White lines under skin. 6 Effective Treatments for White Stretch Marks: From Exfoliation to Surgery

05.09.202312.06.2023 by alexxlab

How do white stretch marks differ from red ones. What are the most effective ways to treat white stretch marks. Can white stretch marks be completely removed. Which treatment options are available for reducing the appearance of white stretch marks. How does laser therapy work for stretch mark removal. Is cosmetic surgery a viable option for eliminating stretch marks. What are the risks and benefits of various stretch mark treatments.

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Understanding White Stretch Marks: Causes and Characteristics

Stretch marks are a common skin concern that affects many individuals. These lines or streaks appear on the skin due to rapid weight gain or growth, essentially representing tears in the skin’s structure. While not indicative of any health issues, they can be a source of cosmetic concern for many.

Stretch marks typically begin as red or purple marks (striae rubra) and gradually fade to white or silver (striae alba) over time. This color change is a key indicator of the mark’s age and can influence treatment effectiveness.

Red vs. White Stretch Marks

Red stretch marks are newer and generally easier to treat. The reddish hue is due to the presence of functioning blood vessels under the skin, making these marks more responsive to various treatments. In contrast, white stretch marks are older and more challenging to address. As time passes, blood vessels narrow, making it more difficult to stimulate collagen production and achieve noticeable results.

Exfoliation: A Simple Yet Effective Approach

One of the most straightforward methods to treat white stretch marks is through regular exfoliation. This process removes dead skin cells from the body, including the stretch mark areas, promoting new skin growth.

Enhances the effectiveness of other treatments
Allows for better penetration of topical products
Stimulates blood flow to the area

How often should you exfoliate stretch marks? For optimal results, aim to exfoliate the affected areas 2-3 times a week. However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin and potentially worsen the appearance of stretch marks.

Topical Treatments: Over-the-Counter and Prescription Options

Topical creams and ointments offer a more affordable approach to reducing the appearance of white stretch marks. These products come in various formulations, with some available over-the-counter and others requiring a prescription.

Popular Ingredients in Stretch Mark Creams

Retinoids
Hyaluronic acid
Vitamin E
Cocoa butter
Centella asiatica

Are topical treatments effective for all types of stretch marks? While topical treatments can help lighten the tone of stretch marks and improve their overall appearance, they may not completely remove them. The effectiveness often depends on the age and severity of the stretch marks, as well as consistent application over time.

Microdermabrasion: Revealing Fresher, Younger-Looking Skin

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that targets the upper layer of skin (epidermis) to reduce the appearance of white stretch marks. This treatment works by stimulating the skin to tighten collagen and elastin fibers, promoting a smoother, more even skin texture.

The Microdermabrasion Process

Tiny exfoliating crystals are sprayed onto the affected area or a special-tipped wand is used
The crystals or wand gently removes dead skin from the epidermis
The process is repeated over several sessions for optimal results

What can you expect after a microdermabrasion treatment? Following the procedure, your skin may feel tight and dry, with some redness from the exfoliation. It typically takes about 24 hours for the skin to heal. While effective, it’s important to note that microdermabrasion may not completely remove stretch marks, especially in severe cases.

Microneedling: Stimulating Collagen Production for Smoother Skin

Microneedling is a procedure that targets the dermis, the middle layer of skin where stretch marks form. This treatment involves using tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing process and stimulating collagen and elastin production.

Benefits of Microneedling for Stretch Marks

Promotes skin regeneration
Improves skin texture and appearance
Particularly effective for patients with darker skin tones

How many microneedling sessions are needed to see results? To effectively treat stretch marks, multiple sessions are typically required over the course of several months. The exact number of treatments will depend on the severity of the stretch marks and individual skin response.

Laser Therapy: Advanced Technology for Stretch Mark Reduction

Laser therapy is a popular and effective treatment option for removing white stretch marks. This advanced procedure uses focused light energy to penetrate the skin, triggering regeneration and promoting faster healing of the tissues around the stretch marks.

