White Lines on Skin: Are They Stretch Marks?
White Lines on Skin: Are They Stretch Marks?
White lines are not a diagnosis
A pale line or patch may have different explanations. A written description cannot establish whether it is a stretch mark, another scar or a different skin change. Do not choose a treatment solely because the change looks white.
What to discuss
Describe when the change appeared, whether it is changing, the precise body area and any symptoms. Mention previous injury and medicines or products used on the skin. Clinical assessment should come before attempts to alter its colour or texture.
Avoid treating an assumed cause
Do not start a steroid, pigment treatment, acid, laser or other procedure based on a list of possible conditions. Treatments appropriate for one diagnosis may not be appropriate for another. Do not change prescribed medicines without speaking to the prescriber.
Cosmetic care has a separate role
Once the nature of the change is established, ask whether any cosmetic care is appropriate and what its limits are. General stretch-mark information cannot establish a diagnosis or an offered medical service.
Your specific question
If the pale change is in a sensitive area, give the clinician its exact location rather than treating it with the same product you might use on another body site.
- Describe where the change is and when it appeared.
- Mention any symptoms and products or medicines used.
- Seek assessment before choosing a cosmetic treatment.