Stretch marks don’t cause pain nor are they harmful to one’s health. Still, some people don’t like the way they make their skin look. Is it possible to eliminate these narrow bands? In this article, we’ll talk about ways how to remove stretch marks.
Why Do Stretch Marks Occur?
Before we discuss some tips on how to remove stretch marks, let’s first understand why they appear.
First, note that stretch marks are actually scars. They develop when the skin shrinks or stretches quickly, which causes the collagen and elastin to rupture. As the skin heals, the scars (stretch marks) appear.
You are more likely to have stretch marks during:
- Growth spurts during puberty
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight gain or loss
- Rapid muscle gain, perhaps due to training
Some diseases, like Cushing’s syndrome, and long-term use of medicines, such as topical corticosteroids, may also predispose a person to developing stretch marks. Family history also seems to play a role.
Initially, the scars feel raised, with appearance that varies depending on the skin color. Later, however, they become slightly depressed scars.
How To Remove Stretch Marks
Now that we have a better understanding of why stretch marks appear, let’s talk about the safe ways to remove these scars. Below are some of the treatments that dermatologists may recommend:
1. Retinoids and Hyaluronic Acid
Perhaps, the most convenient way to remove stretch marks is through the application of retinoid creams, which are a derivative of vitamin A.
One example, Tretinoin, helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks by rebuilding the collagen in the skin.
Reminders:
- Never use retinoids if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor approves it. The medicine might affect the baby.
- In most cases, retinoid creams work only on “young” scars (a few months old).
- It might take weeks before the product works.
If retinoids don’t suit your condition, your dermatologist might recommend hyaluronic acid. Some studies indicate that it can make stretch marks less noticeable.
