Psychological Effects of Stretch Marks

Striae, commonly known as stretch marks are streaks or striped scars that are a different color and texture than the skin. They are a result of rapid weight gain or loss. Stretch marks treatment are not a health risk but can cause self-esteem issues. To some, stretch marks are a minor flaw that do not affect their lives, but to others, stretch marks may cause feeling such as:
• Stretch marks cause many people to feel self-conscious
• Significant anxiety and fear of being judged by others
• Increased social isolation
• Avoidance of social situations, for example swimming
• clothing which would expose stretch marks
• Lead to body image issues
• Avoiding the start of a new intimate relationship

Women are more self-conscious about stretch marks than men. 

A survey conducted by Harris Interactive for Merz Pharmaceuticals found that of 67% of adults were generally happy about their physical appearance, and of those surveyed, 44% of women thought improving the appearance of scars and stretch marks would help improve their overall self-confidence, compared to 25% of men. The survey found that women were more self-conscious about the appearance of stretch marks and scars than men. Stretch marks adversely affected self-confidence of 33 % of women and only 19% of men. 47% of women have tried to hide stretch marks compared to 23% of men. In another survey by Mederma, 34% of women reported that scars / stretch marks would make them feel self-conscious during intimacy with their partner compared to 20% of men.

Fifty to ninety percent of women have some degree of Stretch marks. Men are less likely to focus on a womens stretch marks and are more appreciative of how the woman looks as a total package, while women seem to focus and exaggerate on flaws on their bodies. 

Solutions 

Medical Camouflage For Stretchmarks - A Tattooing Method That Uses Flesh Tone Pigment To Hide The Stretch Marks This Procedure Should Be Performed By An Experienced, Highly Trained Professional Practitioner After Time, (Approximately 5 Years) The Flesh Colored Iron Oxide Pigments Used Titanium is very difficult to remove from the skin. In the procedure fade and disappear while the titanium used for the base is left behind in the skin, forming a lumpy white substance under the skin's surface.

Surgical Stretch mark removal --is one of the few methods that removes striae immediately. Abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” only removes stretch marks found in the mid to lower abdominal area. The surgery is an invasive medical procedure involving risks involving incisions and stitching The skin and outer tissue. The patient needs time to recover. This procedure is very costly and often is not covered by health insurance.
Laser stretch mark removal --There are different types of laser selecting a Stretch Marks Treatment This highly effective method has a large number of Satisfied Patients. Multiple treatments are necessary, and the costs of these treatments can be excessive. It is suggested that a prospective client thoroughly vet a laser treatment facility. Mishandling of high-powered laser equipment can Cause damage to the skin.
Chemical Peel of stretch marks – A thin layer of chemical solution is applied to the stretch marks. The top layer of skin is removed. This treatment promotes the development of new, healthy skin cells. Often times this treatment is painful and creates a burning sensation It is more effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and age spots than removing stretch marks.
Microdermabrasion– Also removes the top layer of skin, enabling new skin cells to replace the old tissue. The procedure involves the spraying of an abrasive crystal powder on The skin. The treatment needs to be repeated over time and does not fully remove stretch marks. . Is More Effective On Less Severe Stretch Marks
Microneedling -.. Works By Making Tiny Micro-Perforations In The Skin, Causing The Production Of New Collagen And Elastin The Depressions In The Skin Are Lifted And The Skin Is Smoother Multiple Treatments Are Needed With Little . To No Down Time
Topical Treatments -.. Creams And Ointment Applied To Affected Areas Are A More Affordable, Safe And Painless Method Topical Stretch Mark Removal Is Not An Immediate Process Daily Application Results In Less Visible Stretch Marks.
There have been several movements on social media that promote celebrating stretch marks. Harris Has proclaimed March 19, as national stretch mark day. The day is dedicated to celebrating stretch marks. According to Aanya, “This is a self-esteem boosting holiday where you wear your tiger stripes shamelessly”.