Stretch marks are not only due to the fact that the skin stretches excessively. Stretch marks are also the result of an increase in blood cortisol levels. It is a hormone that will be secreted by the adrenals. Its amount increases during pregnancy, adolescence and obesity.
How do stretch marks appear?
They form at the level of the dermis and their formation is associated with the fact that fibroblasts, i.e. cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin fibres, are damaged. Collagen and elastin are proteins that have a fibrous form and form an ordered network, which gives the skin elasticity, firmness and elasticity, as well as guarantee good tension. Properly constructed collagen fibre will be characterised by the fact that it is very resistant to stretching. In order to break the diameter of 1mm it is necessary to have at least 10 kg of load.
Stretch marks are spindle-shaped bands that appear on the buttocks, abdomen, thighs and breasts.
They can form in two phases. The first one is the ignition phase, when they are still red and this is the moment when they can still be defeated. Phase II atrophy is an apparent regeneration when they are slightly smaller and brighter. Collagen and elastin fibers try to alleviate this problem to some extent and therefore build new skin, but they are not able to remove the problem completely. Starting the treatment of stretch marks in the aging phase will not give 100% of their elimination, it can only slightly improve the condition of the skin.
Persons prone to stretch marks:
- obesity problems
- children in adolescence
- pregnancy and menopause in women
- bodybuilders
- frequent weight fluctuations
- people who are very often on a low-calorie diet
- taking steroidal medication
- with genetic predisposition
Stretch marks can occur in men and women, obese and slim people, elderly and teenagers. This problem concerns more or less about 90% of pregnant women.
Collagen deficiency as a cause of stretch marks
Collagen deficiency is very often associated with stretch marks, so it is worth starting with the fact that the stripes are the result of excessive stretching of the skin under the influence of various factors. Stretch marks are most often attacked by pregnant women and women exercising in the gym who want to build muscle mass quickly.
Stretch marks result from the tearing of collagen fibres, which are intended to provide the skin with strength and give it the ability to return to its former shape as a result of stretching. This will not be possible if too much cortisol, which is referred to as the growth hormone, is secreted in our body. Unfortunately, it has a negative effect on fibroblasts, which is why the condition of our skin will also be worse.
Complete the collagen by externally applying it
If someone wants to overcome or prevent stretch marks, they should provide the skin with collagen from the outside. Available in the form of a gel, it will be used on the skin, especially in those places that are most at risk of stretch marks and therefore it is worth protecting themselves from them.