Stretch Mark in Men: Causes and Treatment

Yes, stretch marks can also affect men! It’s a common misconception that only women get them because of pregnancy. While pregnancy is one of the most common causes for stretch marks, over 25% of sufferers are men (HRA internal).

• Causes include sudden weight gain or quick muscle mass increase
• Genetics and hormones can play a part in the chances you’ll get stretch marks.
• Whatever you’re planning to change your body shape – do it slowly.
• Stay hydrated and use moisturiser to help prevent stretch marks.
• Products are available that help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Contents:

• What are male stretch marks?
• What causes stretch marks for men?
• What do stretch marks look like?
• How can men prevent stretch marks?
• How can men look after stretch marks?
• The best stretch mark scar products for men

What are male stretch marks?

Stretch marks for men and women are pretty much the same thing. But while pregnancy is one of the largest factors for women, there are other reasons why men might get them too – including puberty, sudden weight gain or a quick increase in muscle mass.

What causes stretch marks for men?

When skin is stretched too fast, the underlying connective tissue has a difficult time keeping up. That tissue is the support structure which gives the skin its strength and elasticity. How prone you are to getting stretch marks seems to be influenced by genetics and hormones^[1,2].

What do stretch marks look like?

Stretch marks appear as rippled streaks, medically also called striae, most commonly on the stomach, chest, buttocks, thighs, and upper arms. Their appearance depends on your skin type and colour. On pale skin, they usually appear as red or pink to purplish-blue streaks when fresh and become thinner, paler, and rather indented over time.

How can men prevent stretch marks?

Do you want pack on a bit of muscle, lose, or gain weight for some reason? These changes make a difference all over your body – and your skin is no different.

Whatever you are going to do, do it slowly. Putting on muscles or gaining or losing weight slowly will give your skin time to adjust to the stretching. You can support your skin with a balanced diet including vitamins E and C as well as zinc, and drinking plenty of water^[3].

Most importantly, keep your skin hydrated to give it the elasticity it needs to expand or re-contract. A moisturising regime might be the way to go if you want to prevent your skin from keeping a mark.

There are several topical creams and oils on the market. Some are available by prescription, but most can be obtained over the counter. Mederma® Stretch Marks could give your skin the elasticity it needs to respond better to the stresses which potentially cause stretch marks.

How can men look after stretch marks?

If you have already gained muscle or lost weight, and are reminded of your efforts by annoying stretch marks, it’s not great news. Unfortunately, stretch marks do not usually completely disappear, and there is no treatment that will completely remove them. But don’t worry, they do usually fade with time, especially when properly cared for!

There are some natural products that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but the most important thing is to support your skin’s elasticity by regularly moisturizing. Regular means just that: a real moisturising regime, at least twice a day. There are several stretch mark care cosmetic products available. No matter which products you choose, the most important ingredients for success are tenacity and patience as results take time to show^[4].

The best stretch mark care products for men

Any change of shape like weight loss or gain, or muscle mass increase, means the same thing when it comes to avoiding or reducing stretch marks. The key things to consider are a healthy diet, hydration, regular exercise, and, most importantly, a great moisturising regimen.

Products to keep your skin hydrated and plump help to both prevent the arrival of stretch marks and reduce the appearance of existing ones. Collagen stimulating compounds, such as hyaluronic acid or hydrolysed collagen supplement, can help improve skin texture by tightening and plumping your skin. Soothing and moisturizing components are another vital ingredients in the war on stretch marks^[5,6].

Summary

If you’re packing on the muscle, or are experiencing changes in your weight, your skin needs some help to keep up with the changes. Stay hydrated and take your exercise plan slowly to minimise the risk of stretch marks. If they happen, it’s not the end of the world – and help is available in the form of cosmetic stretch mark products to help reduce their appearance.

References