Causes of stretch marks on the body in men

Stretch marks on the skin, or stretch marks, that appear during pregnancy and after childbirth, as a result of weight gain, etc. - a problem familiar to most women. However, oddly enough, many men also know firsthand about stretch marks.

Stretch marks on the body of men are less common than in women, but, nevertheless, this is not such an exotic problem for the stronger sex. And if women almost always know why they might get stretch marks, how to prevent them or how to deal with existing ones, then men are usually not so competent in such matters.

What causes stretch marks in men?

Firstly, just like in women, stretch marks appear with significant weight gain. When this process occurs in a short time, the skin simply does not have enough elasticity to “encompass” the increased volumes.

Secondly, oddly enough, playing sports can also trigger the appearance of stretch marks. This is especially true for those who are actively building muscle mass. As with weight gain, the skin becomes less elastic. Such stretch marks appear especially often on the arms and shoulders, closer to the armpits.

Thirdly, stretch marks can appear in men taking corticosteroids or glucocorticoids, which worsen skin tone and often lead to weight gain.

Also factors influencing the occurrence of stretch marks are diseases of the thyroid and pancreas, hormonal changes in adolescence, and hereditary predisposition.

The areas of the body where stretch marks most often appear in men are the stomach and arms; stretch marks can also be located on the legs, back, and groin.

Naturally, unlike women, for whom stretch marks sometimes turn into a real drama, most men take these little troubles much more calmly, because stretch marks do not pose any threat to health, but are a purely cosmetic defect. However, this does not mean that the issue of combating stretch marks for men is irrelevant. And for professional bodybuilders, for example, smooth and even skin generally becomes a requirement of the profession.

How to remove stretch marks on the stomach in men? How to get rid of stretch marks on the back in men?

Fresh, recently appeared stretch marks usually have a reddish or purple tint. Over time, they lighten, becoming white or translucent. The older the stretch marks, the more difficult it is to get rid of them.

If getting rid of stretch marks is a matter of principle, then it is better to resort to professional salon procedures.

Chemical peels - the skin is treated with acid, as a result of which the upper layers are completely renewed. Immediately after the procedure, there is usually severe redness and irritation, which goes away after a few days and the results become noticeable. This method is suitable for combating stretch marks on the abdomen.

Mesotherapy: injections of special medicinal preparations are made at the locations of stretch marks, which improve the structure of the skin and gradually make stretch marks less and less noticeable.

Laser resurfacing, like peeling, eliminates stretch marks by renewing the upper layers of the skin, but this procedure is less traumatic. In this way, you can remove stretch marks on the stomach, back, legs, etc.

How to remove stretch marks on men's arms? Stretch marks on men's legs, treatment

In addition to salon procedures, there are also folk remedies for eliminating stretch marks. However, here it is better to tune in to long-term and consistent use and not expect brilliant results, especially when it comes to stretch marks with a long shelf life.

For example, in order to make stretch marks on the arms or legs less visible, you need to apply a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and badyagi powder (the ratio of the components is approximately 1:1) to the problem areas. The mixture is applied for 10 minutes, then washed off. The procedure must be repeated every day or every other day at least 10 times in a row.

Honey wrap is also effective. Honey is heated in a water bath and applied to those places on the arms or legs where there are stretch marks. Wrap the top of your arms or legs with cling film and put on something warm. After 40 minutes, the honey can be washed off.

Wrapping with kelp (purchased at a pharmacy) gives good results. The contents of the package are filled with warm water, and when the algae swells, they are applied to areas with pronounced stretch marks, wrapped in cling film and left for 20 minutes.

As an auxiliary home remedy to combat stretch marks in men, it is useful to use body scrubs. This can be any ready-made scrub, which is applied to the “target” areas with massage movements and washed off in the shower. You can also prepare the scrub yourself - for example, from ground coffee or grape seeds crushed in a blender. Both are added to the shower gel.

There are also ready-made cosmetic products for stretch marks that can be used by both men and women. Such compositions are available in the lines of the brands Vichy, Collistar, Clarins, Biotherm and others.

Prevention of stretch marks

Dealing with stretch marks that have already appeared is not easy, so it is advisable to take measures to prevent their occurrence. How can you prevent stretch marks? Of course, try to avoid the main risk factors as much as possible - avoid large weight gains in a short period, increase muscle mass gradually when playing sports, and monitor the state of the endocrine system. In addition, you can:

1. drink enough liquid - at least 2 liters of clean water per day (tea, coffee, juices and other drinks are not taken into account);
2. be sure to eat protein foods;
3. include in your diet more foods containing vitamins C, A and E, as well as zinc.

To protect yourself from the appearance of stretch marks on specific areas of the body, it is very useful to use wheat germ oil (regularly rubbed into the skin with massage movements).

Stretch marks or stretch marks are a specific pathology of skin tissue in the form of characteristic scars. Typically, such scar-like changes occur due to microtrauma of the epidermis due to a lack of collagen protein, which gives the skin elasticity. Sometimes the causes of stretch marks can be due to hereditary factors and certain endocrine diseases.

