Stretch marks are an issue that plague thousands of people across the globe, which is why stretch mark removal is a topic worth exploring. In some cases, these marks are nothing more than a nuisance, but other times they have a serious impact on a person’s psyche.
Pregnant women who experience stretch marks can be especially discouraged knowing that even when they regain their figure after childbirth, the permanent unsightly marks will remain. It is easy to empathize with these women and others who are willing to try creams, home remedies, and even stretch mark removal surgery to get rid of these marks. Many women simply want to return to a time when they could wear bikinis and other flattering outfits without feeling self-conscious about the streaks of purple or red on their bellies, thighs, and other areas.
Getting Rid of Stretch Marks
Most people believe stretch marks are the result of a person’s skin not stretching when excessive weight is gained. However, there is evidence from new clinical and laboratory studies that there could be more to scarring of this type. While the term “stretch marks” originates from the belief that they are caused by rapid weight gain usually associated with pregnancy, there is more to know about how stretch marks develop.
A newer perspective is that other factors are at work. For instance, the use of creams and lotions with corticosteroids can increase the probability that a person will get stretch marks. Hormones also appear to play a role. Stretch marks also appear during times of great hormone fluctuation: pregnancy, puberty, and weightlifting are examples of this. Even “typical” weight-gain caused by excessive calorie intake or a sedentary lifestyle results in hormonal changes. These hormones can affect processes inside the body as well as within the skin. It is possible that stretch mark removal strategies will need to evolve as more information is discovered about the formation of striae.
Another issue is that scientists have discovered a genetic link, meaning that if a woman developed stretch marks after pregnancy or putting on weight, then her children would have a high risk of developing them too. Therefore, keep in mind that there is more to stretch marks than just the skin’s inability to stretch during times of significant or rapid weight gain.
Stretch Mark Removal Tips
While many are disappointed to hear this, the simple fact is that if stretch marks are not addressed early, they could be very difficult to remove. A good rule of thumb is to address stretch marks as soon as you notice them. This does not mean that treatment is completely ineffective for people who have lived with stretch marks for some time; it just means that once this kind of scarring has passed the initial phase (when marks are a purple or red color), getting rid of them could be very hard, and fading of the marks might be the best achievable outcome. Nevertheless, medical technology has advanced to the point that there are now options for people who previously never would have had hope for stretch mark removal.
Stretch Mark Removal Surgery for Best Results
Laser surgery for stretch marks is one of the most effective approaches to removal or reduction of striae. However, stretch mark removal surgery can be expensive, and you must invest some time in finding a good doctor. You can check with acquaintances to see if they have any recommendations, and you can perform extensive research on the internet to locate a doctor you can trust. If you are considering laser stretch mark removal, be sure to come prepared to your doctor appointments: make a list of any questions you have, make certain that you understand exactly what kind of results you can expect, and have the doctor tell you how many laser surgery sessions will be necessary.
Creams that Work
The most convenient and cost-efficient solution for stretch marks removal would be with creams. Products such as these can only do so much, but these are a great alternative to laser surgery, and there are some that have been shown to help minimize the appearance of scarring. The key would be in choosing the right product, one formulated with ingredients that are effective but also safe. The following are three recommendations that work well for many people (and again remember that best results will occur if stretch marks removal is initiated as soon as the marks appear):
StriVectin-SD – Formulated with peptides, this cream for removing stretch marks works by stimulating production of collagen. As a result, damaged skin cells have the chance to repair. For application, the product should be applied to the affected area two times a day for two full months. Because StriVectin-SD works on skin of all types and has even improved older scars, it is a highly recommended stretch mark cream.
Mederma Stretch Mark Therapy – This is another stretch mark removal cream that has received rave reviews. The active ingredient in the formula is called allium cepa, an onion extract, coupled with sulfur and pennywort. Both onion extract and pennywort contain anti-inflammatory properties, while sulfur works by fighting off infection and bacteria. In addition to reducing signs of scarring, Mederma Stretch Mark Therapy actually promotes the appearance and texture of softer and smoother skin. This cream would also be applied two times a day for approximately two months.
TriLastin-SR – This is the last option for stretch mark removal creams worthy of recommendation here. The unique formula of this product produces what the company calls “collagen infused microspheres” that could impact even older and deeper scars. Although complete removal might be impossible, more stubborn stretch marks could be repaired to some degree. Additionally, the ingredients in TriLastin-SR help stretch marks to fade. Applied two times a day for two to three months, most people regardless of skin type see some improvement.
If you are serious about returning to the stretch mark-free skin that you once enjoyed, learn as much as you can about your different stretch mark removal options. Even if you have tried a few solutions without success, you will find an approach that works for you.