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Understanding Stretch Marks and the ELN Gene

Stretch marks are narrow streaks or lines that form on the skin when it stretches or shrinks quickly, causing small tears in the collagen and elastin fibers that normally keep skin strong and elastic. Elastin is one of the key proteins that lets skin stretch and then return to its original shape. The ELN gene helps produce elastin. Certain genetic variations in ELN can influence how much functional elastin your body makes and how resilient your skin is to rapid stretching events like growth spurts, pregnancy, or weight change.

How ELN Variants Affect Skin Elasticity

Variations in the ELN gene can lead to reduced elastin production or function. Reduced elastin makes skin less able to stretch and rebound, increasing the chance that the dermal layer will tear and form stretch marks. Genetics is only one part of the picture. Hormones, rapid weight change, pregnancy, hydration, nutrition, sun exposure, and mechanical stress also play major roles. Understanding your genetic tendency can help you choose lifestyle habits and skincare strategies to support skin resilience.

Practical Steps to Support Skin Elasticity

Whether or not you carry ELN variants, the following diet, supplement, skincare, and lifestyle habits support healthy elastin and collagen and may reduce the appearance or severity of stretch marks.

Diet and Nutrition

  • Vitamin C: Essential for collagen synthesis and supports elastin integrity. Eat citrus, berries, bell peppers, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
  • Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect skin cell membranes. Sources include nuts, seeds, spinach, and avocado.
  • Zinc: Supports skin repair and collagen formation. Found in oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and legumes.
  • Protein: Provides amino acids needed for collagen and elastin production. Include lean meats, fish, dairy, legumes, and eggs.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Help support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation. Include fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseed.
  • Hydration: Adequate water intake supports skin turgor and function. Aim for regular fluid intake throughout the day.
  • Antioxidant-rich foods: Colorful fruits and vegetables provide phytochemicals that protect skin from oxidative damage.

Supplements to Consider

  • Collagen peptides: May support skin elasticity and hydration when used regularly.
  • Hyaluronic acid: Can improve skin hydration and may help skin appear plumper.
  • Vitamin C supplement: Supports collagen formation, especially if dietary intake is low.
  • Omega-3 supplements: Fish oil or algal oil can be considered if dietary intake is inadequate.
  • Zinc or vitamin E supplements: Use if a deficiency is suspected or confirmed.

Talk with your healthcare provider before starting supplements to ensure they are safe for you and do not interact with medications or conditions.

Skincare and Lifestyle Habits

  • Moisturize regularly: Products containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid and emollients like ceramides help maintain skin elasticity and barrier function.
  • Sun protection: UV damage degrades collagen and elastin. Use SPF, seek shade, and wear protective clothing.
  • Gradual weight management: Avoid rapid weight gain or loss when possible to reduce mechanical stress on skin.
  • Regular strength and resistance exercise: Builds muscle tone under the skin, may improve appearance and support gradual changes in body shape.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking accelerates skin aging and damages collagen and elastin.
  • Consider professional treatments: If stretch marks are a concern, dermatology treatments such as retinoids, microneedling, laser therapy, or chemical peels may improve appearance. Discuss with a licensed provider.

Genetic Interpretation: ELN rs7787362

The sections below explain how your genotype at rs7787362 in the ELN gene is commonly interpreted in relation to stretch mark risk and what practical steps you can take. These summaries are general and written to help you understand tendencies, not to diagnose or treat any condition.

Two effect alleles — TT

Having the TT genotype means you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with an increased genetic risk for stretch marks due to reduced elastin production or function. Your skin may be less resilient during rapid stretching events such as pregnancy, growth spurts, or significant weight change, and you may be more likely to develop stretch marks under those circumstances.

Practical steps

  • Prioritize a diet high in vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, protein, and omega-3s.
  • Consider daily collagen peptide supplementation and topical or oral hyaluronic acid if appropriate for you.
  • Moisturize target areas twice daily, use sun protection, and manage weight changes gradually.
  • Discuss targeted dermatology options early if concerned about existing or new stretch marks.
One effect allele — CT

With the CT genotype you carry one copy of the effect allele, which is associated with a moderate increase in risk for developing stretch marks compared to people without the effect allele. Elastin production may be somewhat lower than average, so your skin could be moderately less resilient during rapid stretching.

Practical steps

  • Focus on balanced nutrition with ample vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, protein, and omega-3s.
  • Maintain consistent hydration and regular moisturizing of areas prone to stretch marks.
  • Avoid rapid weight fluctuations and use sun protection to preserve skin quality.
  • Consider collagen supplements or topical products to support skin hydration and elasticity if desired.
No effect alleles — CC

The CC genotype indicates two copies of the non-effect allele and is associated with typical elastin function and a standard genetic predisposition for stretch marks. Your ELN gene is expected to produce elastin at typical levels, giving your skin normal resilience when stretched.

Practical steps

  • Continue general skin-supporting practices: nutrient-rich diet, hydration, regular moisturizing, and sun protection.
  • Manage weight changes gradually and incorporate strength training to support skin and muscle tone.
  • If stretch marks occur, lifestyle and topical or professional dermatologic options remain effective strategies.

When to Talk with a Healthcare Provider

If you notice rapid or severe changes in your skin, extensive stretch marks appearing suddenly, or other concerning skin symptoms, consult your healthcare provider or a dermatologist. Also discuss supplements, pregnancy planning, or medical treatments with your clinician to ensure recommendations fit your overall health and medications.

Important Disclaimer

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions only. This content is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medical decisions, starting supplements, or beginning new treatments. Genetic results are one piece of health information and should be considered together with personal medical history, family history, and clinical evaluation.