Treatment FAQ

what is the treatment for stretch marks

by Lavinia Vandervort Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Stretch marks are a form of scarring that appear after your skin quickly stretches or shrinks. They often happen due to pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss and bodybuilding. Treatment options include laser skin resurfacing, dermabrasion, microneedling and retinol creams.May 4, 2022

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[10 Natural Remedies]

  1. Argan Oil. Argan oil has vitamin E in an impressive amount. ...
  2. Lemon Juice. Lemon juice functions as a natural bleaching agent. ...
  3. Egg White. Egg white is high in proteins and amino acids. ...
  4. Potato Juice. This veggie is full of starch and other skin-lightening enzymes. ...
  5. Olive Oil. ...
  6. Sugar. ...
  7. Castor Oil. ...
  8. Aloe Vera Gel. ...
  9. Apricots. ...
  10. Black Tea. ...

What is the best natural remedy for stretch marks?

  • SUGAR- Mix some sugar with lemon juice, almond/coconut or any other body oil. ...
  • VITAMIN A- Eat food enriched with Vit A on a regular basis to avoid stretch marks. ...
  • ALOE VERA- Scoop out some fresh aloe vera gel and apply on the marks directly. ...
  • COCONUT OIL- Buy 100% pure virgin coconut oil. ...
  • MEDICAL ASSISTANCE- As a matter of fact, stretch marks don’t act

How do I permanently get rid of stretch marks?

Method 1 Method 1 of 3: Using Topical Treatments Download Article

  1. Apply shea butter. One option that some people have luck with is shea butter. ...
  2. Use coconut oil. Moisturizers or lotions with a coconut oil base are excellent for hydrating skin and reducing stretch marks.
  3. Try retinoic acid cream. ...
  4. Try a combination of glycolic acid and ascorbic acid. ...
  5. Use a chemical peel containing trichloroacetic acid. ...

More items...

How to improve stretch marks?

Treatments for stretch marks

  • Retin-A. There is little evidence to confirm that tretinoin (retinoic acid) works, a cream containing 0.1 percent tretinoin cream was shown to help diminish early stretch marks in one early ...
  • Laser or light therapy. ...
  • Platelet-rich plasma with ultrasound. ...
  • Plastic surgery. ...

How to cure stretch mark?

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How do I permanently get rid of stretch marks?

Cosmetic surgery. If other treatments are unsuccessful, cosmetic surgery is an option. This expensive, yet effective, option can permanently remove white stretch marks from your body. However, it's important to understand that surgery can leave scars of its own.

Can Stretch Mark get removed?

What can get rid of stretch marks? Like any scar, stretch marks are permanent, but treatment may make them less noticeable. Treatment can also help alleviate the itch. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before treating stretch marks.

What is the fastest way to get rid of stretch marks?

Makeup (concealing): Using makeup is one of the easiest and fastest options to hide stretch marks. ... Creams, gels, or lotions: There are many of these on the market, and manufacturers frequently claim that they can remove stretch marks. ... Massage: ... Topical creams: ... Microdermabrasion: ... Microneedling: ... Laser treatment:

How do celebrities remove stretch marks?

If you've ever wondered why celebs don't have stretch marks, the big secret is lasers and NanaoFractional RF. Stretch marks are formed in the middle layer of the skin, called the dermis, which is the area that determines the shape of the skin.

Which cream is best for stretch marks?

Top 5 Stretch Marks Removal CreamsVigini 100% Natural Actives Stretch Marks Scars Removal Cream Oil. BUY NOW- INR 389/- ... Volamena Body Cream for Stretch Marks & Scars. BUY NOW - INR 449/- ... Sirona stretch marks Body Butter. BUY NOW - INR 499/- ... Sanfe Stretch Mark Oil. ... Mom & World Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks.

Can Vaseline remove stretch marks?

"Vaseline works to lock moisture and help reduce dryness of the skin," she explains. As such, it can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and keep the skin on the belly, breast, and hips looking and feeling healthy throughout pregnancy.

Does bio-oil remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks are permanent in nature, and although Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is formulated to help improve their appearance, it can never remove them.

Do stretch mark creams work?

According to a variety of studies, stretch mark cream has very little proven effectiveness. It might help slightly reduce the appearance of stretch marks, but none have been scientifically proven to completely remove the marks.

What is the best treatment for stretch marks?

Laser therapy, needling, and microdermabrasion are three clinical treatments for stretch marks. Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the skin in a way that at-home remedies cannot. Research has shown that. Trusted Source. microdermabrasion improved the appearance of stretch marks.

How to get rid of red stretch marks?

