What Causes Stretch Marks in Men?

Most often found on the chest, hips, thighs, buttocks and flanks, stretch marks are just as common in men as they are in women. Both genders get stretch marks for the same reasons, and -- unless caused by an infection -- they are usually permanent. Body hair often hides stretch marks on men, making them less noticeable on a man's skin than a woman's.

Getting "ripped" muscles can also mean ripping your skin. (Image: Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images)

But I Can't Get Pregnant…

When a woman becomes pregnant, her abdomen can expand so quickly that it creates small tears in her skin, creating visible stretch marks. This same process occurs in men who gain weight quickly and teenagers who experience growth spurts that expand the body more quickly than the skin can adjust. Stretch marks are common in body builders and weight lifters as well when the skin is stretched over quickly developing muscles. Medical conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, Marfan syndrome and diabetes can also cause stretch marks. Some medications are problematic as well, especially those that contain corticosteroids. Heredity also plays a role in stretch marks, making you more likely to develop them if other family members have. The likelihood of stretch marks increases as your skin loses collagen to aging. Yeast and other skin infections may cause stretch marks but, unlike other stretch marks, those caused by infection often go away when the infections is cured.