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Only one type of stretch marks respond to treatment, says dermatologist
Stretch marks are neither a health concern nor a painful condition. It can appear on anyone, regardless of gender, shape, and size.
The human body is beautiful in so many ways. Those who don’t adhere to the conventional beauty standards pride themselves on scars and marks, but others conscious of their appearance look for quick fixes, whether to make acne vanish overnight or to get rid of stretch marks.
Who can get stretch marks?
People frown on stretch marks. Unlike temporary breakouts, these can last forever, especially if they are a specific color.
These red, purple, or white scars appear when the body changes for different reasons. It’s common in women during pregnancy when the skin around the stomach expands. It can also appear when someone gains or loses weight rapidly or among bodybuilders and weightlifters upon bulking up.
Furthermore, stretch marks can also be passed on genetically, as The Cleveland Clinic notes. Using certain medications such as prednisone – steroids to treat various conditions – can also be the cause of the marks on your body.
In fact, stretch marks are so common that 50 to 90% of pregnant women can develop them. And no, it doesn’t cause any physical discomfort, although it can affect your mental health by taking a hit at your confidence due to poor body image.
Dermatologist’s honest take on treating it
Certified dermatologist Dr. Andrea Suarez dispels the myth that all stretch marks are treatable. She says certain creams, lotions, and beauty treatments can improve their appearance only in the early stages of formation.
Stretch marks are usually red or purple when they start to form and turn white eventually. The latter is almost impossible to get rid of with self-treatment, no matter how much money you spend.
Furthermore, not everyone with the condition responds similarly to creams and lotions, regardless of when the treatment is sought. “Once the stretch marks are white, these are unlikely to do anything,” says the dermatologist.
The only solution is to see a dermatologist trained to conduct certain procedures to reduce the intensity of the white stretch marks. If you’ve only started to develop them, the following options are recommended.
- Creams and lotions with hyaluronic acid.
- Products with tretinoin that need a prescription or retinol, available at cosmetic stores.
Dr. Andrea Suarez is a Denver-based dermatologist with over 12 years of experience. She graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 2011.
