Stretch Marks

Introduction: Why Stretch Marks Need a Whole-Body Approach

Stretch marks are often dismissed as a cosmetic concern—but they tell a deeper story. Whether caused by rapid weight change, hormonal shifts, or pregnancy, stretch marks often indicate internal imbalances in collagen, hormones, or skin elasticity.

At Patients Medical in New York City, we offer an integrative dermatology approach. We combine functional testing, natural therapies, and advanced aesthetic treatments to help your skin repair and regenerate from the inside out.

We don’t just fade marks—we restore skin integrity and wellness.

What Are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are scar-like lines that develop when the skin stretches too quickly or is weakened from within.

They often appear during:

  • Pregnancy
  • Rapid weight gain or loss
  • Puberty growth spurts
  • Bodybuilding
  • Hormonal changes (cortisol, estrogen, testosterone)
  • Certain medications (like corticosteroids)

Stretch marks usually start out red, purple, or dark brown (new), and fade to white or silvery lines (older scars).

Common Areas Affected by Stretch Marks

They may also be accompanied by itchiness or sensitivity in early stages.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Stretch Marks?

From a functional medicine lens, stretch marks are a sign of structural skin breakdown. We investigate root causes such as:

  • Hormonal Imbalances: High cortisol levels weaken skin collagen. Estrogen/testosterone shifts during puberty or pregnancy also play a role.
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Lack of zinc, vitamin C, protein, and silica can impair collagen synthesis.
  • Chronic Inflammation: Inflammatory diets or leaky gut can reduce the body’s ability to heal tissue.
  • Genetic Predisposition: Some people are more prone due to inherited connective tissue traits.
  • Skin Barrier Dysfunction: Compromised skin microbiome or hydration levels affect elasticity.
  • Toxin Exposure: Environmental or internal toxins can reduce collagen and elastin production.

 

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we assess both the visible marks and underlying biology:

Hormonal testing (cortisol, DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, thyroid)

Nutritional status (zinc, vitamin C, B-complex, amino acids)

Inflammatory markers (CRP, homocysteine)

Gut health testing (leaky gut, dysbiosis)

Skin microbiome panels

Oxidative stress testing

Integrative Treatments for Stretch Marks

Our programs are tailored to your age, skin type, severity of marks, and test results. Here’s how we address stretch marks naturally and effectively:

Nutritional Therapy for Skin Repair

We recommend a skin-healing diet rich in:

  • Collagen-building amino acids (glycine, proline)
  • Vitamin C and bioflavonoids
  • Zinc and silica for skin structure
  • Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
  • Elimination of processed sugar and refined carbs

IV Nutrient Therapy

We offer targeted nutrient infusions to help rebuild skin:

  • Vitamin C (collagen synthesis)
  • Zinc and copper (skin remodeling)
  • Biotin and B-vitamins
  • Glutathione (detox and skin clarity)

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Evidence-based supplements we may use:

  • Collagen peptides
  • Gotu kola (Centella asiatica)
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • MSM (methylsulfonylmethane)
  • Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola) for hormone balance

All supplements are prescribed under professional guidance.

Skin Rejuvenation Therapies

Our aesthetic medical team may recommend:

  • Microneedling with growth factor serums
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy
  • LED red light therapy
  • Fractional laser for deeper scars
  • Natural peptide-based topical serums

Hormonal Balancing

We identify and correct hormonal patterns driving skin damage, including:

  • Elevated cortisol
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Estrogen dominance or deficiency
  • Low DHEA

Detox and Liver Support

Skin is a detox organ. We support optimal skin regeneration with:

  • Herbal liver cleanses
  • Gentle infrared sauna detox
  • Gut repair protocols (especially post-antibiotics or hormonal therapy)

Real Case Study: Sarah’s Skin Confidence Reboot

Sarah, a 29-year-old yoga instructor, came to us with deep red stretch marks on her thighs and hips post-pregnancy. She had tried over-the-counter creams with no success.

Our testing showed:

  • Elevated cortisol
  • Low zinc and vitamin C
  • Mild thyroid sluggishness

We designed a 10-week integrative plan:

  • Hormonal balancing and adrenal support
  • IV Vitamin C therapy
  • Collagen + hyaluronic acid supplementation
  • PRP microneedling every 3 weeks
  • Anti-inflammatory skincare routine

After 3 months, Sarah’s stretch marks faded significantly, her skin elasticity improved, and she felt more confident in her body.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 They can fade significantly with the right internal and external treatments, though complete removal depends on severity and timing.

 Most over-the-counter creams offer limited results. We focus on deeper collagen regeneration and skin cell renewal.

 Early treatment—when they are still red or purple—yields the best outcomes. But older scars can still improve.

 Absolutely. Nutrient deficiencies and high-sugar diets can impair collagen formation and skin elasticity.

It’s minimally uncomfortable and well tolerated. We offer numbing cream before sessions.

 Typically, 3–6 microneedling or PRP treatments spaced a few weeks apart.

 Yes, stretch marks affect all genders and ages. We personalize care accordingly.

Yes. We address underlying hormonal and structural factors from rapid muscle growth.

 We customize gentle and hypoallergenic options, including non-invasive LED light and botanical topicals.

 We’re an out-of-network provider, but we can offer superbills. Some functional lab tests may be reimbursable.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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