Many people deal with stretch marks, and these stretch marks are usually scars that appear red or purple and they are a result of skin that has stretched very quickly. The skin can stretch like this for a variety of reasons. Some of them include muscle growth, gaining weight, growth spurts, and of course pregnancy. Although the skin is designed to be elastic, when it gets stretched too far, it can tear the dermis, causing these stretch marks, which are actually scars. So, let's take a look at some of the most common questions people end up asking about stretch marks.

Question 1 What body parts can you get stretch marks on?

Well, you can actually get stretch marks just about anywhere. However, you will find that certain parts of your body are more likely to develop stretch marks than other areas. Usually it is the areas that have more fat cells that are more likely to get stretch marks. Some of the common places that you can get stretch marks include the thighs, under your arms, the hips, stomach, breasts, buttocks, and the upper arms. Usually women are more likely to get stretch marks, but men can develop them as well.

Question 2 What do they look like?

Most of the time when they first form, stretch marks look purplish or reddish in color. As they age, they fade to become a color that is lighter, close to white. Usually the look that they are a bit sunken into the skin surrounding them and their texture is softer and more fragile as well. They look like long lines that are very fine, and usually they appear together with other stretch marks.

Question 3 Can stretch marks cause health risks?

No, stretch marks do not cause any health risks that you have to worry about. They are very common and only affect your skin. Although there are no health risks, many people are frustrated with the appearance of stretch marks and they can cause feelings of low self esteem.

Question 4 Who gets stretch marks?

Anyone may end up dealing with stretch marks. However, there are some people who seem to be more likely to get them. Most pregnant women end up dealing with stretch marks, since they gain weight and their skin does a lot of stretching throughout their pregnancy. Teens often end up dealing with them as they grow quickly through puberty. Also, when bodybuilders bulk up fast or build up their muscles quickly, they can end up getting stretch marks as well.

Question 5 Are there treatment options for stretch marks?

Yes, there are a variety of treatment options that can treat your stretch mark problems. You'll find that there are many lotions and creams out there on the market that can help reduce the appearance of your stretch marks. More drastic options are available as well, such as chemical peels, surgery, and laser therapy. These options can be painful, they cost a lot of money, and there is a big chance that they may not work as well.