Many people believe that stretch marks are an exclusively female ailment that has nothing to do with the stronger sex. Let us immediately note that this opinion is erroneous and formed, most likely, because the resulting stretch marks cause women more cosmetic concerns than men.

Indeed, due to a number of factors related, first of all, to the function of childbirth, stretch marks in women form much more often than stretch marks in men. It is noteworthy that similar dynamics are also observed in childhood and adolescence: the results of statistical studies show that stretch marks occur more often in girls compared to the appearance of stretch marks in boys. However, men who take care of themselves are no less concerned about the problem of getting rid of stretch marks than women: every stretch mark is a cause for concern for them.

Causes of stretch marks in men

Striae in men can occur in various parts of the body.

1. stretch marks on the stomach;
2. stretch marks on legs;
3. stretch marks on the thighs;
4. stretch marks on the buttocks;
5. stretch marks in the groin area;
6. stretch marks on the back and other places where the skin and muscles are subject to particularly strong stress.

Below are the main causes of stretch marks in men.

1. Physical inactivity and poor nutrition. Most often, stretch marks occur in men who lead a sedentary lifestyle, whose diet is replete with excessive amounts of foods rich in fats and carbohydrates. Which, in turn, leads to obesity and stretching of the skin under the pressure of fatty deposits.
2. Rapid increase in muscle volume due to intense physical activity. As a rule, stretch marks form in men involved in bodybuilding and other activities associated with the constant movement of heavy objects. Anabolic steroids, which are popular among bodybuilders, also contribute to intense muscle growth. The growth of muscle mass should be controlled, otherwise stretching of the skin, its micro-tears and, as a result, the appearance of stretch marks cannot be avoided.
3. Long-term treatment with hormonal drugs based on glucocorticosteroids (prednisolone, dexamethasone, etc.). Under their influence, specific obesity develops, accompanied by the appearance of stretch marks, not only in men, but also in the fair sex.
4. Age-related changes in hormonal levels, which can lead to the appearance of stretch marks in teenage, mature and elderly men.
5. Hereditary genetic predisposition. It has been scientifically established and confirmed by practice that children and grandchildren of people suffering from stretch marks are most susceptible to the appearance of stretch marks.
6. A number of diseases of endocrine origin that can cause obesity with the concomitant development of stretch marks.

Treatment of stretch marks in men using COLLOST® gel

It is impossible to eliminate old stretch marks at home. Until recently, effective removal of these stretch marks in men was practiced only with the use of such serious cosmetic procedures as laser/chemical peeling or abdominal plastic surgery (excision). Such treatment of stretch marks is accompanied by pain and carries a certain degree of risk to the health of patients.

It was possible to radically improve the situation with getting rid of old stretch marks in men only after the introduction into cosmetology practice of such an innovative biomaterial as COLLOST® collagen gel based on natural collagen.

Collostotherapy is a currently widely used method that allows you to remove stretch marks in men without any problems. It consists in the fact that COLLOST® gel is administered intradermally by injection into the stretch area. Under the influence of COLLOST® gel on stretch marks, healthy tissue is restored.

Collagen gel COLLOST ® has the following main advantages.

1. Safety. COLLOST ® gel is non-toxic. When using it to eliminate stretch marks in men, you don’t have to worry about undesirable consequences, and a preliminary test will help you avoid allergic manifestations.
2. Comfort of use. Relieving men of stretch marks using COLLOST ® gel is a virtually painless cosmetic procedure.
3. High performance. Injecting COLLOST® gel directly into stretch marks is the surest way to quickly achieve the expected result.

Judging by numerous reviews from patients and data from official tests, the removal of stretch marks in men using COLLOST® gel is superior in effectiveness to all other methods of cosmetic treatment of stretch marks.

Stretch marks are a fairly common phenomenon. It is generally accepted that this problem, like cellulite, is faced exclusively by women.

This is not true at all. Striae can also appear in men.

In essence, stretch marks are atrophic scars. They look like curved, repeating stripes on the dermis. Stretch marks in men, as well as in women, can have different colors.

For example, fresh striae have a pinkish or reddish color, while old ones have a whitish color.

Frequent localization of cosmetic defects is the abdomen, thighs, armpits, forearms, groin, lower back, back. The appearance of scars is caused by stretching and rupture of elastin and collagen fibers.

Why do they appear?

There are actually plenty of reasons for the appearance of stretch marks. A problem may arise due to frequent and sudden weight loss or weight gain, excessive physical activity, hormonal changes, or the use of corticosteroids.