How Laser Therapy Works on Stretch Marks

Lasers penetrate the skin’s layers
Stimulates melanin production in the affected area
Activates pigment cells in the skin
Helps stretch marks blend with normal skin tone

What types of lasers are used for stretch mark treatment? There are several types of laser therapies available for treating stretch marks and other skin issues. Some common options include fractional laser therapy, pulsed dye lasers, and CO2 lasers. The best choice will depend on your skin type, the age of your stretch marks, and other individual factors.

Cosmetic Surgery: A Permanent Solution for Severe Cases

When other treatments prove unsuccessful, cosmetic surgery can be considered as a more drastic but permanent solution for removing white stretch marks. While effective, it’s important to understand that this option comes with its own set of risks and considerations.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck, medically known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that not only removes stretch marks but also addresses excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. This surgery can provide a flatter, firmer appearance to the abdomen and effectively eliminate stretch marks in the treated area.

What are the risks associated with cosmetic surgery for stretch marks? As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks to consider, including:

Infection
Bleeding
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Scarring
Uneven results
Extended recovery time

Is cosmetic surgery the right choice for everyone with stretch marks? Cosmetic surgery should be considered a last resort for treating stretch marks. It’s typically recommended only for cases where stretch marks are severe and other less invasive treatments have not produced satisfactory results. Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for this procedure.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

While each of the aforementioned treatments can be effective on its own, many dermatologists and skincare professionals recommend combining multiple approaches for optimal results. By targeting stretch marks from different angles, you may be able to achieve more significant improvement in their appearance.

Effective Treatment Combinations

Exfoliation + Topical treatments
Microdermabrasion + Laser therapy
Microneedling + Topical treatments
Laser therapy + Topical treatments

How do you determine the best treatment combination for your stretch marks? The most effective combination will depend on various factors, including the age and severity of your stretch marks, your skin type, and your budget. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can help you develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Preventing Future Stretch Marks

While treating existing stretch marks is important, preventing new ones from forming is equally crucial. By adopting certain lifestyle habits and skincare practices, you can reduce your risk of developing new stretch marks or exacerbating existing ones.

Tips for Stretch Mark Prevention

Maintain a healthy, stable weight
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
Use moisturizing creams or oils regularly
Exercise to improve skin elasticity
Avoid rapid weight gain or loss
Consider using preventive treatments during pregnancy or periods of growth

Can stretch marks be completely prevented? While it’s not always possible to prevent stretch marks entirely, especially during pregnancy or periods of rapid growth, these preventive measures can help minimize their occurrence and severity.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Stretch Marks

While stretch marks are a common and harmless skin condition, they can have a significant emotional impact on those who have them. It’s important to address not only the physical aspects of stretch marks but also the psychological effects they may have on an individual’s self-esteem and body image.

Coping Strategies for Stretch Mark-Related Stress

Practice self-acceptance and positive body image
Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
Focus on overall health and well-being rather than appearance alone
Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor if stretch marks are causing significant distress

How can society promote a healthier attitude towards stretch marks? Increasing representation of diverse body types and skin conditions in media and advertising can help normalize the presence of stretch marks. Education about the natural occurrence of stretch marks can also contribute to greater acceptance and reduced stigma.

The Future of Stretch Mark Treatment

As research in dermatology and skincare continues to advance, new and improved treatments for stretch marks are likely to emerge. Staying informed about the latest developments can help you make the best decisions for your skin health and appearance.

Emerging Technologies and Treatments

Stem cell therapy
Regenerative medicine approaches
Advanced laser technologies
Nanotechnology in skincare products

What role will personalized medicine play in future stretch mark treatments? As our understanding of genetics and individual skin characteristics improves, we may see more tailored approaches to treating stretch marks based on a person’s unique skin profile and needs.

In conclusion, while white stretch marks can be challenging to treat, there are numerous options available to help reduce their appearance and improve skin texture. From simple at-home treatments like exfoliation and topical creams to more advanced procedures such as laser therapy and cosmetic surgery, the choice of treatment should be based on individual factors and desired outcomes. By combining different approaches and maintaining good skincare habits, many people can achieve significant improvements in the appearance of their stretch marks. Remember, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

6 Ways to Get Rid of White Stretch Marks

Red vs. white stretch marks

Stretch marks are colored lines or streaks that appear on your skin from weight gain or growth. They’re essentially tears on the skin, but aren’t an indication of a health issue.