Applying virgin coconut oil to your stretch marks each day might take away some of their red appearance . Unless you’re allergic to coconuts, this oil is considered safe.

How to keep stretch marks from fading?

By keeping your skin hydrated, you can help keep the elastin that your skin needs to keep from scarring. Using topical creams such as coconut oil will keep your skin moisturized and make stretch marks less likely. Even without treatment, almost all stretch marks will fade over time.

What is the strongest predictor of stretch marks?

There are common misconceptions about stretch marks and who gets them. The truth is that genetics are the strongest predictor of stretch marks.

How to get rid of sand on skin?

Rubbing a sugar scrub on the skin will exfoliate the area. To do this: Mix one cup sugar with 1/4 cup of a softening agent, like almond oil or coconut oil, before mixing to the consistency of wet beach sand. Add some lemon juice.

What is the most common stretch mark?

Pregnancy and puberty are the two most common times in life to get stretch marks. At first, a stretch mark will appear as a thin red or purple line on your skin that takes on a different texture than the surrounding skin layer.

What is the treatment for collagen?

Needling, which is a relatively new treatment in which collagen is injected underneath the top layer of your skin, may also be effective.

How to improve stretch marks?

Laser and light therapy are proven ways to significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks, although they are very expensive.

Why do some people get stretch marks?

Some people may simply be more prone to getting stretch marks due to genetics or certain hormone levels . A study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Why do stretch marks fade?

Stretch marks are lines or bands caused by stretching of the skin’s connective tissue. Stretch marks fade to a white or silver color over time. Although they are not physically painful, they can be disfiguring in severe cases. When the middle layer of skin stretches too quickly, some of its collagen fibers can break.

What happens when the middle layer of the skin stretches too quickly?

When the middle layer of skin stretches too quickly, some of its collagen fibers can break.

How to get rid of itch on belly after bath?

Using a moisturizer right after bathing, while skin is still damp, can help products penetrate better and keep skin soft and supple. Pregnant women may find that the rapidly expanding skin on the belly tends to itch, and moisturizers often provide some relief.

What kind of surgeon can perform skin surgery?

A plastic, cosmetic, or skin surgeon will carry out these procedures.

Does tretinoin cream help stretch marks?

There is little evidence to confirm#N#Trusted Source#N#that tretinoin (retinoic acid) works, a cream containing 0.1 percent tretino in cream was shown to help diminish early stretch marks in one early study.

What is the FDA approved laser for stretch marks?

If you're looking for in-office treatments that work, "the ICON 1540 Fractional Laser is the only FDA-approved laser for the treatment of stretch marks," says Dr. Akhavan. Patients have been shown to have a 50 to 75 percent improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks after a few sessions, he adds.

What causes stretch marks?

According to dermatologist Arash Akhavan, MD, stretch marks are caused when there's a period of rapid growth in your body (like growth spurts, pregnancy, weight gain, or increased muscle mass) that suddenly stretches the skin, and, in turn, causes the collagen bundles under your skin to tear away from each other. So when the skin returns to its usual state (i.e., when it stops growing), "it can look wrinkled and lined, because it’s not supported by the same collagen structure underneath,” he says.

What is Kim Kardashian's favorite stretch mark fighter?

If retinol sounds too next-level, try a gentle, allover body oil like this one (which, fun fact, also happens to be Kim Kardashian's favorite stretch-mark fighter ). It's fast-absorbing and filled with vitamins A and E to soften skin and give you a Kim K glow, all of which can help temporarily reduce the look of your marks.

How long does it take for stretch marks to show?

The only drawbacks: It takes at least four months to see results, and it can be irritating if used incorrectly, so check in with your derm first. Regardless of which stretch-mark treatment you choose, results will not be immediate, so you need to be patient, says Dr. Akhavan.

How much improvement does a laser stretch mark laser have?

Patients have been shown to have a 50 to 75 percent improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks after a few sessions, he adds. The laser delivers pulses of energy into your skin—don't worry, you're numbed first—tricking your cells into thinking they're injured, says Dr. Akhavan.

Does exfoliating make stretch marks disappear?

Here's the thing: Physical exfoliation isn't going to make your stretch marks disappear (sry). But what it can do is make your retinol creams work better, thanks to the fact that it helps loosen and lift dead skin cells that might be getting in the way of the formula.

Does retinol cream help stretch marks?

When coupled with the collagen-stimulating effects of retinol, vitamin-packed ingredients can help hydrate, soften, and even brighten your skin (a win-win when you're looking to get rid of stretch marks).

How to prevent stretch marks?

