How to remove stretch marks in children
Nov 15, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In daily life, parents should pay attention to their children's living habits, avoid excessive pulling on the skin, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote healthy skin development. The appearance of striae in children may be due to factors such as genetics, rapid growth and development, quick weight gain, long-term use of corticosteroid medications, or Cushing's syndrome. Treatment methods such as general management and medication can be adopted under the guidance of a doctor to help reduce or eliminate these marks.
In general, growth lines refer to striae atrophicans. The appearance of striae in children may be due to genetic factors, rapid growth and development, rapid weight gain, long-term use of corticosteroid medications, or Cushing's syndrome. These can be treated under medical guidance through general measures or medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Genetics
If a child's parents or family members have a history of striae, the child's risk of developing them increases. It is important to avoid excessive stretching of the skin and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and moderate exercise.
2. Rapid Growth and Development
During puberty or periods of rapid growth, bones and muscles may grow faster than the skin can stretch, causing the elastic fibers in the dermis to tear and form striae. Usually, no special treatment is required. A balanced diet rich in collagen and vitamins is recommended, along with sufficient sleep and hydration.
3. Rapid Weight Gain
Rapid weight gain increases tension on the skin, leading to overstretching and rupture of elastic fibers in the dermis, resulting in striae. It is important to control diet by reducing intake of high-calorie foods and to increase physical activity to lose weight.
4. Long-Term Use of Corticosteroid Medications
Prolonged use of corticosteroids, such as glucocorticoids, can inhibit the synthesis and repair of skin elastic fibers, reducing skin elasticity and increasing the likelihood of striae formation. Dosage should be gradually reduced under medical supervision to prevent rebound effects from abrupt discontinuation.
5. Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome results from excessive secretion of glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex, leading to degeneration of elastic fibers in the skin and making them prone to rupture and striae formation. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as obesity and moon face. Treatment may include medications such as spironolactone tablets, hydrocortisone cream, and potassium chloride sustained-release tablets, as directed by a physician.
Parents should pay attention to their child's daily habits, avoid excessive skin stretching, and promote healthy skin development through a healthy lifestyle.