Stretch marks often begin as red or purple marks, and slowly fade to white or silver over time. The difference in color distinguishes how old the marks are. Though they may never disappear completely, treatment can lighten the color of your marks and shrink them. In other cases, stretch marks fade away on their own.

Newer, red-tinged stretch marks (striae rubra) are easier to treat. They begin red because blood vessels are present under the skin. The presence of functioning blood vessels allows red stretch marks to be more responsive to treatment.

White stretch marks (striae alba) are older and more difficult to treat. Over time, your blood vessels will narrow, making it hard to stimulate collagen production. Treatment results may not be as drastic compared to those of red stretch marks, but there are options available to help them fade more naturally and at a faster pace.

1. Exfoliate

A simple way to treat white stretch marks is through regular exfoliation. This removes excess dead skin from your body and new skin from your stretch marks.

Exfoliating alongside other treatment methods can also enhance your results. Removing dead skin from your stretch marks allows other skin treatments to penetrate more deeply and work faster.

2. Topical treatments

Topical creams and ointments are more affordable methods for reducing the appearance of white stretch marks. Some creams are available over-the-counter, while others are prescribed by a doctor.

Applied regularly, topical creams can lighten the tone of stretch marks but they may not completely remove them. Before using any topical treatment, discuss your risks with your doctor. Some creams can trigger an allergic reaction or may not be strong enough to treat your condition.

3. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a painless procedure to reduce the appearance of white stretch marks. This procedure targets the upper layer of skin (epidermis), and works by stimulating the skin to tighten collagen and elastin fibers.

In the procedure, tiny exfoliating crystals are sprayed onto the affected area or a special tipped wand is rubbed over the area. Using a wand-like device, the crystals are gently removed, taking with them dead skin from the epidermis layer. For effective results, microdermabrasion needs to be repeated over a period of time.

After the procedure, your skin may feel tight and dry. There may be some redness from the exfoliation. It typically takes 24 hours for your skin to heal. Though effective, this procedure isn’t guaranteed to fully remove stretch marks. The severity of your stretch marks will influence your results.

4. Microneedling

Microneedling targets the dermis, the middle layer of your skin where stretch marks form. Within this procedure, tiny needles are poked into your skin to trigger collagen production. Increased collagen and elastin promotes skin regeneration that can improve your skin’s appearance and reduce stretch marks.

To effectively treat stretch marks, you’ll need to participate in more than one treatment over a course of months. Microneedling has been shown to be an effective treatment for reducing stretch marks, specifically for patients with darker skin.

5. Laser therapy

Laser therapy is a common treatment option to remove white stretch marks. In the procedure, lasers penetrate the skin, triggering regeneration. This stimulates the tissues around your stretch marks to heal at a faster rate.

Laser therapy stimulates melanin production on the affected area, activating pigment cells in your skin. This causes your stretch marks to blend in with your normal skin tone. Though effective, laser therapy requires more than one session to notice results.

There are a number of different laser therapies used to treat stretch marks and other skin issues. Discuss your options with your dermatologist.

6. 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.

A tummy tuck, medically known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that not only removes stretch marks, but also removes excess skin and fat from your abdomen. This procedure gives the skin and abdomen a flatter and firmer look. However, a surgical procedure comes with a number of health risks. Before pursuing this treatment, discuss your options with your doctor.

Stretch marks are a very common skin issue. White stretch marks are older skin scars that are more difficult to treat than newer stretch marks. However, there are options available to reduce the appearance of your scars if you so choose.

Prior to pursuing treatment, understand there’s a possibility your stretch marks may not disappear completely. If you have questions or concerns about treatment or potential side effects, schedule a visit with a dermatologist.

White stretch marks: Treatments, causes, and more

Stretch marks of any color are common, and they do not pose any serious health concerns.

White stretch marks commonly occur on the thighs, stomach, breasts, and upper arms.

Some people may wish to treat white stretch marks for cosmetic reasons. It is possible to do this using professional treatments. In some cases, home remedies may also be effective.

