Stretch marks are the result of sudden shrinkage or stretch of skin. These marks appear when the skin tries to heal from this rupture. Stretch marks are also called striae sometimes. Most people develop these bands on their skin surface due to sudden weight gain.
Pregnancy is one such period when most women get stretch marks on their belly, thighs and arms, legs, or even breasts. The quick weight gain damages the tissues supporting our skin’s elasticity. Even men get a lot of stretch marks during puberty, all thanks to hormonal changes and body growth. Males regularly at the gym for muscle gain are also the ones suffering from this unwanted skin damage.
You must have tried many homemade remedies for stretch mark removal but the results are not necessarily favorable. Let’s discuss some tried and tested treatment options recommended by the top dermatologists around the world.
- Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is a vital ingredient of every skincare product. It contains powerful components that boost skin cell production. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Vitamin E slow down the aging process of your skin. This agent is well known for enhancing glow, and skin elasticity, removing scars, and reducing stretch marks. Applying vitamin E or including vitamin E in your diet will show you results within 3 to 4 months.
- Hyaluronic Acid:
It’s a natural component found in our eyes and joints which acts as a lubricant and cushioning purpose. This component is frequently used in cosmetic products as it restores skin against injuries, swellings, and inflammation. Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in our skin but UV rays, pollution, and aging affect its formation. Hyaluronic acid supplements retain moisture in your skin. It’s best known for smooth and glowing skin. It reduces wrinkles, fine lines, stretch marks, and blemishes on your skin.
- Centella:
Centella is commonly known as Gotu Kola. It’s a medicinal plant used in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries for decades. This component is used for the treatment of dry skin. It gives you a speedy recovery against stretch marks, psoriasis, eczema, acne, and other sensitivities of the skin. The antioxidant properties of this herb protect skin from free radicals and boost the healing of skin naturally. It improves blood circulation which helps to supply necessary nutrients to your skin for regenerating new cells.
- Retin-A:
Tretinoin or Retin A is a derivative of vitamin A. Often called a retinoid, this component is ruling the anti-aging and skincare industry. Retin A is included in the stretch mark creams or lotions for its improvement score in skin cell regeneration. It exfoliates the skin surface and allows the new skin to get all the nutrients and required moisture available. It enhances collagen formation which is a vital component of our skin. Retinoids are also recommended by dermatologists for people suffering from frequent acne breakouts. This reduces the dark spots and sunspots at a noticeable rate.
- Laser and Light Therapy
Laser and light therapy are other popular methods of treating deep stretch marks. Light therapy works on the upper layer of the epidermis only. It’s a non-invasive, painless, and relaxing method of stretch mark removal. Whereas, Laser therapy is done with precision and enters deep down the epidermis to the root cause of the skin condition. These therapies are also performed for treating acne and cellulite. These therapies are gaining popularity for the fast recovery rate of the skin. The method is anyway expensive and requires time to time visitations for the touch-ups.
- Plastic Surgery:
Thigh lift and tummy tuck are the most famous plastic surgeries for removing stretch marks. These procedures are performed on the stretch marks below your belly button and the thigh area where your stretch marks are most visible. This procedure is performed by a professional only. Here, the skin with stretch marks is removed completely and the skin is pulled from the surroundings to fill the gap. This method is also applied for removing stretch marks from the breast. In this process, the damaged skin or the damaged tissues are removed completely.
- Microdermabrasion:
Microdermabrasion is a procedure used for the renewal of skin tone and texture. It is a minimally invasive procedure used for improving the appearance of skin against conditions like acne scars, sun damage, wrinkles, dark spots, and stretch marks. The procedure is done with the help of a special applicator with an abrasive surface. This applicator removes all the damaged upper layer of the skin and brings out the new clear skin underneath.
- Microneedling:
It’s an invasive cosmetic procedure used to induce collagen production in your skin. The procedure is done by a professional with a derma roller. This instrument is loaded with numerous fine needles that prick the skin. The procedure results in finer, clearer, and young-looking skin. Microneedling is also common for treating acne scars, sunspots, wounds, and aging signs.
- Use Proper Sun Protection:
Stretch marks are more likely to get darker with the effect of UV rays. These harmful rays slow down the natural healing process of our skin. It ruptures our skin tissues and reduces collagen production. The sun’s rays make your skin dry, dull, and damaged. A sun protection cream is a must for people suffering from any skin condition like acne, stretch marks, cellulite, eczema, psoriasis, etc. Always cover your skin with sunscreen even inside your home. Use proper masks, scarves, and covered clothes to protect your skin from sun damage.
- Follow A Healthy Lifestyle:
Like any other organ, the skin is an important organ of our body. It represents us to the world. It’s our supreme responsibility to take good care of our body and skin. Follow a healthy diet with good eight-hour sleep. Work out regularly for improved blood circulation, removal of toxins, and improved mental health. If you are healthy internally, your skin will reflect the same externally.
These treatments must not be performed at home without any professional experience. Always consult your dermatologist before starting oral or topical treatment for any type of skin condition.