How can I prevent stretch marks? There’s no way to prevent stretch marks completely, even if you regularly use lotions and creams. However, keeping your weight in a healthy range by eating well and exercising regularly can help to prevent stretch marks caused by sudden weight gain or loss.

How to get rid of stretch marks on face?

There are several ways to improve the appearance of stretch marks: 1 Tretinoin cream (Retin-A, Renova) works by restoring collagen, a fibrous protein that helps give your skin elasticity. It’s best to use this cream on recent stretch marks that are red or pink. This cream may cause skin irritation. If you’re pregnant, you shouldn’t use tretinoin cream. 2 Pulsed dye laser therapy encourages the growth of collagen and elastin. It’s best to use this therapy on newer stretch marks. Darker-skinned individuals may experience skin discoloration. 3 Fractional photothermolysis is similar to pulsed dye laser therapy in that it uses a laser. However, it works by targeting smaller areas of your skin, causing less skin damage. 4 Microdermabrasion involves polishing the skin with tiny crystals to reveal new skin that’s under the more elastic stretch marks. Microdermabrasion can improve the appearance of older stretch marks. 5 The excimer laser stimulates skin color (melanin) production so that stretch marks match the surrounding skin more closely.

What causes stretch marks on the body?

Cushing’s syndrome, Marfan’s syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and other adrenal gland disorders can cause stretch marks by increasing the amount of cortisone in your body.

What does it mean when you have stretch marks on your skin?

Stretch marks typically appear as bands of parallel lines on your skin. These lines are a different color and texture than your normal skin, and they range from purple to bright pink to light gray. When you touch stretch marks with your fingers, you might feel a slight ridge or indentation on your skin. Sometimes, stretch marks feel itchy or sore.

What are the risks of getting stretch marks?

The following put you at greater risk for developing stretch marks: being a woman. being a white person (having pale skin) having a family history of stretch marks. being pregnant. having a history of delivering large babies or twins. being overweight. having dramatic weight loss or gain.

When do stretch marks appear?

These lines commonly appear during or after pregnancy or after a sudden change in your weight. They also tend to occur in adolescents who are rapidly growing. Stretch marks aren’t dangerous, and they often disappear over time.

Can stretch marks be caused by pregnancy?

However, having too much of this hormone can make your skin lose its elasticity. Stretch marks are common in certain circumstances: Many women experience stretch marks during pregnancy as the skin stretches in numerous ways to make room for the developing baby. This continual tugging and stretching can cause stretch marks.

How does laser treatment for stretch marks work?

This laser targets the redness in newly formed stretch marks, directing pulses of light energy at the blood vessels to alleviate the red pigmentation , explains Dr. Frank. Your skin may feel warm during the procedure, but the experience is otherwise fairly quick and easy. “It’s a good option for reducing redness and slowing the scars’ progression when they’re new,” says Dr. Frank, though it won’t work on scars that have faded. How many laser sessions you’ll need and the final cost will vary, based on the area treated. Generally speaking, plan on anywhere from three to five sessions, spaced one month apart, starting at around $500 apiece.

How does microneedling help with stretch marks?

Just as facial microneedling helps stimulate collagen production to minimize wrinkles, those same benefits can translate into less noticeable stretch marks on the body. Tiny needles are rolled along the stretch marks to create microscopic injuries, triggering a wound-healing response that results in increased collagen and possibly elastin as well, says Dr. Lain. Besides some redness for a few days afterward, there’s no downtime, and any improvement you do achieve will be permanent. That being said, you’ll need anywhere from 3 to 10 treatments, ranging from $200 to $1,500 each. It’s also worth noting that microneedling can improve the texture of the skin but won’t eliminate any redness or pigment from stretch marks.

Why are stretch scars called stretch scars?

“They really should be called stretch scars, because that’s what they are. They’re scars that occur when collagen and elastin in the dermis are damaged, due to rapid stretching of the skin, ” he explains.

Can stretch marks be removed?

As far as stretch mark treatments go, the hard truth of the matter is that there’s really no way of eliminating them entirely. “Treatments can make stretch marks fade but will not completely remove them,” notes Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. That being said, certain solutions are more ...

Is it safe to use a laser for stretch marks?

According to Dr. Frank, both of these lasers are generally safe and effective to use on all skin tones to treat stretch marks. However, it’s important (as always) to choose a reputable, licensed provider, since there is an increased risk of burning and hyperpigmentation when lasering darker skin.

Is fractional resurfacing laser painful?

