oil. This highlights a clear preference for established brands and trusted formulations. […] A study in JMIR Dermatology found that 63.6% of top products cater to stretch mark concerns, with creams making up 11.4%. This demand shows consistent consumer interest in targeted solutions. […] On a local level, cultural and ethnic factors influence product adoption. For example, women from Indian and Malay backgrounds are more prone to severe stretch marks, according to Surgical Cosmetic Dermatology.
- #15 Stretch Marks: Causes, Treatment, Preventionhttps://www.health.com/stretch-marks-7974519
Stretch marks are colorful streaks that appear on the skin due to skin stretching. […] Of the entire population, it’s estimated that anywhere between 11-88% of people are affected by stretch marks. […] The majority of stretch marks occur on teenagers as they go through a period of rapid growth and on people who are pregnant as they experience rapid body changes and growth. […] Stretch marks are common during pregnancy, adolescence, and times of fast weight gain. […] Stretch marks don’t cause physical harm, but their appearance can cause emotional distress.
- #16 The Natural Centella asiatica Extract Acts as a Stretch Mark Eraser: A Biological Evaluationhttps://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/1/15
Stretch marks, also called striae, are a form of tissue damage on the skin due to an excessive stretching of the dermis. Stretch marks are commonly associated with pregnancy and affect between 60% and 90% of women during their pregnancy. In reality, they occur as the result of tearing of the dermis during periods of rapid growth of the body or some body parts. Therefore, around 27% of adolescents are concerned by stretch marks. As they are caused by the sudden expansion of the skin, especially in areas where fat is most likely to be stored in our body, obesity may lead to the apparition of stretch marks. Stretch marks are thus usually found on the breasts, thighs, and belly, especially near the navel, upper arms, underarms, and lower back, both in women and men. […] Stretch marks could be classified into six different types depending on their appearance and epidemiology; striae atrophicans (thinned skin), striae gravidarum (following pregnancy), striae distensae (stretched skin), striae rubrae (red), striae albae (white), striae nigra (black), and striae caerulea (dark blue).
- #17 Striae Distensae (Stretch Marks): Practice Essentials, Pathophysiologyhttps://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1074868-overview
Genetic factors could certainly play a role, although this is not fully understood. […] In a letter to the editor of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Tung et al conducted genome-wide association analysis and found evidence that implicates elastic microfibrils in the development of nonsyndromic striae distensae. […] Oakley and Patel expound on the pathophysiology of stretch marks, asserting that origination of striae is thought to involve release of elastase due to mast cell and macrophage activity.
- #18 Why Some People Get Stretch Marks And Others Don’t | Venus Treatmentshttps://www.venustreatments.com/en-gl/blog/why-some-people-get-stretch-marks-and-others-dont/
While 90% of women experience stretch marks at some point during their lives and some men experience them, too it can still be tough to understand how the remaining 10% and most men seem to dodge such a common occurrence. […] Pregnancy is the leading cause of stretch marks among women. […] Hormones have a significant impact on skin health. […] Drastic changes in estrogen levels that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause make the skin susceptible to damage, reducing natural collagen and elastin production levels, leading to thinner, less elastic skin that is prone to stretch marks. […] Similar to cellulite, genetics seem to play a big role in determining your risk for stretch marks. If your birth parent(s) had stretch marks, you are likely to develop them, too. […] While there is no proven way to prevent stretch marks altogether, there are some steps you can take to lower your risk or reduce the appearance of stretch marks if they do form.
- #19 Stretch marks 101https://myexpertmidwife.com/blogs/my-expert-midwife/stretch-marks-101
Stretch marks are very common and are thought to affect up to 80% of pregnant women and are not harmful. […] It is almost impossible to predict who will or will not be affected by them but what is known is that some people are more likely to get them than others. […] A common skin concern that affects people of all ages and genders, stretch marks are harmless and not known to pose any risk to your health, however, they can impact on your self-esteem and confidence. […] If you have a family history of stretch marks then you may be more predisposed to developing some too due to genetics, so time to blame mum and dad! […] Hormones associated with puberty and pregnancy are also contributing factors. […] Once the damage to the dermis of the skin has been done it is irreversible, meaning stretch marks will be permanent however, there are things you can do to improve their appearance!
