Stretch marks on back are usually found in men, particularly in adolescent males with the onset of puberty. This story provides information regarding the same.
Bidisha Mukherjee
Stretch marks on the back is common among men who are approaching adulthood. This is a part of the normal growth process. It occurs as a result of excessive stretching of the skin as they are growing up fast at this stage.
Men of matured age can get such marks too. Bodybuilders and weightlifters can also get these marks on the back as they gain weight very rapidly. When these marks appear, they look like red horizontal lines. Later, the color of the marks fade and turn into white or gray. They neither pose any threat to your health nor are a symptom of any disease.
Causes There are several causes that can lead to the appearance of these marks on the back. When a young adult male is growing taller and wider, the body is often unable to adjust itself with the pace of the rapid growth.
As a result, the fibers in the dermis or middle layer of the skin get overstretched. As a result they become thin, and therefore, they break. These torn fibers of the inner layer of the skin appear as stretch marks on the skin.
Some researchers believe that the increase in the levels of hormone glucocorticoids is responsible for causing stretch marks on the back. This hormone is released by adrenal glands, and its level becomes higher during puberty and with obesity.
The hormone prevents production of collagen and elastin fibers which is essential to stretch the growing skin. When the tissue gets stretched, it is more prone to tear, and hence, such marks appear.
Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder which can be another cause of this condition. This disease makes the connective tissues of the body defective. As a result, it fails to support the growth of the body. It can happen even if the weight of the person does not change. These marks can come at any age.
Treatment The sight of stretch marks is not very pleasing to the eyes, hence, people want to get rid of these ugly marks. Creams and lotions are popularly used for removing such marks. Opt for such lotions or creams that contain cocoa butter or shea butter, jojoba oil or castor oil.
These ingredients provide the skin with essential nourishment of vitamins and minerals. Dry skin is less elastic as compared to oily skin, and hence, is prone to stretch marks. Such products make the skin elastic and healthy, which is proved to be beneficial in reducing the marks.
Proper exfoliation of the affected skin using a loofah is helpful in this regard. If the marks are minor, then they can be reduced with tanning. Massage of the area and hot bath are two other useful remedies.
When these non-surgical methods fail to show the desired results, then you have to think of the surgical options. There are several surgical procedures for the removal of stretch marks on the back. Laser surgery is the most widely used methods among them.
It involves the removal of affected top layer of the scar tissue using laser beam so that a new skin can grow and replace it. Like any other surgery, this can lead to several complications, and the success rate depends on the size and age of the marks. Therefore, have a detailed discussion with your surgeon before you avail this option.
In order to remove the ugly marks, you have to give special attention to your diet. You have to include those foods that are rich in vitamins like vitamin A, C, and E, and also some foods that have high content of proteins.
Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day. After consulting a doctor, you can take some vitamin supplements too, which can improve the strength and elasticity of the skin.
Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.