In this article, we discuss white stretch marks and their causes. We also list the various treatments options.

Stretch marks are superficial tears in the skin. Some appear as red lines across the skin, while others may look white or silvery. The color of the marks indicates whether they occurred recently or are older.

In the beginning, stretch marks will appear on the skin as red or purple lesions. These are known as striae rubra.

Over time, these red marks will typically fade to white or silver (striae alba). Eventually, some stretch marks may disappear completely. Not all marks will vanish, however.

Red stretch marks are typically easier to treat. The red hue indicates the presence of blood vessels under the skin. These blood vessels may respond well to treatment.

Once the marks turn white, however, it suggests that the blood vessels have narrowed. Narrow blood vessels make successful treatment less likely.

Nonetheless, it may be possible to reduce the appearance of some white stretch marks using cosmetic treatments or home remedies.

Available treatments for stretch marks include prescription retinoid creams and dermatological procedures.

The sections below discuss these options in more detail.

Retinoid creams

Topical retinoid creams, which come from vitamin A, may help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

These creams tend to be most effective for red stretch marks. The effects may be less drastic on white stretch marks, or there may be no observable difference at all.

People who wish to try topical creams can ask their doctor about a retinoid called tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova, or Avita).

Tretinoin helps rebuild collagen, though it may cause skin irritation and may not be safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy uses powerful beams of light to trigger skin regeneration. Even if laser removal does not completely get rid of stretch marks, it can make them smoother and reduce their appearance.

According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, it may be necessary to have up to 20 sessions over several weeks in order to see a 20–60% improvement.

Learn more about how laser therapy can treat scars, including stretch marks, in this article.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive and painless procedure that involves the use of fine crystals and a wand-like device to exfoliate and remove the top layer of skin.

Some side effects of microdermabrasion include short-term swelling and sunburn-like sensations.

People will need several sessions before they see results, and even then, microdermabrasion may not fully heal all stretch marks. Results typically depend on the age and severity of the stretch marks.

Learn more about how microdermabrasion works in this article.

Microneedling

Microneedling uses tiny needles to puncture the skin. This prompts the skin to heal itself by producing new collagen.

Microneedling can treat stretch marks and minor scarring, as well as sun damage and wrinkles.

Several treatment sessions will be necessary to see results. Learn more about microneedling in this article.

Cosmetic surgery

If stretch marks on the abdomen are accompanied by loose, sagging skin, a surgical procedure called abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, may help.

The procedure will remove the excess skin that contains the stretch marks.

A tummy tuck is only suitable in certain situations and for certain people. It is not suitable for those who have stretch marks without excess skin, and it may not be suitable for people who smoke or those with obesity.

Home remedies may help in some cases of white stretch marks, but they are not usually as effective as professional stretch mark treatments.

Some options include:

Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells. Exfoliating before using other treatments, such as topical creams, may help them penetrate the skin more deeply and improve the treatment’s effectiveness.

Always ask a doctor or dermatologist if it is safe to exfoliate before or between cosmetic treatments, especially when using prescription creams.

Over-the-counter topical treatments

Many over-the-counter (OTC) creams and ointments aim to reduce the appearance of white stretch marks.

Some options include:

Collagen therapies. These are products that aim to stimulate collagen production.
Hydrating creams and oils. According to some, certain creams and oils may improve the skin’s elasticity and hydration. Examples of these include cocoa butter, vitamin E oil, olive oil, and coconut oil.
Skin cell growth creams. These topical treatments aim to stimulate cell growth and reproduction, and they include many creams marketed specifically for stretch marks.

Although some people may notice their stretch marks fade after using these products, others find no benefit.

It is important to note that there is a lack of evidence for many OTC topical remedies for stretch marks, and the American Academy of Dermatology suggest that these products have little effect on white stretch marks. That said, some may help reduce the appearance of red marks.

Although experts are unsure of whether or not they are effective, OTC topical treatments are also unlikely to be harmful unless a person has an allergy to them.

