"Causes, skin stretching, hormones, modern treatments"
Reviewing the Causes of Striae
Striae (Striae Distensae) are narrow and depressed lines that usually appear on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, breasts, and arms. These marks occur due to sudden and excessive stretching of the skin. Initially, they are usually red or purple and gradually change to white or silver over time. Striae are generally harmless but are considered aesthetically unpleasant by many individuals. Below, the causes of these marks are discussed in detail:
Rapid Skin Stretching
The primary cause of striae is excessive and sudden skin stretching. When the skin is rapidly stretched, collagen and elastin fibers responsible for maintaining the skin’s strength and elasticity break. These tears lead to narrow and depressed lines known as striae. This stretching typically occurs under the following conditions:
- Rapid Weight Gain: When an individual gains weight quickly, the skin cannot keep up with the increase and tears.
- Rapid Growth During Puberty: During puberty, rapid body growth, especially in areas such as the thighs, arms, and breasts, can cause stretching and result in striae.
- Pregnancy: One of the most common causes of striae is skin stretching during pregnancy. Especially in the third trimester, as the fetus grows and the abdomen enlarges, significant pressure is placed on the skin, leading to stretch marks.
Use of Medications and Steroids
Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids (both oral and topical), can thin the skin and reduce its ability to tolerate stretching. These medications increase cortisol levels in the body, leading to collagen breakdown and striae formation.
Reduced Collagen and Elastin Production
Collagen and elastin are the main proteins in the skin’s structure responsible for maintaining its strength, flexibility, and regeneration. As we age or due to certain internal and external factors, the production of these proteins decreases, reducing the skin’s ability to withstand sudden stretching, thereby increasing the likelihood of striae.
- Factors Reducing Collagen Production: Aging, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, smoking, and an unhealthy diet are among the factors that reduce collagen production.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes play an essential role in the development of striae. Steroid hormones such as cortisol can reduce collagen production, making the skin thinner and less elastic. This makes the skin more vulnerable to stretching.
- Increased Cortisol: Known as the stress hormone, cortisol levels rise in conditions such as severe stress, adrenal gland disorders (like Cushing’s syndrome), and prolonged corticosteroid use. This hormone contributes to collagen breakdown, making the skin prone to stretch marks.
- Hormonal Changes During Puberty and Pregnancy: Increased levels of sex hormones during puberty and pregnancy can also reduce the strength of connective tissue in the skin.
Genetic and Hereditary Factors
Genetic factors also play a role in the development of striae. Individuals with a family history of stretch marks are more likely to experience this issue. Certain genes can affect the body’s collagen and elastin production. Additionally, skin type and elasticity are genetically influenced.
Specific Medical Conditions
Some diseases and medical conditions can increase the likelihood of striae. These include Cushing’s syndrome (elevated cortisol levels in the body) and Marfan syndrome (a genetic disorder affecting connective tissue). These conditions weaken the skin’s structure and reduce its elasticity.
Rapid Changes in Muscle Mass
Athletes or individuals who rapidly increase their muscle mass may develop striae. Increased muscle volume stretches the skin, particularly in areas such as the arms, shoulders, and thighs.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Factors such as an unhealthy diet, dehydration, and chronic stress can also contribute to striae. A diet lacking essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and fatty acids can reduce collagen production, making the skin more prone to damage. Additionally, dehydration reduces the skin’s elasticity.
Modern Technologies for Treatment and Rejuvenation
Cold and Hot Plasma
Plasma, a state of matter where gas is ionized into charged particles, generates high energy and is used in aesthetic medicine in two forms—cold and hot plasma—for skin rejuvenation:
- Hot Plasma: Due to its high temperature, hot plasma is used for treating deeper wrinkles and skin laxity. It creates controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface, stimulating tissue regeneration and new collagen production.
- Cold Plasma: Operating at lower temperatures and using less energy, cold plasma is applied to improve skin texture without damaging deeper layers. It is effective for issues such as acne, pigmentation, and skin tightening, offering fewer side effects.
Carboxytherapy
Carboxytherapy, or CO₂ therapy, is a natural and effective method for skin rejuvenation. By injecting carbon dioxide into skin layers, it stimulates blood circulation and increases oxygen delivery to tissues. This oxygen boost helps produce new collagen and improve skin texture, yielding results such as wrinkle reduction, improved skin tone, and reduced sagging. As a non-invasive method with no downtime, carboxytherapy has gained significant attention.
Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm)
With a wavelength of 1064 nm, Nd:YAG is an advanced technology in skin rejuvenation that penetrates deeper into the skin, targeting underlying tissues effectively. By stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin structure, this laser reduces wrinkles and pigmentation. Its wavelength is suitable for all skin types and is safer for darker skin tones due to reduced melanin absorption.
Advanced Technologies for Treating Striae (Stretch Marks)
Stretch marks, or striae distensae, are lines caused by excessive skin stretching, typically resulting from factors such as pregnancy, rapid weight changes, hormonal shifts, or sudden growth. Treating striae is challenging due to their fibrotic nature. However, modern technologies like cold and hot plasma, carboxytherapy, and Nd:YAG laser can significantly improve their appearance.
Each of these technologies, with its unique mechanisms, offers effective options for treating striae. The choice of the appropriate technology depends on the type of striae (new or old) and the patient’s skin type. Scientific studies show that these methods can enhance collagen production, improve tissue regeneration, and reduce the visibility of striae. Consultation with a dermatologist is essential for selecting the best treatment approach. Below, we examine the positive effects, benefits, and scientific evidence for each technology.
Hot Plasma for Striae Treatment
Mechanism of Action:
Hot plasma creates controlled thermal micro-injuries on the skin surface, activating the repair and regeneration process. These micro-injuries signal fibroblasts to increase collagen and elastin production, improving the appearance of striae.
Positive Effects:
- Collagen Stimulation: New collagen production helps restore the skin and reduce striae depth.
- Tissue Regeneration: Gradually repairs scar tissue, making the skin smoother.
- Increased Skin Firmness: Damaged skin becomes firmer and elasticity improves.
Benefits:
- Effective for Old Striae (White): This technology is effective for chronic striae, which are more difficult to treat.
- Appropriate Penetration Depth: Controlled heat enables penetration into deeper skin layers.
Scientific Studies:
Studies have demonstrated that hot plasma significantly reduces the depth and severity of striae. In a clinical trial, patients reported noticeable improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks after several sessions of hot plasma treatment.
Related Article:
Cold Plasma for Striae Treatment
Mechanism of Action:
Cold plasma activates repair and regeneration processes in the skin without generating high heat. This technology increases localized blood flow and stimulates fibroblasts, contributing to the improvement of striae color and texture.
Positive Effects:
- Reduced Inflammation: Cold plasma helps reduce inflammation in early-stage striae (red or purple).
- Cellular Regeneration: Stimulates superficial skin cells for regeneration.
- Improved Skin Color: Gradually aligns the color of striae closer to the natural skin tone.
Benefits:
- Fewer Side Effects: Suitable for all skin types due to its lower heat levels.
- Effective for New Striae (Red): Delivers the best results for early-stage striae.
Scientific Studies:
Research has shown that cold plasma is effective in treating early-stage striae, helping to reduce redness and inflammation more rapidly.
Related Article:
Carboxytherapy for Striae Treatment
Mechanism of Action:
In carboxytherapy, carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas is injected into the dermal layer of the skin. This gas dilates blood vessels and increases oxygen delivery to tissues. Enhanced blood flow promotes cellular regeneration and collagen production.
Positive Effects:
- Collagen Stimulation: CO₂ injection boosts collagen production, filling the depth of striae.
- Improved Skin Tone: Increased oxygen delivery brightens striae.
- Enhanced Elasticity: Skin in the affected area becomes softer and more flexible.
Benefits:
- Non-Invasive Procedure: Does not involve surgery or cause wounds.
- Short Recovery Time: Patients can return to daily activities immediately after treatment.
Scientific Studies:
Clinical studies indicate that carboxytherapy can improve the appearance of striae. In one study, 80% of patients observed significant improvements in the depth and color of their striae.
Related Article:
Nd:YAG Laser for Striae Treatment
Mechanism of Action:
The Nd:YAG laser, with a wavelength of 1064 nm, penetrates deeply into the dermis and stimulates collagen production. This laser generates gentle heat that aids in the regeneration of damaged tissues.
Positive Effects:
- Deep Collagen Stimulation: Increases collagen production by stimulating fibroblasts in the dermal layer.
- Improved Skin Texture: Enhances the skin’s structure in areas affected by striae.
- Reduced Appearance of Striae: Fades and decreases the depth of striae.
Benefits:
- Effective for Old and White Striae: Due to its deeper penetration, it is effective in treating chronic striae.
- Safe for All Skin Types: The Nd:YAG laser is safer for various skin types, particularly darker skin tones.
Scientific Studies:
Studies have demonstrated that the Nd:YAG laser effectively improves old and white striae. By enhancing collagen production, it reduces striae depth and improves their appearance.
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