- #20 What causes stretch marks?https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2023/11/10/what-causes-stretch-marks/71434002007/
Billions of people have stretch marks. Are they dangerous or just a nuisance? […] Stretch marks – medically known as striae – impact many of us. „Although more common in females, these streak-like skin changes affect up to 90% of people,” explains Samuel Lin, MD, an associate professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School and a double board-certified plastic surgeon who practices in Boston. […] Certain medical conditions such as Cushings syndrome, chronic liver disease, and some cases of diabetes have also been connected to stretch marks. […] Because of these possible connections, Lin advises consulting with your primary care physician „if you notice widespread stretch marks in addition to other symptoms including sudden weight gain, excessive hairiness, excessive thirst, brittle bones or easy bruising.” […] Aside from potentially being a symptom of a few specific medical conditions, stretch marks aren’t threatening or harmful and do not cause any known medical problems. „Stretch marks are not dangerous in any way,” says Jaliman.
- #21 Striae distensae: Whatâs new at the horizon? | British Journal of Medical Practitionershttps://www.bjmp.org/content/striae-distensae-what-s-new-horizon
In addition, approximately 90% of all pregnant women develop stretch marks either on their breasts and/or abdomen by the third trimester. […] The role of genetic factors is further emphasised by the fact that they are common in inherited defects of connective tissue, as in Marfans syndrome. […] Striae distensae (striae alba) is a very challenging cosmetic problem for dermatologists to treat. […] Overall, there is limited evidence for the efficacy of topical therapy for the treatment of SD. […] The treatment of this cosmetically distressing condition has been disappointing and there is no widely accepted surgical procedure for improving the appearance of stretch marks. […] Laser therapy has been advocated as a treatment for striae distensae.
- #21 Striae distensae: Whatâs new at the horizon? | British Journal of Medical Practitionershttps://www.bjmp.org/content/striae-distensae-what-s-new-horizon
Striae distensae, commonly known as stretch marks, are benign skin lesions associated with considerable cosmetic morbidity. […] With a high incidence and unsatisfactory treatments, stretch marks remain an important target of research for an optimum consensus of treatment. […] The estimated prevalence of striae distensae range from 50 to 80%. […] The three maturation stages of striae include the acute stage (striae rubra) characterized by raised, erythematous striae, the sub-acute stage characterized by purpuric striae, and the chronic stage (striae alba), characterized by white or hypo-pigmented, atrophied striae. […] Although stretch marks are only harmful in extreme cases, even mild stretch marks can cause distress to the bearer. […] Striae may result from a number of causes, including, but not limited to, rapid changes in weight, adolescent growth spurts, corticosteroid use or Cushing Syndrome, and generally appear on the buttocks, thighs, knees, calves, or lumbosacral area.
- #22 Stretch Marks Austin | Causes & Dermatology Carehttps://revelusdermatology.com/conditions/stretch-marks/
Stretch marks commonly appear on the abdomen, thighs, hips, breasts, and shoulders. […] They are more prevalent during pregnancy, puberty, rapid weight gain or loss, and bodybuilding. […] Contributing factors include genetics, prolonged corticosteroid use, and conditions affecting collagen production. […] While no treatment can completely erase stretch marks, early intervention offers the best results. […] At Revelus Dermatology in Austin, we provide expert care and advanced treatment options to reduce their appearance and help restore confidence in your skin. […] Understanding stretch marks can help manage expectations and explore treatment options. […] Stretch marks begin as red, purple, or dark streaks and gradually fade to lighter or white scars. […] Common areas include the abdomen, breasts, thighs, buttocks, and shoulders, where skin stretches rapidly.
