Purple Stretch Marks: Causes, Treatments, and How to Manage Them
If you’ve noticed deep purple lines on your skin, they’re probably stretch marks. They’re a normal part of life and a sign that your body has undergone a change.
But what causes them to turn purple, and can anything be done about it? Purple stretch marks are a result of the skin stretching quickly, which causes the underlying tissue to tear. These marks appear in various areas, including the abdomen, thighs, and breasts. While they can seem concerning at first, they are generally harmless and fade over time. In this blog, we’ll discuss how purple stretch marks develop, how to treat them, and how to reduce their appearance.
What are Purple Stretch Marks?
Purple stretch marks, also known as striae, form when the skin stretches quickly. Rapid stretching damages the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, which results in the development of visible stretch marks. Initially, they appear red, purple, or dark brown, depending on your skin tone, which is why they’re often referred to as purple stretch marks. Over time, they can fade to a lighter colour, but they don’t disappear completely. These marks usually appear on areas of the body that tend to stretch the most, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, and breasts.
Purple stretch marks are caused by a variety of factors, most commonly linked to rapid skin stretching. Here are the main causes of purple stretch marks:
Rapid Weight Gain or Loss
Rapid changes in weight, whether from diet, exercise, or other factors, can lead to purple stretch marks. When the skin stretches or shrinks quickly, it puts pressure on the collagen and elastin fibres.
This causes visible marks to appear, especially during significant weight gain or sudden weight loss. It’s a common reason many people develop stretch marks on areas like the stomach, thighs, and arms.
Puberty
Puberty often causes rapid growth, which can stretch the skin faster than it can keep up. This is especially common in areas like the hips, thighs, breasts, and sometimes the lower back.
As a result, teens may notice purple stretch marks appearing during these growth spurts. It’s a normal part of development and nothing to be concerned about.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or while taking certain medications can trigger purple stretch marks. These changes often increase cortisol levels in the body. High cortisol weakens collagen and reduces skin elasticity, making the skin more prone to tearing. As a result, stretch marks are more likely to appear during times of hormonal fluctuation.
Genetics
Some people are more prone to purple stretch marks due to their genetics. If your parents or close family members have them, you’re more likely to get them too. Genetics can influence how your skin responds to stretching and how well it heals.
Pregnancy
It’s completely normal to develop purple stretch marks during pregnancy. As the belly grows, especially in the second and third trimesters, the skin stretches rapidly. Hormonal changes also play a role.
These marks often appear on the stomach, thighs, or breasts. While noticeable at first, they usually fade over time. Using ointment for stretch marks during pregnancy may help, but always consult a healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe.
While purple stretch marks may not disappear entirely, there are effective ways to get rid of purple stretch marks or at least make them less noticeable. Here are some of the best treatments for purple stretch marks to help manage and reduce their appearance:
● Ointments and Creams
Ointments with hyaluronic acid or peptides can boost collagen, improve texture, and fade stretch marks. Choose one that suits your skin type. You can use Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy to reduce the visibility of stretch marks.
● Microneedling
Microneedling works by creating tiny, controlled punctures in the skin, which encourages it to produce more collagen as part of the healing process. It helps fade stretch marks and works even better when combined with topical treatments.
● Hydration and Moisturisation
Keeping your skin hydrated with oils like almond or cocoa butter can improve elasticity, prevent new stretch marks, and support overall skin health.
Stretch Marks are Normal, so is Wanting to Care for Them
Spotting purple stretch marks might feel unexpected, but they’re a common and natural skin response to changes. They often tell a story of growth, change, or a journey your body has been through. If they bother you, there are gentle ways to care for your skin and help them fade. But it’s also okay to leave them be.
Everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re unsure where to start, speaking to a skin expert can help you find what’s right for you and your body.
Yes, purple stretch marks are normal. They often appear when the skin stretches quickly, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or weight changes. Over time, they usually fade and become less noticeable.
Purple stretch marks aren’t bad or harmful. They’re simply a sign that the skin has stretched quickly. While some people may feel self-conscious about them, they’re completely normal and often fade over time with proper care.
Purple stretch marks usually start to fade within a few months, gradually turning white or silver over time. The full transition can take six months to a year, depending on skin type, age, and how well the skin is cared for.
Purple stretch marks may fade with time, especially after weight loss, but they don’t disappear completely. As they heal, they usually turn lighter or silvery. Moisturising and targeted treatments can help improve their appearance further.
mederma@winmedicare.com
Login
