The surface phenomenon is caused by any one of the following:
- Weight gain due to pregnancy.
- Weight gain due to lifestyle changes (poor nutrition and lack of exercise).
- Weight gain due to a medical issue (relating to the thyroid, etc.).
- Relatively quick weight gain and muscle growth from bodybuilding.
- Sudden growth spurts in late adolescence.
- Genetics, as some people are predisposed to developing stretch marks later in life.
- Medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome and Marfan syndrome, can compromise skin elasticity and subsequently increase the risk of stretch marks.
Healthline reports that approximately 80-90% of women and 50-70% of men experience stretch marks at some point in their lives. Given how common they are, there is an industry devoted to treating stretch marks. Treatments include laser therapy, micro-needling, and certain topical creams. They generally help reduce the visibility of stretch marks by stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture.
Despite some recourse, little can be done to undo the damage that may occur when stretch marks appear after a tattoo. Tattoo zones most impacted by stretch marks include the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, buttocks, lower back, and even upper arms. Stretch marks can affect a tattoo's appearance by distorting or blurring its lines and designs, which is likely what you have experienced and why you are here. While a highly skilled tattooist may be able to correct some of the damage, there are many cases where it cannot be done to the client's satisfaction.
So what is one to do for a tattoo ruined by stretch marks?
