What are the Different Types of Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks, or striae, are a type of skin scarring that affects the dermis and epidermis layers of the human skin. First appearing as red or purple lines on the skin, the scars usually fade to silver-pink or white within a few years. The striae are believed to be a result of tearing to the dermis, and are caused by several different conditions and factors. The human skin is made up of three layers. The visible layer is called the epidermis, and is where the marks appear. The middle layer, called the dermis, is rich in collagen, which is meant to keep the skin taut. In periods of rapid growth, collagen production may not be able to keep up with the stretching of skin, and the dermis can tear and lose elasticity. This tearing can result in discolored scarring of the skin.
