When you grow or gain weight rapidly (e.g., during puberty or pregnancy), you may develop lines on the body called stretch marks (also known as striae). Stretch marks form when the skin is pulled due to rapid growth or stretching. Generally, skin is fairly elastic, however, when it’s overstretched, the skin “tears” and normal production of collagen (the major protein that makes up the connective tissue in your skin) is disrupted, resulting in the scaring of stretch marks. Most girls and women have stretch marks, which tend to form on the breasts, thighs, hips, and buttocks. Many women get them around the belly and breasts during pregnancy. While they’re more common in girls, guys can get stretch marks too. People who are overweight often develop them. Bodybuilders commonly get stretch marks because of the rapid body changes that they undergo through intensive training. Stretch marks also may occur from high-dose or long-term use of oral or topical steroids. At first, stretch marks can show up as reddish or purplish lines that may appear indented and have a different texture from the surrounding skin. The visible marks can diminish, but they will not disappear completely. Sunless tanning treatments in the form of creams and lotions can help to mask their appearance.
