Stretch marks, also known as striae are indented streaks that appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, butticks or other places on the body
Not all stretch marks look alike. They vary depending on how long you’ve had them, what caused them, where they are situated and the skin type. Common variations include:
- Indented streaks or lines
- Prink, red, black, blue or purple streaks
- Bright streaks that fade to a lighter color
- Streaks covering large areas of the body
Formation of Stretch Marks
The cause of stretch marks is stretching of the skin. The severity is affected by several factors including genetics and the degree of stress on the skin. The level of hormone cortisol might play a role.
Cortisol – a hormone produced by the adrenal glands – weakens elastic fibers in the skin
- Family history / genetics
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight gain/ loss
- Usage of corticosteroids
Cellulite is a very common, harmless skin condition that causes lumpy, dimpled flesh on the thighs, hips, buttocks and abdomen and is most prevalent in women.
They look like dimpled or bumpy skin and are sometimes described as having a cottage cheese or orange peel texture.
Common Causes
It involves fibrous connective cords that tether the skin to the underlying muscle, with the fat lying between. As fat cells accumulate, they push up against the skin, while the long, tough cords pull down. This creates an uneven surface or dimpling.
- Hormonal factors play a large role in the development of cellulite, and genetics determine skin structure, skin texture and body type
- Family history / genetics
Solutions
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid a yo-yo diet
- Aim for slow and gradual weight gain during pregnancy
