**Striae Rubrae:** Striae rubrae are the early stage of stretch marks, characterized by slightly raised pink or violet linear marks. These marks run perpendicular to the direction of skin tension. Over time, striae rubrae fade to become hypopigmented, atrophic, and wrinkled, transforming into striae albae. **Striae Albae:** Also known as white stretch marks, striae albae represent the chronic stage of stretch marks. These marks are permanent and may appear wrinkled, depressed, and hypopigmented (faded or white). They result from the stretching of the dermis and are a common skin condition. Striae albae develop from striae rubrae, the acute phase red stretch marks, over several months to years. With aging and decreased skin elasticity, these mature stretch marks may become more noticeable. **Striae Caerulea:** Striae caerulea are dark blue or purple stretch marks, more common in individuals with darker skin tones. Stretch marks are classified based on appearance or epidemiology, with striae caerulea being one type among several: * Striae Gravidarum:** Stretch marks that develop during pregnancy. * Striae Nigrae:** Dark gray or black stretch marks, typically found on darker skin tones. * Striae Atrophicans:** Thinned skin associated with stretch marks, which may develop due to conditions like Cushing's syndrome, prolonged corticosteroid use, or post-surgery. * Striae Rubrae:** Red stretch marks, the initial phase. * Striae Albae:** White stretch marks, the chronic stage. Stretch marks can appear as red or purple lines or streaks running perpendicular to skin tension. They generally become permanent over time, as the body produces skin cells faster than collagen, leading to altered skin architecture. While lotions and creams can help restore some skin pigment, they typically do not repair the underlying tissue damage. **Factors Increasing the Likelihood of Stretch Marks:** - Being female - Family history of stretch marks - Pregnancy, especially in younger women - Rapid growth during adolescence - Rapid weight gain or loss - Use of corticosteroids - Breast enlargement surgery - Exercising - Use of anabolic steroids - Genetic disorders such as Cushing's syndrome or Marfan syndrome In some cases, a doctor may recommend or prescribe medicated products to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. These may include tretinoin creams, retinol, silicon or collagen-based gels, creams with hyaluronic acid, or creams with glycolic or ascorbic acid.