- #23 Striae distensae (stretch marks) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/striae-distensae-stretch-marks
Striae distensae are a common form of dermal scarring that appear on the skin as erythematous, violaceous, or hypopigmented linear striations. […] Epidemiologic data on striae distensae in the general population are limited. Reported incidences have ranged from as low as 11 percent in normal men to up to 88 percent in pregnant females. Predisposing factors include pregnancy, adolescent age, drug exposure (eg, topical or systemic corticosteroids), underlying disease (eg, Cushing syndrome), and surgery (eg, breast augmentation). […] A more extensive list of associated conditions is provided.
- #24https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/beauty/skin/a706805/stretch-marks/
’Stretch marks typically first appear as red, pink, or purple lines. Over time, the blood vessels heal, and the lines often fade to a white, silvery appearance and can become less noticeable,’ explains Dr Nassif. […] 'Weight loss on its own is unlikely to cause your stretch marks to go away. Having said that, we sometimes find that stretch marks often look less noticeable after having lost weight. This often comes down to the time that it takes to lose weight as time can allow for your own skin tissues to recover from the damage and slightly tighten, thereby making the stretch marks look softer.’ […] 'Stretch marks are notoriously difficult to improve or get rid of. When stretch marks are in their initial reddish phase, topical creams such as retinols can be helpful, in combination with micro-needling,’ says Dr Mahto. […] Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser treatment can be effective at minimising the appearance of stretch marks during the early stages of formation, but it wont completely negate the effects.
- #25 Stretch Marks – UF Healthhttps://ufhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/stretch-marks
Stretch marks are seen when a person grows or gains weight rapidly or has certain diseases or conditions. […] Stretch marks may be slightly depressed and have a different texture than normal skin. […] Stretch marks are most commonly located on the breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and flank. […] Most pregnant women experience striae at some point during their pregnancy.
- #26 Signs you’re more likely to develop stretch markshttps://nypost.com/2025/03/06/health/signs-youre-more-likely-to-develop-stretch-marks/
Stretch marks are more common in women than in men. […] Estimates suggest up to 90% of people have stretch marks at some point in their lives, though they’re generally more common in women than men. […] Stretch marks affect an estimated 8 in 10 pregnant women. […] Conditions like Cushing syndrome can also up the odds of developing stretch marks, as the hormonal disorder can lead to rapid weight gain and skin thinning due to excess cortisol, according to the Cleveland Clinic. […] People with Marfan syndrome often develop stretch marks as well, even without any weight fluctuations, because the weakened connective tissue in their skin makes it less elastic. […] In one study, nearly a third of women with stretch marks reported feeling a lot or moderate embarrassment about the lesions.
- #27 Signs you’re more likely to develop stretch markshttps://nypost.com/2025/03/06/health/signs-youre-more-likely-to-develop-stretch-marks/
Many of the women said the stretch marks caused similar or more emotional distress than other skin problems, such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. […] Criscito said her patients often ask how to keep stretch marks from appearing in the first place. […] However, Criscito noted that keeping your body moisturized, staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight especially during pregnancy could reduce the risk. […] If we treat the skin and get it better and then you have another baby and run into the issue again, you may have to repeat the treatments, which may not be cost-effective.
- #28 Stretch Marks: How to Get Rid of Them, Causes, and Morehttps://www.healthline.com/health/stretch-marks
Working with a dermatologist might also have benefit when your stretch marks bother you to the point where they lead to emotional distress or make you feel reluctant to bare your arms, legs, stomach, or other body parts. […] If you havent had much success with your attempts to minimize the appearance of your stretch marks at home, a dermatologist can offer more support and guidance on your options.
