Many people mistakenly think of stretch marks as stretched skin. In truth, stretch marks represent a collagen breakdown in the epidermal layer of the skin, often caused during rapid weight gain or abrupt hormonal shifts during pregnancy, weight training or growth spurts. People with stretch marks often seek out treatment, ranging from applying stretch mark cream to cosmetic surgery. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, "treatments can lessen the appearance of stretch marks, but won't completely remove them." A variety of stretch mark creams are available, including prescription formulations, over-the-counter medications and natural remedies.
Prescription Stretch Mark Creams
Dermatologists often prescribe creams for patients with stretch marks. Active ingredients in many prescription stretch mark treatments include various types of retinoids such as isotretinoin, tretinoin or retinaldehyde. A 1996 study published in the "Archives of Dermatology" attests that retinol creams dramatically reduced the severity of stretch marks for 80 percent of the patients int he study. Among the common prescription stretch mark creams on the market are Mederma, Trilastin, ZENMED Stretta and Revitol.
Over-the-Counter Stretch Mark Creams
Over-the-counter stretch mark creams work in a variety of ways. Some products, such as those made by Aveeno or Neutrogena, have exfoliates or alpha hydroxy acid to slough off the top layer of damaged skin cells and stimulate the production of collagen, functioning like a gentle chemical peel. Other over-the-counter stretch mark remedies contain peptides, an element that also boost collagen production. Strivectin is another product now available over-the-counter.
Natural Stretch Mark Creams
Skin affected by stretch marks often needs moisture. Moisturizers such as cocoa butter or shea butter form part of many natural stretch mark treatments. Cocoa butter sticks, derived from cocoa beans and vegetable fat, offer concentrated moisturizing power. Natural and over-the-counter formulations often have antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C to accelerate the healing of scar tissue and fend off further damage. A review in the "New York Times" asserts that people who treat their skin with vitamin E oil or products containing vitamin E have fewer stretch marks.
