Stretch marks, which are known medically as striae, are small tears in the skin that occur due to sudden weight gain, pregnancy or a growth spurt. Stretch marks are pink, white or purple in appearance and are essentially tiny scars where the skin has torn slightly. It is possible to treat stretch marks, although the method of treatment depends on how old the stretch marks are. A dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon can prescribe medication or perform a procedure to permanently remove stretch marks.
Step 1
Wait it out. Some stretch marks fade over time. Stretch marks that are more than a year old are unlikely to fade. In order to remove older stretch marks, additional treatment is required.
Step 2
Stop using over-the-counter stretch mark creams. These creams are ineffective and are not medically proven to reduce or eliminate stretch marks, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 3
Consult a dermatologist about tretinoin cream for newer stretch marks. According to the Mayo Clinic, tretinoin creams may be effective on new stretch marks, but not on stretch marks more than a year old. Tretinoin cream is derived from vitamin A and helps build collagen, making stretch marks appear lighter and smaller.
Step 4
Get pulsed dye laser therapy. Pulsed dye laser therapy is performed by a dermatologist, and creates more collagen and elastin in the skin. Although pulsed dye laser therapy is more effective on new stretch marks, it may also be effective on stretch marks that are older than a year.
Step 5
Consider excimer laser treatments if your stretch marks are more than a year old. An excimer laser treatment repigments the skin, making older stretch marks less noticeable.
Tips and Warnings
- Stretch marks are not dangerous and do not require medical treatment.
- Consult several doctors before deciding on a dermatologist to perform your procedure.
Things You'll Need
- Tretinoin cream
