Stretch marks, medically referred to as striae, are irregular areas of skin, describes the National Institutes of Health. They're usually caused by rapid or excessive weight gain, but striae may also be a result of topical medications and medical conditions. Even teens can develop this form of scarring as they grow in height. While there isn't a medical need to treat stretch marks, many want to at least fade them. There are a few products that may provide noticeable results.
Tretinoin
According to both the American Academy of Dermatology and the Mayo Clinic, creams containing tretinoin are by far the best product to help fade stretch marks.
Available only by prescription, tretinoin works by stimulating the production of collagen within the dermis, which is the layer of tissue just under the skin's surface. Collagen is a protein found in connective tissue that gives the skin its shape and support.
With extra collagen, stretch marks can take on the same tone and texture as the rest of the skin.
Tazarotene
Another prescription medication that can improve the appearance of stretch marks is tazarotene. Sold under the brand name Tazorac, it's often used to reduce the redness of skin as a result of psoriasis.
Since tazarotene is a derivative of vitamin A, much like tretinoin, it can effectively improve the appearance of stretch marks. It works similar to tretinoin by encouraging the production of collagen under the surface of the skin. As the amount of collagen increases, your skin can experience a fading of stretch marks.
Mederma Cream Plus SPF 30
In 2009, Mederma Cream plus SPF 30 received the seal of recognition by the American Academy of Dermatology. It's the first scar cream to be awarded such an honor.
Not only does the cream protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun, but it also helps soften and smooth the appearance of scars, including stretch marks. This over-the-counter lotion is applied evenly to your skin twice daily for best results.
