Treating stretch marks effectively does not have to be a painful and complicated procedure. Many doctors and companies will recommend various treatments ranging from surgeries to creams. However, which is the most effective? Do surgical treatments really work? The answer is inconclusive. There are various surgical treatments advertised promising to remove stretch marks. These treatments include; Macrodermabrasion: (Resurfacing of the skin using sea salt or other fine crystals)Surgical Skin Resection: (Cutting out of Scar Tissue)Laser surgery: (Scar Tissue is dissolved or burned out by Laser)Tummy tuck: (Skin is cut, stretched and scars are hidden)The problem with these surgeries is that in many cases, stretch marks are not removed as promised, and additional scarring is caused by the actual procedures. Recovery from these surgeries is painful and uncomfortable.Can cream treatments effectively reduce the Stretch Marks Treatment?Yes, they can, but remember that only a few include the important ingredients that will assist in reducing the appearance of stretch marks.An effective cream treatment will include the following essential ingredients: Squalene Oil: This is derived from Olive Oil isolates, and has outstanding regenerative properties.Vitamin A Palmitate: Although associated for positive effects on eyesight, this vitamin also assists in reducing the appearance of stretch marks and scarring, and helps regulate skin cell growth.Vitamin E: Ranks as one of the best anti-oxidants for skin, helps delay the aging process of the skin, and nourishes skin cells.Vitamin D3: Important for new skin cell production. It also works in partnership of Vitamins A and E in the regeneration of process of the skin.DL-Penthenol (Vitamin B5): Vitamin B5 is an important vitamin that is required to sustain life. It is also critical in the synthesis if proteins (collagen and elastin). This means it promotes collagen and elastin production.Aloe Vera Extract: Excellent in treating small wounds without the forming of scar tissue, thus preventing the appearance of stretch marks. Also promotes skin regeneration.Grapefruit Seed Extract: An Anti-oxidant that can help prevent certain cancers. There have also been claims that it is a natural antibiotic, which helps to restore damaged collagen and elastin.
However, it will depend on how fast your skin gets stretched.
Cause of stretch marks
Stretch marks can appear anywhere on your body where skin is stretched, or overstretched. The normal production of collagen gets disrupted and as a result stretch marks appear. They are most likely to appear in the places where fat is stored – the abdomen, breasts, upper arms, thighs and buttocks. These marks are not harmful. These are simply cosmetic issue, and needs to be treated accordingly.
Though stretch marks are common in girls and women, men get stretch marks too. Obese people, bodybuilders, and people who use steroid-containing skin cream can get stretch marks.
Ways to get rid of stretch marks
Unfortunately, there is no permanent solution of stretch marks. However, you can reduce their appearance by not gaining too much weight and with proper preventive measures. The earlier you can detect them – when they are pink or reddish brown – the more likely you are to diminish their appearance.
Here are some general ways to get rid of stretch marks:
Apply cocoa butter into the stretch marks.
Massage with vitamin E oil into the stretch marks, especially after shower.
Apply tretinoin cream after consulting your doctor, since this cream is available by prescription only.
Eat foods that are rich in vitamin A, E and C. You can take supplements along with your regular diet. However, pregnant women should have this after consulting their doctors.
Eat foods that are rich in zinc, and silica. These are good for skin and help form collagen, the supporting fibers in the skin.
Eat foods that contain essential fatty acids. For example, vegetables, vegetable oils and fish oils. This will help make cell walls.
The best way to get rid of stretch marks is visiting a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. These doctors can actually help you with various treatments like actual surgery, and laser treatment that diminish the appearance of stretch marks.
Be careful during your pregnancy
Pregnant women are more prone to get stretch marks since they suddenly put on weight. This happens because elastin and collagen fibers become dehydrated and tear. Make sure you are applying moisturizer on your stomach regularly during pregnancy. Creams like Retin-A can help removing the stretch marks. However, going to a dermatologist is the best option.
Laser therapy