- #29 JMIR Dermatology – Consumer Preference of Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Stretch Marks: Systematic Product Searchhttps://derma.jmir.org/2020/1/e18295
Because of the distress caused by the disfiguring nature of stretch marks, studies have attempted to find methods to prevent and treat stretch marks. […] The majority of the top products that were found when searching stretch mark were oils131 (71.2%) of the top 184 products. […] Stretch markspecific products were more likely to be oils than non stretch markspecific products as demonstrated by the two-sample proportion test. […] Out of the major ingredients assessed in this study, vitamin E was the most commonly used ingredient in both stretch markspecific (40/117, 34.2%) and non stretch markspecific products (18/67, 26.9%). […] We focused our study on ingredients that had been mentioned in previous studies. […] Cocoa butter, C. asiatica, and shea butter were more likely to be found as ingredients in products intended for stretch marks. […] Further studies should focus the ingredients being used the most by consumers in order to understand the ingredients mechanism and effectiveness in stretch mark prevention.
- #30 Stretch marks | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/stretch-marks
Many adolescents and about half of all pregnant women will develop stretch marks. […] Stretch marks are scar-like streaky areas that appear in overstretched skin. […] Underlying tissue expansion is the most common cause, so they develop most often during the growth spurt in adolescence and on the expanding abdomen in the third trimester of pregnancy. […] Evidence suggests that the application of creams and lotions can’t prevent stretch marks.
- #31 The Natural Centella asiatica Extract Acts as a Stretch Mark Eraser: A Biological Evaluationhttps://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/1/15
Current treatment involves invasive methods such as laser therapy, light therapy, collagen injection, laser lipolysis, radiofrequency techniques, and microdermabrasion. A topical solution may be used, and among these, a formulation with CAST has been described to improve stretch marks, but its mechanism of action is poorly described. […] Clinical studies have shown that the application of a formulation with CAST significantly improved stretch mark appearance. […] Stretch mark concerns are mainly characterized by fibrotic skin. […] In 2023, Leite Diniz et al. described tissue regeneration, cell migration, and wound repair processes that were mediated by CAST extract, where, among the active compounds, asiatic acid is especially involved in this activity. […] Our study has unveiled the mechanism of action behind the efficacy of CAST. This traditional key plant significantly reduced fibrotic markers and extracellular matrix degradation.
- #32 Stretch Marks Treatment NY | Laser Stretch Mark Removalhttps://gendlerdermatology.com/stretch-marks-striae/
Some of the most common marks or scars we see on the skin are stretch marks in fact, its estimated that 50-90% of women have them in some form, as well as being common in men. […] There are many treatments available to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Many men and women see Dr. Gendler at her New York office for treatments to help speed the bodys natural process of fading stretch marks, which otherwise would take months or years. […] Evidence is inconclusive as to whether popular over-the-counter oil or skincare treatments can prevent stretch marks, though some can aid in reducing their appearance. Research has found that some products that contain retinol, tretinoin, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid or Centella may help to prevent stretch marks.
- #33 Stretch Marks – SkinCare Physicianshttps://www.skincarephysicians.net/services/skin-care-conditions-and-treatments/stretch-marks/
Stretch marks, technically called striae, are caused by rapid stretching of the skin. They commonly form as a result of pregnancy, growth spurts in puberty, steroid use, significant weight gain, and increased muscle development in body builders. Often red, purple, or pink in color, stretch marks are a cosmetic concern but not a health risk. For women or men with stretch marks, effective treatment options are available near Boston at SkinCare Physicians. […] The following treatments, administered by our experienced physicians, make stretch marks less noticeable by improving skin texture and eliminating unwanted coloring: […] Laser skin resurfacing with fractional lasers such as Fraxel® or other energy sources stimulate the skinâs natural healing process to smooth away the uneven surface and reduce redness. […] Laser skin therapy with our pulsed dye laser collapses the blood vessels within stretch marks to fade redness without damaging the surface of the skin. […] Stretch marks can be a common result of weight change, rapid growth, or certain inherited conditions.
- #34 Anti Stretch Mark Products Market Size, Share | CAGR of 5.2%https://market.us/report/anti-stretch-mark-products-market/
Governments are promoting safe formulations in skincare products, including those for stretch marks. Regulatory standards for ingredients and labeling ensure consumer trust. This, combined with growing demand, encourages manufacturers to innovate with effective, natural, and affordable solutions. This regulatory push is expected to drive the market forward.