Hong Kong-based general practitioner Dr Lisa Chan gets candid about skin concerns many face—such as striae, scars and dark circles—but aren’t discussed enough
When it comes to skincare, everyone is different and their skin will evolve and respond to factors in different ways. No two people will have the exact same skin type, skin tone or skin texture. The only thing that is universal is that we all face skin issues—maybe it’s milder for some compared to others, but problems will always exist no matter your skin type.
The more frequently discussed issues include acne and hyperpigmentation, and there are so many products and treatments on the market that target these perceived imperfections. However, there is a whole host of skincare concerns that are just as common, but are much less frequently discussed. This can lead those dealing with it to feel like they’re an anomaly, which can result in embarrassment or insecurities, or feeling like there is no way to address these issues.
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To debunk that misplaced sentiment, here are some very common skin concerns we don’t talk a lot about, and how they can be managed. From stretch marks to dark circles under the eyes, if you’re struggling with any of the below, just know that you’re not alone and there are ways to treat them.
Stretch marks causes and treatments
What is striae and how does it occur?
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are long, narrow streaks or lines that appear on the skin. They can be different colours like white, reddish, or purplish, and they often show up on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, or buttocks. Stretch marks happen when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly—and they are more common in women—especially those with darker skin—and this stretching causes the middle layer of the skin (called the dermis) to tear, and the deeper layers of skin to become visible.
There are several reasons why stretch marks can occur, including rapid growth during puberty, significant weight changes, the expansion of the abdomen during pregnancy, using corticosteroid medications for a long time, and genetic factors that affect the production of proteins important for skin elasticity.
How does striae affect a person’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing?
Physically, striae do not pose any health risks or complications. They are purely a cosmetic issue, do not cause any physical pain or discomfort, [and sometimes] fade to a silver or white over time. Though affected areas of the skin may appear thin and wrinkled, or feel slightly indented or grooved when touched.
Mentally [and emotionally], striae might cause embarrassment and self-consciousness, which might affect someone’s clothing choice, social activities, self-image, and self-esteem, or create feelings of anxiety and depression. If the striae occurs after pregnancy, this could potentially compound the stress inherent to pregnancy.