What should I do about stretch marks from weight gain?

Generally speaking, obesity striae are also known as stretch marks. Stretch marks may be caused by rapid weight gain, adolescent growth spurts, skin aging, congenital skin laxity syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment, including general therapy and medication, under the guidance of a qualified physician. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Rapid Weight Gain

When weight increases rapidly, the skin's elastic and collagen fibers may be stretched to their limit, causing them to tear and form stretch marks. Symptoms may include tightness and itching of the skin. It is recommended to maintain healthy eating habits and avoid significant weight fluctuations in the short term to prevent the formation of stretch marks. Regular massage can also help improve blood circulation and enhance skin elasticity.

2. Adolescent Growth Spurt

During puberty, increased levels of growth hormone lead to rapid physical development, and the skin's elastic and collagen fibers may not keep pace with this growth, resulting in the formation of stretch marks. Symptoms may include rapid increases in height and weight, breast development, and voice changes. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and moderate exercise to help control the rate of weight gain and reduce the occurrence of stretch marks.

3. Skin Aging

With age, the skin gradually loses elasticity and moisture, becoming loose and more prone to developing stretch marks. Symptoms include sagging skin, increased wrinkles, and pigmentation spots. It is recommended to delay the aging process by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, skincare products containing ingredients such as collagen and elastin can promote skin metabolism, enhance skin elasticity, and help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

4. Congenital Skin Laxity Syndrome

Congenital skin laxity syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by gene mutations that affect the normal synthesis and structure of collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, causing it to become loose and prone to developing stretch marks. Symptoms may include joint hypermobility and skeletal deformities. It is recommended to improve joint mobility and muscle strength through physical therapy and rehabilitation training. Skincare products containing vitamin A, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid can also help improve skin elasticity and hydration, thereby reducing the appearance of stretch marks.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism accelerates skin metabolism, leading to the accumulation of metabolic byproducts in the skin, which may contribute to the formation of stretch marks. Symptoms may include weight loss, palpitations, hand tremors, and anxiety. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as methimazole tablets, potassium iodide tablets, and propylthiouracil tablets to help control hyperthyroidism. Maintaining good lifestyle habits, such as a balanced diet and moderate exercise, can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

When treating stretch marks, it is important to choose an appropriate treatment method based on individual circumstances. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mindset is essential.