These stretch marks begin as striae rubrae and evolve into linear hypopigmented depressions, often with fine wrinkles.Ī reduction in or weakening of elastin fibres and fibrillin microfibrils (a glycoprotein) in the dermis is mostly attributed to the physical and hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy. ![]() (1)Ī pregnant woman may also note stretch mark formations around her lower back area, upper arms, hips and buttocks. Striae gravidarum are classified as secondary to striae distensae and develop as a result of pregnancy. These types of stretch marks are most prominent on the abdomen, breast and thigh areas of a pregnant woman, typically occurring around the 6th or 7th month of gestation but can also occur as early as 24 weeks. Striae Gravidarum (pregnancy stretch marks) Mature stretch marks may also become more prominent as a person naturally loses skin elasticity through the process of aging. Progression from striae rubrae to striae albae is gradual and can take several months to years. Some may even develop a fine wrinkly texture. Here stretch marks become more scar-like, irregularly shaped and hypopigmented (faded / white – losing vascular alterations). ![]() Striae albae is classified as the more chronic (or mature) stage of stretch mark formation. At this stage, stretch marks can also become pruritic (itchy) but are predominantly asymptomatic. Formations gradually increase in both length and width. Markings may appear flat but can sometimes be slightly raised too. Signs of inflammation due to overstretching are most apparent at this stage and the affected skin turns pink / red or violaceous in colour. The number of elastic fibres also decreases. Collagen fibres thicken and become more densely packed, arranging themselves in a more perpendicular or parallel pattern. The epidermis typically flattens (due to gradual atrophy / degeneration) and experiences a loss of rete ridges. ![]() Striae rubrae is classified as the acute stage of stretch marks which presents the earliest physical indications of overstretched skin. Striae atrophicans: Thinned skin associated with stretch marks – this may develop in those with Cushing’s syndrome, due to the prolonged use of corticosteroids or after a surgical procedure.Striae caerulea: Dark blue / purplish stretch marks (also applicable to those with darker complexions).Striae nigrae: Dark grey or black stretch marks (usually applicable to darker complexion skin types).Striae gravidarum: Stretch marks which occur as a result of pregnancy.Other classifications when it comes to types of stretch markes include: Striae rubrae: Pink / red stretch marks.Types of stretch marks can be broken down into two main stage classifications based on their formation and appearance :
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