Does Cocoa Butter Work On Old Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can be a frustration for those who suffer them. There are many creams available without prescription that claim to reduce or prevent their formation. Cocoa butter, sold as part of moisturizing creams, is often touted as a cure. While there have not been a lot of studies on the effects on cocoa butter as a treatment for stretch marks, the available results are not encouraging.

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks, or striae, often appear on the skin after periods of weight gain or growth, such as that seen in pregnancy or puberty. The marks appear as red or purple lines or streaks on the skin and tend to have a sheen to them. The marks often appear to be depressed into the skin. Certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome, diabetes and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may contribute to the formation of stretch marks.

Claims

Many moisturizing creams with cocoa butter advertise their usefulness in treating stretch marks. Some doctors and nurse will advise women to use cocoa butter during pregnancy to ease and lessen the effects of stretch marks, even though there is no clinical evidence to support its usefulness.

Effectiveness

Studies detailing the effectiveness of cocoa butter on striae have not yielded any results to support its use in treating stretch marks. While moisturizing may ease some of the itching associated with stomach of a pregnant woman, it will not prevent stretch marks from forming.

Scientific Results

A study published in "BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology" in April 2009, found no evidence to prove the effectiveness of cocoa butter on stretch marks. None of the 91 women who used cocoa butter saw any improved in their stretch marks. A second study also tested its effected on the stretch marks of 150 pregnant women. This study also found no truth to the claims that cocoa butter can prevent or reduce the development of stretch marks.

Alternative Treatments

Other treatments may be more suitable in the treatment of stretch marks. Tretinoin cream, available on prescription only, may be useful on new stretch marks. Some laser therapies may also be of use in their treatment. Microdermabrasion, a cosmetic procedure performed by dermatologists, may also be of use on older stretch marks. Your doctor can advise you on the most suitable treatment options.