Stretch marks are a form of scarring that occurs when the skin is stretched beyond its normal limits. When stretched too far, the collagen and elastin layers are damaged, and uneven sections of collagen form in their place. These reddish or purple marks on the skin can be a lasting reminder of pregnancy weight gain and commonly occur on the abdomen, stomach, hips, thighs and/or breasts during or following pregnancy. In order to treat this condition, you should take action to soften the scar. Medical intervention also may be necessary to experience more dramatic results.
Step 1
Apply a moisturizer two to three times daily to any areas where you may experience stretch marks. Products containing cocoa butter, silicone, onion extract, lanolin or vitamin E are all good options for moisturizing the skin, according to Sure Baby. Not only can this reduce the appearance of a stretch mark, it also will reduce the itching that can accompany stretch marks.
Step 2
Drink more water. Drinking water helps to infuse moisture into the skin's cells, which can improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Step 3
Speak with your physician about a prescription for topical tretinoin. This medication penetrates the skin's layers and stimulates collagen growth, which can make the stretch marks less visible. It is important to note that women who are breastfeeding should not use this treatment because the effects of tretinoin while breastfeeding are not known, according to Baby Center.
Step 4
Massage the areas where stretch marks appear for several minutes a day. Massage helps to bring blood flow to the stretch marks, which may prevent further stretch marks from appearing. In addition to your hands, you also can use a body brush or a wash cloth.
Step 5
Find a qualified aesthetician or dermatologist who performs laser therapy for the removal of stretch marks, according to What to Expect. This therapy utilizes laser light to penetrate the skin's layers and stimulate collagen production under the skin. It may take several treatments in order to observe results.
Tips and Warnings
- The formation of stretch marks is linked to heredity, according to What to Expect. If your mother experienced stretch marks, you likely will as well.
- Resist the urge to scratch your stretch marks--this can result in more damage to the skin.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing cream
- Prescription for tretinoin cream
