Stretch marks, also known as striae, are imperfections left on the skin after periods of rapid weight gain. As a person gains weight, the skin begins to stretch, but when the pounds come on quickly, the skin may not have time to accommodate for the pull. This, coupled with hormonal changes during pregnancy, can weaken the elastic fibers of the skin, causing striae. It's common for women to develop stretch marks during pregnancy, especially around the sixth or seventh month, says the Mayo Clinic. To rid the skin of striae, it's usually recommended that you begin with more conservative measures before seeking out other forms of treatment.
Step 1
Lose the pregnancy weight. According to the National Institutes of Health, many women notice an improvement in the appearance of stretch marks after the extra weight is gone.
Step 2
Pick up a prescription for tretinoin, a medicated cream that may improve the appearance of stretch marks by stimulating the production of collagen. It works only on new stretch marks, 6 weeks old or less, says the Mayo Clinic.
Step 3
Talk to your dermatologist about microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a medical procedure that "buffs" the skin with tiny crystals. As the crystals hit the skin, they remove the epidermis. After the area heals, you're left with smoother, more even-looking skin.
Step 4
Receive a chemical peel. As the chemical agent is applied to the skin, it prompts a peeling of the epidermis. This allows for new skin growth that is more even in tone and texture with the rest of your skin, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Step 5
Talk to a cosmetic surgeon about laser resurfacing. The Cleveland Clinic says laser surgery can either "remove or improve" stretch marks by stimulating additional elastin production, evening out the stretch marks with the rest of your skin.
Tips and Warnings
- The Cleveland Clinic recommends hydration and nutrition to improve the health and appearance of the skin. Foods containing zinc, protein, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin D are the best. Sources of these nutrients are dairy, fish, nuts, eggs, citrus and most vegetables. Some red meats are also rich in protein and zinc. Pulsed dye and fractional photothermolysis are two of the more common forms of laser resurfacing, but your doctor may suggest another form of laser therapy.
- Tretinoin cream shouldn't be used during pregnancy, the Mayo Clinic says. The National Institutes of Health and the Mayo Clinic warn against creams "formulated" for the removal of stretch marks. They typically contain ingredients similar to other moisturizers that are much less expensive and provide the same, minimal results.
