Understanding and Managing Stretch Marks
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Stretch marks are narrow bands that appear on the skin due to sudden growth or weight changes. They are a common concern for many individuals. Whilst they don’t usually require a formal diagnosis, managing stretch marks and understanding their causes and available treatments is crucial for those looking to manage or reduce their appearance.
Diagnosis and Causes of Stretch Marks
Healthcare providers may examine the skin and review medical history to understand the context of stretch marks. Common causes include rapid growth during puberty, pregnancy, quick weight changes, and the use of certain steroid creams or tablets. Genetic factors may also contribute, and in rare cases, conditions like Cushing’s syndrome can lead to stretch marks. However, the use of skin whitening creams commonly found in Africa, causes some of the worst stretchmarks that I have ever seen in my practice. These creams thin the skin to the point where it just splits, leaving behind stretchmarks that are wide (sometimes over an inch wide) and deep.
Stretch Marks Treatment Options
Stretch marks are generally harmless and for the lucky ones tend to fade over time. however, various treatments can help improve their appearance. It’s essential to note that complete removal is unlikely. Some available treatments include:
- Retinoid Creams: Derived from vitamin A, retinoids like tretinoin can be applied to new stretch marks, helping rebuild collagen and making them blend with normal skin. However, caution is advised during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby.
- Light and Laser Therapies: These treatments stimulate collagen growth or promote elasticity, offering potential benefits in improving the appearance of stretch marks.
- Microneedling: Involving a handheld device with tiny needles, microneedling stimulates collagen growth with less risk of skin colour changes compared to laser therapy. It is often preferred for individuals with darker skin. Our DermaEraze stretch marks treatment is a form of microneedling and gives visible results in 4 weeks.
Choosing the right treatment involves considering factors such as the age of the stretch marks, skin type, convenience, and cost.
What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are essentially scars that develop when the skin undergoes rapid stretching or shrinking. Causing the rupture of collagen and elastin. They commonly appear during growth spurts, pregnancy, rapid weight changes, use of whitening creams and weight training.
Stretch Marks Prevention and Home Remedies
Preventing stretch marks entirely may not be guaranteed, but maintaining a healthy weight is a practical preventive measure. Home remedies like almond oil, cocoa butter, olive oil, or vitamin E have shown limited effectiveness. However, products containing centella or hyaluronic acid may offer some preventive benefits. However, it has always been my view that if they’re going to happen they will and no amount of oils, lotions and potions will prevent them.
When to Seek a Specialist’s Expertise
Over-the-counter treatments can be expensive, and if results are not evident, consulting an expert is advisable. In-office procedures, including chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling, are generally more effective than creams and lotions. A Specialist can assess the suitability of treatments based on an individual’s health, age, skin type and the duration of stretch marks. Dermaeraze Stretch Marks Treatment works on all skin types and on old stretchmarks. You can find frequently asked question about DermaEraze Stretchmarks treatment HERE.
Whilst complete elimination of stretch marks may be challenging, understanding the causes and available treatments can empower individuals to manage and reduce the visibility of these common skin concerns. Treatments like DermaEraze can offer consistent results. However, research is key so that you don’t spend your money on treatments and products that will simply not work. I offer a test patch so that my clients are 100% sure that DemaEraze will work for them before they commit to investing in their treatments. This level of transparency is a must in the industry.
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