What Causes Stretch Marks?

Some of the most common causes of stretch marks are:

• Pregnancy is the most typical cause of stretch marks in women. During pregnancy a woman gains weight and her skin stretches rapidly. This can cause stretch marks to form. Even in the case of a small amount of weight gain that does not cause the skin to overstretch, hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause her to develop stretch marks.

• Growth spurts during puberty and rapid weight gain can cause the skin to stretch faster than it is able to handle.

• Dieting and losing or gaining weight over a short period can cause stress on the skin.

• Body building and the rapid growth of muscle results in overstretching of the skin.

• Poor nutrition and the lack of foods that aid the the production of collagen.

• Hormones such as corticosteroid decreases collagen in the skin.

• The excessive use of oral or topical steroids.

• Genetics may also play a part as some people are more prone to developing stretch marks while others are not.

Understanding the causes can go a long way in helping to avoid stretch marks!