The following then and now article is an update to an online exclusive article on stretch marks written by Danné Montague-King in 2009. As science advances, so does our understanding of biological processes, and it is important to stay updated on this research to keep treatments as effective as possible.
Don’t Forget Weight Loss
On the flip side, rapid weight loss, even in the young, can result in striations that resemble marbling throughout a good rib eye steak.
The Role of Cortisol
This next paragraph may have never been written before in this field. I am “research thinking” as I write. It is my contention that cortisol levels also have a big role in stretch mark formation. This is especially true in teenagers, whose cortisol levels go up and down like a seesaw. This cortisol level fluctuation is due to the adrenal glands dancing and jumping with constant bursts of stress initiated by the hypothalamus gland, which is broadcasted to the adrenals by the pituitary gland. This causes loss of elasticity temporarily (more so in seniors). Sudden growth spurts put too much tension on these areas. When the skin relaxes back to a normal, tensile surface there is a breach. Adipose fats can gather there thus giving the “marbling” effects.
Langerhans Protection
Also, these breaches are somewhat of an “internal injury,” and many times the regulators and policemen of cell growth proliferation are compromised. The primary collagen enzyme collagenase is destroyed or compromised when stretch marks form, which can be caused by the acne drug isotretinoin in many cases. However, Langerhans cells play the last frontier of protection of this. A healthy Langerhans army can assist breached tissue into a normal remodeling after cortisol attack if they are kept healthy. Beta glucans are one of the main nourishment factors in stretch mark treatments.
Be Patient
Getting rid of, or minimizing, stretch marks can be done. I’ve done it, but it takes time, patience and total client compliance.
Danné Montague-King is the founder of DMK Skin Care, which is based on his “remove, rebuild, protect, maintain” concept. He is a known educator, author and presenter.
