Stretchmarks, or stretch marks, can appear as pink, purple or red streaks anywhere on the body. Although they are common during pregnancy, they can also occur with rapid weight gain, use of corticosteroid products, and as the result of medical conditions like Marfan syndrome. Fortunately there are many remedies that can help reduce the appearance of stretchmarks.
Cover Them Up
According to the Kid's Health website, stretchmarks, also called striae, can be covered up in a variety of ways. Try using an over-the-counter tanning lotion to give the skin a more even tone. Or get a professional spray tan treatment from a salon. Use artificial tanning because stretchmarks are not likely to tan. However, you should refrain from the use of regular sun tanning or tanning beds, which can be harmful to the skin.
You can also cover up stretchmarks with makeup. Many varieties are water-resistant so they will last longer on the skin. If swimming, chose a type of swim suit that hides stretchmarks. There are many styles and varieties that can help cover the embarrassing marks, especially those on the chest, thighs or buttocks.
Laser Treatments
There are several types of laser treatments that can help remove stretchmarks. One type of laser treatment, pulsed dye laser therapy, works by reconstructing the underlying skin. It encourages new growth of the skin's elastin and collagen. It is most effective on newer stretchmarks. Fractional photothermolysis is similar to pulsed dye laser therapy. It stimulates new growth, but only partially damages the skin in small dotted increments. Because most of the skin is uninjured, the area heals faster.
Another option, the excimer laser, does not affect elastin or collagen growth. Instead, it helps to stimulate the skin's pigmentation by increasing the production of melanin. This procedure can help the stretchmark look similar in color to the rest of your skin. Unlike other laser treatments, the excimer laser can be used on older stretchmarks.
Topical Creams
The Patient's Guide website explains that some topical medications can be used to treat stretchmarks. Retin-A and medicines that contain alpha-hydroxy acids can help improve the appearance of stretchmarks by remodeling the skin's elastin and collagen and reducing inflammation. These types of creams work best on stretchmarks that are six weeks old or less and are still red or pinkish in color.
