Tips to Get Rid of Stretch Marks on the Body Permanently

Stretch marks appear on the body when the skin suddenly stretches or shrinks. This sudden stretch and shrink alters the skin’s elasticity, resulting in lines or marks on the skin. Sudden weight gain or loss and pregnancies are common causes of stretch marks.

Stretch marks can be lighter or darker than your skin tone. They can be depressed scars or slightly raised and may have a soft shine. Stretch marks usually appear on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, hips, breasts, upper arms, and lower back. Newer stretch marks are easier to treat than older ones, though there are many ways to reduce the visibility of stretch marks and improve the skin tone. If you are also struggling with these marks, getting stretch marks treatment in Delhi can help improve the overall skin condition.

Reasons for Stretch Marks

Most women develop stretch marks during pregnancy as it results in sudden weight gain and changes in the body.Anyone can develop stretch marks, but women from South Asian, East Asian, Black, and Hispanic races are more likely to have visible stretch marks than women from other races.

Apart from pregnancy, other reasons for stretch marks are:

• Weight gain or loss
• Bodybuilding
• Growth sprouts in young adults
• Family history/genetics
• Long-term use of steroids like prednisone
• Cushing’s syndrome

Stretch marks don’t hurt or lead to severe conditions. They may not even itch. However, they can affect one’s self-confidence.

Medical Treatments for Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are caused when the collagen and elastin in the skin break due to excess stretching or shrinking. The permanent stretch mark removal may take time and can reduce stretch marks but may not eliminate them completely.

Here are a few effective and best treatments for stretch marks:

• Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is a minimally invasive treatment where laser light is targeted on stretch marks to precisely remove the layers of skin in that area. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, reducing the appearance of stretch marks along with resulting in a smoother and even skin tone. The results can be seen quickly, and the effect will last for several years. You need minimum downtime and aftercare after laser resurfacing to allow the targeted area to heal properly. There might be a few side effects like swelling, redness, bruising, and hyperpigmentation.

The dermatologist will decide if you need more than one session.

• Microneedling

Microneedling is another minimally invasive treatment that may need multiple sessions to show results. In this, the doctor will use a special device with numerous needles to prick the skin with stretch marks. This promotes the body to produce more collagen and elastin to lighten the marks. The targeted area is numbed with local anesthetic cream to reduce pain during the procedure.

The skin will become firmer and softer after microneedling. The results can be visible after two to three sessions. Full results may need six months or so, as the body has to heal the affected area completely. Microneedling may have side effects like discoloration, mild scars, swelling, bruising, and irritation.

• Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion uses a different device to sand/ scrape the top layers of the skin. This removes the stretch marks as well and promotes the body to produce collagen for healing the wound. The new skin will be softer, smoother, and have an even tone. Dermabrasion needs more healing time (around two weeks) as new skin layers have to be formed. The results can be seen after a few months. There are some side effects like swelling, hyperpigmentation (due to excessive melanin production), and enlarged pores. More aftercare is necessary to prevent the treated area from getting infected.

• Retinol Application

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is used to reduce signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, etc. It is also effective on stretch marks (newer ones), though the results may take a long time. You have to use retinol-based creams for at least six to eight months to see visible changes. While there are many OTC (over-the-counter) products with retinol, retinoid creams are stronger but need a prescription from a dermatologist. This ensures that you don’t use a higher or lower concentration to end up with side effects. Retinol causes skin sensitivity and dryness.

Keep the skin hydrated and moisturized when using retinol.

• Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can reduce stretch marks by peeling off the topmost skin layers. This stimulates collagen production. The body heals the surface area by forming new skin with a softer and even tone. Chemical peels are available in the market for use at home. However, these can burn through the inner layers of the skin and result in permanent damage to the tissues. The doctor will decide the exact ratio of acid concentration depending on your skin type and the extent of stretch marks.

• Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP, aka platelet-rich plasma, is one of the leading regenerative therapies to improve skin and hair health. The platelet-rich plasma is separated from your blood and injected into the stretch marks to boost collagen production.

• Fractional CO2 Laser Light

The CO2 laser is effective in treating scars and stretch marks, especially older ones. Old stretch marks are tough to eliminate using topical applications. Laser light therapy is a better choice.

• Microneedling Radiofrequency

This device utilizes a probe with multiple small needles to push in radiofrequency waves to remodel skin collagen. It is well-suited to darker skins with fewer side effects.

• Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is recommended when you want to get rid of excess fat and tighten the skin. Tummy tuck and thigh lift are some examples of this procedure. You need to follow detailed aftercare as the downtime is high (a few weeks). The results can vary based on your health and the expertise of the surgeon.

Home Remedies to Reduce/Prevent Stretch Marks

We cannot completely prevent or remove stretch marks using home remedies. However, with a proper routine, you can ensure you develop fewer stretch marks.

• Apply sunscreen over the body to avoid exposure to direct sunlight
• Exercise regularly to stay fit and keep the body toned
• Hydration is necessary for the skin to stay supple and fresh
• A nutritious diet will keep your body healthy and strengthen the immune system
• Avoid sudden weight loss/gain and maintain a steady weight

Pregnant women can consult the doctor for effective ways to reduce stretch marks without harming their health or the baby.

Book an appointment with a senior dermatologist at Mehektagul Dermaclinic to get rid of stretch marks without major side effects. Improve your skin health and regain your confidence with effective stretch mark removal methods.