Makeup and self-tanner

Although neither makeup nor self-tanner can remove stretch marks, they can cover the affected areas and make the marks less noticeable.

Tanning using tanning beds does not improve stretch marks. In fact, it can make them more noticeable, as white stretch marks do not tan and will look more pronounced.

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches. They commonly develop when someone rapidly gains or loses weight. They are also common during pregnancy.

According to some research, around 50–90% of pregnant women report developing stretch marks.

Other conditions and situations where stretch marks occur include:

breast augmentation
Cushing’s syndrome, which is an endocrine gland disorder
muscle hypertrophy
obesity
topical corticosteroid use

Stretch marks are twice as common in women. They are also more likely to develop in those with a family history of stretch marks, and in people who smoke.

White stretch marks are a common occurrence. They are simply red stretch marks that have changed color over time.

Generally, white stretch marks are harder to treat than red ones. However, some treatment options may still be effective.

People who would like to know more about white stretch marks and the treatment options available to them can speak to their doctor or dermatologist.

how to remove stretch marks on the body

Stretch marks are like a flash drive that contains a history of weight gain for any reason and weight loss. White stripes become especially noticeable on a tanned body. And if you don’t like it, we’ll tell you how to erase them from memory.

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Sergey Barsukov, cosmetologist-dermatologist at the Romanov Health and Beauty Center: “Stretch marks or stretch marks on the body are a complex problem associated with hormonal imbalance and mechanical stretching of the skin. The classic example is pregnancy. This can also happen when you first gain a lot of weight, and then lose weight. Damaged skin at the level of the reticular layer of the dermis does not have time to recover, the “gap” is filled with connective tissue. This is how stretch marks appear. Paradoxically, these damages can be treated with other damages. To restore the normal structure of the dermis, you need to activate the regeneration processes in the desired area. This can be done by damaging the skin, but it needs to happen exactly at the level of the reticular layer of the dermis, where the problem is. A dermatologist-cosmetologist has several effective procedures in his arsenal that will help get rid of hated stretch marks on the body. I would recommend paying attention to the three most effective in my opinion.

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Ablation using a fractional CO2 laser

The method is effective, but quite traumatic, since fractional (point) vaporization (evaporation) of the skin occurs, including the epidermis, which performs a protective function. In this regard, you will have a long rehabilitation period, the appearance of redness and peeling at the site of laser exposure. Careful care is required (antibacterial and restorative agents) and avoidance of insolation (sunburn) due to the risk of hyperpigmentation.

Microneedle RF exposure technique

Another very effective method, which does not have the drawbacks of a CO2 laser in terms of intense damage to the epidermis. The rehabilitation period is not so long and more comfortable. The procedure is quite painful, but gives visible results immediately.

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (Ultraformer)

Relatively new technique for stretch marks. Perfectly renews the dermis, simultaneously giving the skin tone, elasticity, and also providing a powerful lipolytic effect. The procedure is almost painless, the rehabilitation period is practically absent, since there is no damage to the epidermis, which is undoubtedly a huge plus.

Home care

You can’t get rid of stretch marks on your own, but you can take preventive measures! For example, to improve microcirculation, it is recommended to massage and take a contrast shower regularly. You should also take dietary supplements to improve trophism and metabolism (vitamins, antioxidants, micro and macro elements). If the appearance of stretch marks is associated with hormonal disorders, then hormone replacement therapy is needed (this issue is resolved only with a doctor).

Anastasia Shestakova, dermatologist, cosmetologist, laser therapist, doctor of the Lazer Jazz clinic: “Women’s favorite localization of stretch marks is on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, waist and breasts, while men and athletes have stretch marks in the area shoulder girdle and hips.Stretch marks are exclusively a cosmetic defect: the skin in this place differs in color (from bluish-purple to whitish) and relief: atrophic (retracted), hypertrophic (convex) or inormotrophic (level with the skin). start while they are still “young”, i.e. up to 6 months, and in the absence of contraindications.”

Fractional RF resurfacing + plasma therapy

One of the most effective regimens for treating stretch marks is Fractora + plasma therapy. Fractora is a fractional radiofrequency resurfacing, which, in combination with autoplasma, gives the effect of leveling the relief, texture and smoothing a clear boundary between the skin and stretch marks. The device has several types of nozzles with different lengths and number of needles, which allows you to control the depth and area of impact. The effect appears after the first session, but to consolidate the result, you should take a course. It consists of 4-6 fractions in combination with 5-6 plasma therapy sessions. Regularity – once every 30-45 days.

This is a universal procedure, that is, it is suitable for everyone, regardless of gender, age and phototype (in the absence of medical contraindications). Fractora differs from other technologies in that it is approved by the FDA and is the most effective procedure among all fractional needle technologies in Russia.

Source: Cosmo.ru

5 ways to get rid of stretch marks on the body

The problem of stretch marks becomes especially relevant during the beach season, when white stripes on the hips and stomach cannot be hidden behind the stripes of a swimsuit. If you are uncomfortable with stretch marks, we will show you how to get rid of them.

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Stretch marks are not dangerous to health, but still do not look too pretty. We tell you how to make them more invisible with the help of cosmetics or cosmetic procedures.

Contents of the article

Do you have stretch marks on your skin? If yes, surely you wondered how to remove stretch marks on the hips, abdomen, chest and other parts of the body? These stripes, of course, do not pose any health hazard, but they do not look very aesthetically pleasing, so it is quite logical that you are not enthusiastic about their appearance. We can’t stand them either! In this article, we tried to figure out what stretch marks are, where they come from, how to make them less noticeable (spoiler: you can’t remove them 100%, but you can mask them), and also asked experts what the cosmetology market is currently offering in terms of combating striae (this is the second name for stretch marks, from the Latin word meaning “stripe”).

What are stretch marks and how they appear

At their core, stretch marks are scars. They appear when the body for some reason quickly increases in volume, and the skin cannot cope with this growth, simply does not keep up with it, the structure of collagen, which is responsible for its elasticity, is disturbed. There are micro-tears, which are then overgrown with connective tissue. Not every person’s skin is prone to stretch marks, some do without them. It is known that hormonal fluctuations and heredity play a role – if someone in your family has stretch marks, there is a chance that they may appear in you at some point in your life.

When do stretch marks appear? We have already said that they are preceded by rapid growth. This can happen during:

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growth spurts that occur during puberty (puberty).
pregnancy, how could it be without her. The body increases in volume, the stomach, chest grow, the hips become wider, in general, there is freedom for stretch marks.
rapid weight gain or loss, and not very fast either – both women and men who are obese, striae often occur.
strength training course. Imagine, bodybuilders get stretch marks too, athletes’ muscles can grow too fast, and as a result you can see characteristic stripes on their skin.
some diseases (Cushing’s disease, Marfan’s syndrome). We hope this is not your case.

Sometimes striae can also occur due to taking a large amount of corticosteroids or after installing implants in the chest (it is logical, because the skin is stretched). Accordingly, depending on the reason, you can see stretch marks on the skin of your thighs, chest, abdomen, or even arms in the area of biceps and triceps, if you are bodybuilding.

Most often, stretch marks in the first time after the appearance have a dark color: red, brown up to black, lilac. They can be slightly convex and itch – in fact, like any future scar. Over time, they fade, and may even fade to complete invisibility. Experts say that you need to start working with stretch marks the sooner the better, because while they are in the initial stage, there is a chance to help restore the skin. When microfractures are already replaced by connective tissue, it is very difficult to do something with them.

Before we move on to the next point, we note that it is unlikely that it will be possible to completely eliminate stretch marks, like any scars, they remain forever, you can only make them less obvious. There is also no one-size-fits-all solution to getting rid of stretch marks—you may have to try a few methods before you find one that really works. And the last thing – stretch marks do not harm your health in any way, their appearance is completely normal, and you can remove them or not, it all depends on your desire. There is absolutely nothing terrible about them.

How to get rid of stretch marks on the thighs and other places

So, you are determined to get rid of stretch marks or prevent them from appearing. What resources can help?

