Stretch marks, those often mysterious scars that seem to materialize suddenly, are a frequent concern for many.
Whether they surface during puberty, pregnancy, weight changes, or for other reasons, the longing to eliminate them entirely remains a persistent thought for those affected.
In this blog, we explore the possibility of achieving total removal of stretch marks and examine the different factors and treatments associated with this enduring quandary.
What are Stretch Marks?
The initial stage in addressing any issue is acknowledging its existence. Stretch marks represent a form of scarring that develops on the skin due to a reduction in collagen or elasticity.
Typically, when the skin undergoes stretching in its upper layer, such as during pregnancy or weight gain, its elasticity diminishes, leading to the formation of cracks known as stretch marks.
These marks come in various types, each with its own characteristics and causes.
For what reason is that?
Stretch marks, like numerous other issues, stem from various hormonal manipulations. Primarily, they result from either skin stretching or a decline in elasticity.
Several factors can contribute to these causes, including genetic predisposition, skin stress levels, and cortisol hormone levels in the body.
Cortisol, produced by the adrenal gland, weakens collagen fibers, diminishing the skin’s firmness and smoothness.
Other factors contributing to stretch marks include:
- Higher susceptibility in females
- Family history of stretch marks
- Occurrence during or after pregnancy
- Rapid weight gain or loss
- Use of corticosteroids
- Breast augmentation surgery
- Presence of conditions like Cushing syndrome or Marfan syndrome
Complete removal of stretch marks is not feasible due to their gradual formation process. Like any scar, they cannot be eradicated quickly.
However, various treatments can significantly reduce their visibility over time.
This indicates that while complete removal may not be achievable, fading them is possible through appropriate measures. Let’s explore some of these treatments.
1) Stretch marks cream, lotion, gel
If you start using the right cream/lotion/gel (which is suitable for your skin) from the time the stretch marks or stretch marks start appearing on the skin, the marks will begin to diminish within a few weeks of use. But must be massaged gently as per instructions and time.
2) Hyaluronic acid
This ingredient works great in a skincare routine! If applied to early stretch marks on the face or neck area, hyaluronic acid works very well and the scars are much less visible.
3) Tretinoin
It is a retinoid, applied from an early stage can prevent stretch marks. One study found that people who used tretinoin once every night for about 24 weeks had better results in reducing scarring.
4) Olive Oil and Argan Oil
Massage a few drops of argan oil mixed with olive oil to get rid of stitch marks on the abdomen, lower abdomen, breast area after baby delivery.
Argan oil’s moisturizing properties reduce skin dryness. And when it is mixed with olive oil and applied on the body, it works very well in removing stretch marks.
Also using bio oil, almond oil, cocoa butter is very beneficial in many cases.
Will seeing a dermatologist lead to better results in treating stretch marks?
While consulting a dermatologist may provide access to more advanced treatments, it’s important to understand that the process of addressing stretch marks is not instantaneous.
Once they become permanent, it takes time to diminish them significantly. Dermatologists employ various advanced technologies to treat stretch marks effectively over several sessions.
These may included,
- Chemical peel
- Laser therapy
- Microdermabrasion
- Radiofrequency
- Cosmetic surgery
It’s essential to recognize that eliminating stretch marks overnight is not feasible without advanced intervention.
However, maintaining proper moisturization, using specialized creams or oils designed to reduce stretch marks, and cultivating confidence in one’s body are all crucial aspects of managing stretch marks.
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Writer:
Rupsana Hasan
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE