Stretch marks are a common skin condition, usually caused by pregnancy, weight gain or rapid growth during the teenage years. You may find yourself overwhelmed by the range of over-the-counter creams that claim to cure or prevent stretch marks. None of these have been proven to work. All need further research to determine their effect, if any exists. Tretinoin cream is the only proven cream for treating stretch marks.
Drug Information
Tretinoin cream is a cream that uses the acidic derivative of vitamin A called retinol. It is not known why tretinoin reacts the way it does, but it exfoliates skin and stimulates collagen production in the skin, which rejuvenate its appearance. It also can even the skin tone. Tretinoin creams are sold under many different brand names. These include Altinac, Atralin, Avita, Retin-A, Refissa, Renova and Tretin-X. Brand name of the tretinoin creams blended with other elements are Solage, Tri-Luma and Ziana.
Usage
Tretinoin cream is rubbed into the skin at a prescribed frequency. It is not suitable for use in patients under twelve or 65 as its effects on these groups have not been studied. Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, considering getting pregnant before using this product or become pregnant while in receipt of a prescription of it, or if you suffer from eczema. If you ingest tretinoin cream, get it in your eyes, nose or ears, consult your doctor.
Results
While research is sparse on the usage of tretinoin cream on stretch marks, initial results are encouraging. In one study, conducted by Dr. Sewon Kang of the University of Michigan Medical Center, tretinoin use was found to reduce the length and width of stretch marks in eight of the ten women studied. This treatment is most effective on stretch marks no older than six weeks old.
Side Effects
If you have sensitive skin, you may have a reaction to tretinoin cream. The pigmentation of the skin surrounding your stretch marks may change or the skin may become red, scaly and sore. Some warmth and tingling is normal when you first apply the cream, but if it does not subside, you may be allergic. If the skin blisters, swells or forms a crust, see a doctor.
Alternative Treatments
Laser therapy and microdermabrasion are alternatives to tretinoin. (See Reference 6) Keeping your weight at a steady level and avoiding cortisone treatments where possible can help to prevent the formation of new stretch marks.
References
- "BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology"; Cocoa Butter Lotion for Prevention of Striae Gravidarum; H. Osman, I.M. Usta, N. Rubeiz, R. Abu-Rustum, I. Charara, A.H. Nassarc; 2008
- San Fransciso State University: Student Health Services: Retin-A (Tretinoin)
- MedlinePlus: Tretinoin Topical
- Drugs.com: Tretinoin
- Archives of Dermatology: Topical Tretinoin (Retinole Acid) Improves Early Stretch Marks
- MayoClinic.com: Stretch Marks: Treatments and Drugs
