What Exactly is a Stretch Mark?
Stretch marks are a type of scar that forms when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly. This rapid change causes the collagen and elastin fibers, which support the skin, to break. As the skin heals, stretch marks may develop.They’re not always avoidable, and factors like fluctuating hormone levels and genetic predisposition can increase your risk of developing them. Common times for stretch marks to appear include:
Growth spurts during puberty
Pregnancy
Rapid weight loss or gain
Intense weight training leading to rapid muscle growth
Prolonged use of corticosteroids
Conditions like Cushing’s disease or Marfan syndrome
Initially, stretch marks may appear red, purple, pink, reddish-brown, or dark brown, depending on your skin tone. They might feel slightly raised and itchy. Over time, their color fades, and they become less noticeable, often feeling like a slight depression in the skin.
What Can Get Rid of Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are permanent, but their appearance can be minimized with treatment. Here’s what you should know about different methods:**1. Stretch Mark Creams, Lotions, and Gels: While no single product works universally, certain approaches may help:
Early Application:
These products are most effective on early stretch marks. They may have limited effect on mature ones.
Regular Use:
Consistency is key. Apply the product daily and be patient, as results take weeks to appear.
Massage:
Gently massaging the product into your skin can improve its effectiveness.
Home Remedies: Popular home remedies like almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E have not been shown to be effective in reducing stretch marks in studies.**3. Tanning and Self-Tanners:
Tanning:
Tanning doesn’t get rid of stretch marks and can actually make them more noticeable because they don’t tan.
Self-Tanners:
Self-tanners can help camouflage stretch marks temporarily but do not eliminate them.
Prescription Medicines: Two ingredients have shown promise in studies:
Hyaluronic Acid:
Applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks can make them less noticeable.
Tretinoin:
This retinoid can improve the appearance of early stretch marks. It requires a prescription and may cause irritation in some users.
Dermatological Procedures: Dermatologists offer several procedures to reduce the appearance of stretch marks:
Chemical Peel
Laser Therapy
Microdermabrasion
Radiofrequency
Ultrasound
These procedures can be effective, but they come with potential side effects like redness and swelling. Often, a combination of treatments yields the best results.
Can Anything Prevent Stretch Marks?
Preventing stretch marks is challenging, and many commonly recommended remedies do not work as intended. Studies have shown that products containing ingredients like centella or hyaluronic acid may be more effective. However, results can vary.
When to Seek a Dermatologist’s Expertise
If over-the-counter treatments are not giving you the results you want, consulting a board-certified dermatologist may be worthwhile. Dermatologists can provide personalized advice and offer advanced treatments that may be more effective.
Stretch marks are a common and natural part of many people’s lives, especially during periods of rapid change. While they are permanent, various treatments and strategies can help reduce their visibility. References
1. Hague A and Bayat A. “Therapeutic targets in the management of striae distensae: A systematic review.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017;77(3):559-68.
2. Stier MF and Hirsch RJ. “Rejuvenation of scars and striae.” In: Hirsch RJ, et al. Aesthetic rejuvenation. McGraw Hill Medical, China, 2009:224-9.
3. Ud‐Din S, McGeorge D, et al. “Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2016; 30(2): 211–22.
