What causes "Stretch Marks"?

What Causes Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are caused when the skin is stretched to the point of breaking down, similar to elastic losing its' elasticity. Losing collagen and elastin in the skin causes stretch marks, loss of tone, fine lines and wrinkles. When there is a breakdown or loss of elastin and collagen fibers or excessive stretching in the skin, the mark actually shows through to the epidermis (top layer of skin).

Why do people get stretch marks?
There are several different factors that contribute to the formation of stretch marks. Heredity - Some skin is genetically prone to stretch marks Skin Type - Some skin is dryer with less elasticity than others i.e. dry skin vs. oily skin Weight - rapid gain or loss Pregnancy - the weight gain associated with pregnancy although some people are more susceptible to stretch marks, anyone can get them. Stretching of the skin during rapid weight gain or rapid growth (in young children and adolescents) is a major cause of stretch marks. The non-occurrence of stretch marks during one pregnancy does not necessarily mean stretch marks will not occur in another. Stretch marks are not gender specific - men and women are susceptible to these unsightly marks.