Stretch marks are indented streaks that appear on on the body.
Although, they do not cause significant medical concerns the cosmetic concern is a big deal for most women.
They are usually pinkish, purple, or red color when they form and fade to a pale or brighter colour over time.
About 90% of pregnant women have stretch marks
About 70% of adolescent females have stretch marks
About 40% of adolescent males have stretch marks and mostly those who participate in sports
Stretch marks are commonly seen on the;
Buttocks
Breasts
Thighs
Upper arms
They’re common in pregnant women, especially during the last trimester.
The cause of stretch marks is the stretching of the skin.
Their severity is affected by the degree of stress on the skin and the level of the hormone cortisol also might play a role.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It weakens elastic fibers in the skin.
Anyone can develop stretch marks, but some factors increase your likelihood of getting them, including: 
Genetics
Being pregnant, especially if you’re young
Rapid growth in adolescence
Rapidly gaining or losing weight
Using corticosteroids; creams and pills
Cosmetic surgery
Having breast enlargement surgery
Exercising and using anabolic steroids
Having a genetic disorder such as Cushing syndrome or Marfan syndrome.
What Are The Types Of Stretch Marks?
Striae atrophica; this is the most common type and results from the breakdown of elastin or collagen on the skin.
Striae gravidarum; this type occurs during pregnancy
Striae distensae; this type of stretch mark occurs usually during puberty.
Vergetures; this type of stretch mark looks like a whip’s lashings, appearing long and patterned.
Sadly stretch marks may never go away.
There are ways to fade them;
Laser skin resurfacing
Microneedling
Microdermabrasion
Acid peel treatments
All these must be done with a professional or you just let the marks be.
They are also invasive techniques that improve skin appearance by fading out the stretch marks
Lastly, they are expensive.
However, there are other options;
Use of prescription topical creams
Aloe vera
Use of vitamin C
Use of retinol
Lifestyle modifications like;
-staying hydrated
-Exercising to maintain a healthy weight
-Eating right boosts your immune system and also maintains a healthy weight
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