More specifically, these lasers are ideal for targeting older and wider marks, helping to both narrow them and improve the overall texture of the skin. Fractional resurfacing laser treatments are painful, so your provider will likely use a topical anesthetic to numb the area.

Is stretch mark a common condition?

There’s no denying that stretch marks (technical name: striae) can be an irksome and unsightly condition to deal with, but take heart in knowing that it’s an extremely common issue. Even supermodels aren’t immune—remember when Chrissy Teigen caused a social media frenzy after posting a video of hers ?

What is the best medicine for stretch marks?

Prescription medicine you apply to your skin: In studies, two ingredients seem to offer some relief: Hyaluronic acid. Tretinoin. In two large studies, applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks made the stretch marks less noticeable. Tretinoin is a retinoid, which may also make early stretch marks less noticeable.

What exactly is a stretch mark?

Stretch marks fade with time; however, treatment may make them less noticeable more quickly.

How long does it take for stretch marks to go away after a procedure?

It’s common to have some redness and swelling after a procedure. The redness and swelling tend to disappear in a few hours or days. A dermatologist can tell you if any of these treatments would be suitable for you, given your health, age, and how long you’ve had the stretch marks.

What does it feel like to have a stretch mark on your finger?

Early stretch marks may feel slightly raised and can be itchy. In time, the color fades and the narrow bands sink beneath your skin. If you run your finger over a mature stretch mark, you often feel a slight depression.

Can you buy stretch marks?

Stretch mark treatments that you can buy at a store or online can be expensive . If you find yourself spending a lot of time and money without getting any results, seeing a board-certified dermatologist can be helpful. The in-office procedures have proven more effective than the creams, lotions, and gels.

Does almond oil help with stretch marks?

Home remedies: In studies, popular home remedies have not worked. Researchers found that none of the stretch marks faded when people massaged almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, or vitamin E into their stretch marks.

Is a stretch mark permanent?

Like any scar, stretch marks are permanent, but treatment may make them less noticeable. Treatment can also help alleviate the itch.

How do I permanently get rid of stretch marks?

Stretch marks are usually considered a cosmetic issue. Rarely, they can be extensive where they may tear easily in an accident. Like any scar, stretch marks are permanent and may fade with time. Because stretch marks are caused due to a tear deep inside your skin, there is no absolute cure for it. However, some treatments may make them less noticeable. Some treatments can help you with the itch. There is no single treatment that works for everyone and some treatments don’t work at all.

What is the best cream for stretch marks?

Moisturizers: Hyaluronic acid -based cream is most often prescribed. If applied in the early stage of stretch marks, it may make the stretch marks less noticeable.

What do stretch marks mean?

Home remedies and doctor prescribed treatments may help diminish the appearance of stretch marks.

Why do stretch marks appear on my face?

Collagen is a protein underneath your skin that makes it more elastic and supports your skin. Your skin tries to heal any abrupt change or tear in your skin collagen , and in that process, stretch marks may appear on your skin.

How long does it take for stretch marks to fade?

It may take more than one to four months to correct the pigmentation of your stretch marks. Microdermabrasion: Tiny crystals or microneedles are used to rub off the upper layer of your skin to help fade new stretch marks. If combined with skin-peeling treatment, it may give better results. Chemical peels: Burning of the top layer ...

How does radio frequency help stretch marks?

Radiofrequency: Radio wave energy creates heat and triggers your body to produce more collagen. It is found to be safe and can improve the appearance of stretch marks.

What is the best treatment for white marks?

Fractional CO2 laser therapy: Old white marks may smooth out with this therapy. It may be more effective than topical creams such as glycolic acid and tretinoin.

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Diagnosis

  • Stretch marks don't usually need to be diagnosed. Your doctor might examine your skin and review your medical history. If your doctor suspects an increase in your level of the hormone cortisol, you might be offered additional tests.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Treatment

  • Stretch marks don't require treatment. They are harmless and often fade over time. Treatment can make them fade, but they may never completely disappear. The following treatments are among those available to help improve the appearance and texture of stretch marks. None has been proved to be more consistently successful than the others. 1. Retinoid cream. Derived from vita…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Alternative Medicine

  • The idea that you can prevent or treat stretch marks by rubbing creams, oils or lotions on your skin is not supported by strong evidence. If you're pregnant, check with your doctor before using alternative products that claim to treat or prevent stretch marks.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • If you seek treatment for stretch marks, prepare for your appointment by listing some basic questions to ask your doctor, including: 1. What is likely causing my stretch marks? 2. Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms? 3. What are my treatment options and the pros and cons for each? 4. What results can I expect? Your doctor is li…
See more on mayoclinic.org

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