Let’s start with prevention. The bad news: all sorts of traditional methods, such as almond or olive oil, vitamin E, cocoa or coconut oil, do not really work. Maybe they have some kind of effect, but studies have not confirmed it. The good news is that there are still means for prevention, and these are cosmetics with hyaluronic acid or centella. Both of them stimulate the production of collagen in the skin, and if there is more of it, then it is more difficult to mechanically disturb its structure. Accordingly, if you smear those places where the skin is most stretched with such means, there is a chance that there will be fewer stretch marks or not at all.

If stretch marks have already appeared, “catch” them at the very beginning, we have already said that the sooner you start fighting them, the less noticeable they will be later. There are also several methods here.

Cosmetics

From what medical cosmetics offers, preparations with retinoids or (again) hyaluronic acid will help you. Keep in mind that retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy. Yes, and when breastfeeding, it is better to consult a doctor.

If you use creams or ointments, remember three simple rules:

Apply cream or ointment to fresh stretch marks. For those who have already turned white, it may not work.
Don’t just rub the striae, but rub the cream or ointment into them with massaging movements.
Use the cream or ointment constantly, every day, don’t skip “sessions”. The result will not be noticeable immediately, but do not be discouraged – skin regeneration will still go on, albeit not quickly.

If you plan to sunbathe, be prepared for the fact that stretch marks on the hips and other visible places will become more visible, there is no melanin in the connective tissue that forms them, which means that there is nothing to change the color under the sun. If you are embarrassed about stretch marks, you can cover them with a swimsuit (for example, choose a one-piece) or mask them with self-tanner.

Chemical peels

During chemical peels, various acids act on the skin, which remove its dead particles, while the living ones provoke the production of collagen. Thus, new healthy skin is formed in the area of stretch marks, which, although it does not completely tighten them, still partially hides them. In fact, chemical peeling is a burn with subsequent regeneration, so it’s better not to do it at home, but to turn to specialists. Most often, for stretch marks, acids such as glycolic, retinoic, phenolic (for deep peeling), succinic and others are used.

Hardware treatment

There are a lot of options here. For example, you can treat stretch marks with a laser (of course, not by yourself, but with the help of a doctor) – in this case, part of the skin evaporates under the influence of the laser, and the rest begins to regenerate rapidly. The effect is like that of a chemical peel, but stronger, and, accordingly, more traumatic. But the result is better – the skin is smoother, stretch marks are not so visible. Laser therapy is suitable for all skin types. As for the number of sessions, three to five are usually enough.

Microdermabrasion is an advanced version of mechanical peeling. The device evens out the skin, grinding it with the help of microcrystals, making the scars from stretch marks smoother and less noticeable. As with the laser, it will most likely require several treatments.

Ultrasound is one of the most painless options for getting rid of stretch marks. Under its influence, the skin is not damaged, but regenerating processes are launched in full.

Microneedling – exposure to the skin with the finest needles. Again, it starts the process of skin renewal, which means that stretch marks due to the new young epidermis surrounding them become less noticeable. Usually, after the needles, the skin is additionally treated with products containing collagen.

After each of the procedures, be sure to ask the doctor what you can and cannot do so that the desired effect does not come to naught. In some cases, you can not sunbathe, overheat the skin, you may need to change your usual cosmetics.

To make it clearer what procedures for getting rid of stretch marks are currently offered by the cosmetology market, we asked two experts to tell you about them.

Sergey Barsukov, cosmetologist-dermatologist at Romanov Health and Beauty Center: “Stretch marks or stretch marks on the body is a complex problem associated with hormonal imbalance and mechanical stretching of the skin. The classic example is pregnancy. This can also happen when you first gain a lot of weight, and then lose weight. Damaged skin at the level of the reticular layer of the dermis does not have time to recover, the “gap” is filled with connective tissue. This is how stretch marks appear. Paradoxically, these damages can be treated with other damages. To restore the normal structure of the dermis, you need to activate the regeneration processes in the desired area. This can be done by damaging the skin, but it needs to happen exactly at the level of the reticular layer of the dermis, where the problem is. A dermatologist-cosmetologist has several effective procedures in his arsenal that will help get rid of hated stretch marks on the body. I would recommend paying attention to the three most effective in my opinion.