Stretch marks develop as a result of the skin stretching or pulling beyond its normal capacity. This force weakens the elastic fibers within the underlying layers of the skin, causing streaks to appear on the epidermis. Pregnancy is by far the most common contributing factor to this skin condition. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 90 percent of women develop stretch marks between their second and third trimesters. However, you can also develop stretch marks during periods of rapid growth, prolonged use of corticosteroids or weight gain. While there isn't a method that can remove stretch marks from the skin, there are ways to cause them to fade.
Microdermabrasion
A medical procedure that can help to fade stretch marks is microdermabrasion, asserts the Mayo Clinic. Microdermabrasion is basically a process of polishing the skin. Small crystals abrade the surface of the skin, stimulating the production of new skin cells that are more similar in appearance to the rest of the skin.
Tretinoin
Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommend tretinoin, a topical prescription retinoid. When applied daily, tretinoin helps rebuild the weakened elastic fibers in the underlying layers of the skin. This evens out the irregular tissue, making it less visible. However, stretch marks older than six weeks rarely benefit from this form of treatment.
Laser Treatments
The Mayo Clinic and the AAD also agree on laser therapy in the treatment of stretch marks. Much like tretinoin, laser therapy stimulates the production of collagen, helping to rebuild the weakened elastic fibers in the dermis. It also encourages the production of elastin, another protein in connective tissue. Both collagen and elastin give the skin shape and form, so their production can help to fade stretch marks.
Other forms of laser therapy focus on the color or tone of the stretch marks. Certain lasers can cause the production of melanin, the compound responsible for pigmentation. As melanin is produced, lighter stretch marks can darken to match the rest of your skin.