The occurrence of stretch marks in representatives of the stronger half of society may be due to:

1. Genetic predisposition. Some men have a tendency to form atrophic scars. If one of the parents has this problem, it is quite possible that stretch marks will appear in the child. Although stretch marks in representatives of the stronger half are not a common occurrence, they can appear at any age.
2. The presence of pathologies of the pancreas. One of the main reasons for the formation of stretch marks is a malfunction in the functioning of this organ. Marfan syndrome, characterized by abnormal development of connective tissue, provokes the appearance of stretch marks. This disease is accompanied by an increase in the production of the hormone cortisol. As a result, the skin becomes too tender and less elastic.
3. Rapid weight gain. Quite often, stretch marks are formed due to a sharp gain in body weight over a short period. The appearance of stretch marks is caused by rapid tissue stretching. As a result, the skin becomes thinner and breaks. Microtraumas appear on the skin. This problem is often faced by athletes who suddenly gain weight. It is possible that stretch marks may appear in adolescents (due to hormonal changes).
4. Dramatic weight loss. Often the formation of stretch marks in men occurs due to loss of body weight. When losing weight, there is a loss of nutrients in the skin, as well as a decrease in elasticity.
5. Excessive physical activity. Bodybuilders often experience the formation of atrophic scars. If you do not control the increase in muscle volume, this is fraught with its rapid increase and rupture of dermal fibers.
6. Abuse of corticosteroids. Drugs in this group help to increase the body’s protective properties, minimize the inflammatory process and accelerate the healing of wounds on the dermis. One such drug is prednisone, which helps treat arthritis and asthma. Excessive use of corticosteroids can lead to the formation of stretch marks.

Localization of striae

Stretch marks among representatives of the stronger half of society can form on almost any part of the body. However, the favorite localization of stretch marks in men is the back, abdomen, hips, chest, buttocks, lower back, groin, armpit area, and arms.

Today, many men take care of their body and improve it in every possible way. The fight against stretch marks is not an easy and lengthy process. But possible. The result is worth the time and patience. It is completely impossible to get rid of stretch marks. But reducing stretch marks and making them less noticeable is something everyone can do.

Along with various procedures and medications (creams), several effective exercises will help minimize atrophic scars:

1. 
   
   
   
   Striae in the area of ​​the shoulders and forearms can be removed by performing exercises with a barbell. The most effective exercises include: raising arms with dumbbells in a standing position, pressing the barbell upward from the chest and from behind the head.
2. Push-ups and bench presses will help minimize stretch marks in the chest area.
3. You can remove stretch marks in the abdominal area with abdominal exercises.
4. Simple squats are effective in combating stretch marks on the legs.
5. You can minimize stretch marks in the buttocks by running with your knees raised.
6. Bends to the sides with dumbbells will help reduce stretch marks in the back area.

It is worth considering the fact that atrophic scars in the buttocks and shoulders are very difficult and slow to remove. Exercise alone will not be enough. In this case, you cannot do without cosmetic procedures, peeling, the use of creams and wraps.

Effective means

There are many ways and means to help eliminate such an unpleasant problem as stretch marks. However, the most effective are retinoids and oils. Retinoids are analogues of vitamin A (retinol compounds in their pure form are less stable compared to their derivatives).

That is why retinol palmitate is often added to creams to reduce atrophic scars. One form of vitamin A is retinoic acid. The products can be purchased both at the pharmacy and in the online store, with or without a prescription. Prescription medications are effective, but if the stretch marks are minor, over-the-counter medications may help treat the problem.

Retinoid creams help:

1. renewal of dermal cells;
2. formation of new elastin and collagen fibers;
3. restoring firmness and elasticity to the skin.

Preparations with retinoids will help eliminate stretch marks in men in a short time. After using the cream, a decrease in the size of the stripes is noted. Using oils is also effective.

Vegetable and essential oils are endowed with natural, nourishing and moisturizing substances that help improve the condition of the skin, restoring its firmness and elasticity.

In addition, oils supply the dermis with vitamins and other beneficial substances. Often, in the fight against stretch marks, the use of the following oils is prescribed: wheat germ, jojoba, coconut, olive. You can use oils in their pure form or buy preparations with them.

The correct selection of cosmetic products, as well as the appropriate and regular use of oils or formulations with them, will help reduce cosmetic defects and improve the condition of the dermis. Essential oils are effective in the fight against stretch marks.

Experts recommend the use of orange, lemon, lavender, rose, jasmine, and tangerine oils. Orange oil helps improve the tone of the dermis. In addition, it has a softening effect. Lemon essential oil helps stimulate blood flow to problem areas. Lavender oil has a relaxing effect and helps smooth out the relief of the dermis. Rose oil helps in increasing the elasticity of the dermis.

Since essential oils are not recommended for use in their pure form (this can cause burns), experts advise mixing them with base oils. Similar oil mixtures can be used to massage problem areas. Good results can be achieved by mixing olive oil - 10 ml with almond and lavender essential oils - three drops. This mixture must be rubbed into areas with stretch marks every day.

The following mixtures are no less effective:

1. olive oil - 10 ml with essential oil of frankincense and lavender - three drops;
2. rosehip seed oil (10 ml) with hazelnut essential oil - two drops;
3. wheat germ oil (10 ml) with essential oils of tangerine, neroli and lavender - three drops each.

Prevention

Striae among representatives of the stronger half of society is a fairly common problem. Eliminating stretch marks is many times more difficult than preventing their occurrence.

To prevent the appearance of white stripes on the body, it is recommended:

1. play sports, but in moderation;
2. eat more foods rich in ascorbic acid, vitamin A and E;
3. introduce protein-rich foods into your diet;
4. eat more fruits and vegetables;
5. drink at least two liters of liquid per day;
6. monitor your diet, eat healthy foods rich in amino acids, vitamins and beneficial microelements.