Stretch marks, or striae, are formed by the stretching or the weakening of the skin. Striae can be caused by the rapid expansion or the thinning of the skin. Different varieties of steroids can cause both of these factors. Stretch marks cannot be completely cured by treatment, so if you are concerned about the effects of steroids on your skin, consult your doctor.
Misuse
Anabolic steroids are the synthetic equivalent of the male hormone testosterone. These steroids have a genuine use in treating conditions such as delayed puberty and body wastage from HIV, and they have been used since the 1930s, according to the Office of National Drug Control Policy. However, anabolic steroids are sometimes abused by athletes. One of the signs of steroid abuse is stretch marks, caused by the rapid growth of muscle. The shoulders and upper arms are largely affected. If you suspect that someone you know is abusing steroids, look out for other side effects such as acne, jaundice and quick injury.
Corticosteroid Use
Corticosteroids are prescribed for some conditions, such as arthritis, to relieve pain and inflammation. Side effects of oral corticosteroids include weight gain and sometimes stretch marks. Oral corticosteroids can cause rapid weight gain, which may lead to the development of stretch marks, and they can thin the skin when used long term, which makes it more prone to damage such as stretch marks. Corticosteroids are also used in creams for certain skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Long-term use can lead to thinning of the skin, which weakens the skin. This may cause stretch marks to develop.
Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome, a disease caused by the body's overproduction of the steroid cortisol, can lead to stretch marks. The syndrome can also develop as a consequence of overuse of synthetic steroids or adrenal gland disorders, according to MedlinePlus. Skin is weakened in those with Cushing's syndrome due to the increase of cortisol in the body. As a consequence, the skin is more prone to damage, so the sufferer is susceptible to bruising, poor skin healing and stretch marks. If you suffer form Cushing's syndrome, stretch marks may be unavoidable.
Treatment
There are a number of treatments available for stretch marks. Different laser therapies are used commonly. These either promote the proteins elastin and collagen, encouraging the skin to heal itself, or the pigment melanin, to match the striae to the skin's own tone. Microdermabrasion uses crystal to buff off the damaged top layer of skin, revealing the healthier under-layer. This also promotes elastin and collagen production. Tretinoin cream is also used to reduce the size and severity of stretch marks.
Warning
Anabolic steroids can have more serious side effects than stretch marks. These steroids can stunt growth, cause liver cancer, damage the heart and raise cholesterol. Steroids can also affect the male appendage and cause violent mood swings, so never take them without prescription. If you or anyone you know has a problem with steroid use, contact a doctor immediately.
References
- Office of National Drug Control Policy: Steroids Facts & Figures
- University of Dayton: Is My Child Using Steroids? The Hidden Signs
- UW Medicine: Corticosteroids for Arthritis
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Lichen Sclerosus
- MedlinePlus: Cushing Syndrome
- MedlinePlus: Stretch Marks -- Drugs and Treatment
