Effective Ways to Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks

Are you sick and tired of those stretch marks on your abdomen and thighs? Have you tried all possible ways to get rid of them but got no results? Well, here is some good news! There are many ways to remove stretch marks and, usually, a combination of methods is the best. When you use two or more different removal methods, it usually gives better results and, within a few weeks, you will notice those unsightly lines lightening and becoming less visible.

Wondering how to remove stretch marks? Then this post is a must read for you!

Stretch Marks – A Few Facts:

1. Pregnancy is the primary cause of stretch marks.
2. Other reasons include drastic and sudden weight loss or gain and sudden change in the body size.
3. 90% women who are pregnant get stretch marks near the abdomen, thighs and hips.
4. Stretch marks seem to have a genetic connection. For instance, if your mother got stretch marks, then the odds are high that you too will get them.
5. The skin has three layers which are:

• Epidermis – The outer layer of the skin
• Dermis – The middle layer of the skin
• Hypodermic or Subcutaneous – The deepest layer of the skin

6. Stretch marks basically form inside the dermis/ middle layer of skin. It happens when the connective tissues are stretched beyond their ability.
7. When the skin stretches, the collagen becomes weak and the general cycle of production of the collagen is damaged due to the interruption.
8. These fine lines occur under the top most layer of the skin.
9. Initially, stretch marks are red or pink in color. With time, a silver, thin line occurs on the surface of the skin, which gives birth to stretch marks.

But, there is nothing to worry about. There are certain things that can help you in preventing stretch marks. These remedies can also help you reduce the appearance of old and new ones.

How To Get Rid Of Stretch Marks?

Below given are the effective home remedies for stretch marks removal:

Topical Remedies (Verified):

1. Apply Moisturizer:

A recent study, which compared several moisturizers, proved that people who used a moisturizer daily noticed prominent improvement in the appearance as well as the elasticity of the skin.

• If the skin needs to stretch a lot, it will be less likely to get stretch marks or tear when it is hydrated properly.
• Use a lotion on the newly developed stretch marks or on the areas that are prone to stretch marks – thighs, breasts, and abdomen.
• A moisturizer can lighten the appearance of existing stretch marks, but it is not that effective on the new ones.
• In case you wish to stay away from the chemicals in the over-the-counter lotions, you can make a lotion at your home by mixing equal quantities of wheat oil, aloe vera, and olive oil. This mixture is the best “do-it-yourself” lotion.

2. Use Retin-A:

A research performed by the University of Michigan suggests people using Retin-A on the fresh stretch marks experienced great improvements.

• Retin-A is known to boost the production of collagen, which helps the skin to stretch and avoid any kind of tears in the skin.
• Retin-A will not be so effective on older stretch marks.
• You would require a prescription to buy products like Renova, Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac.
• You should try to restrict the sun exposure on your skin if you are treating it with Retin-A. If it is exposed to the sun, it will become susceptible to heat and burning.
• Never use products having retinoic acids if you are a nursing or pregnant woman. It can cause defects in the child.

3. Try Lextrin:

• Lextrin is a cream for stretch marks that is registered with the U.S. FDA. It contains naturally essential vitamins and oils of high-potency.
• These vitamins and oils help in treating and reducing the appearance and occurrence of stretch marks.
• The active and effective ingredients such as Thuja Occidentalis, Hyarolunic, Centella Asiatica, etc. also help in treating stretch marks.
• Treatment with this cream can take up to three months to remove the stretch marks.

4. Try Glycolic Acid:

• Glycolic acids are used for treating stretch marks. Glycolic acid increases the production of collagen and makes the skin more elastic.
• This acid is completely safe to be applied on the skin when you are pregnant.
• After using the acid, do not venture out in the sun. Protect your skin from direct exposure to sunlight.
• You can buy glycolic acid from a nearby medical store.
• For an intense and effective treatment, take a heavier dose of glycolic acid from a registered dermatologist.

5. Combine Retin-A And Glycolic Acid:

• When the two are mixed together, Retin-A and Glycolic Acid can improve stretch marks dramatically. If you opt for this remedy, you may wish to prep your skin with Retin-A prior to using glycolic acid.
• You should not use Retin-A when you’re pregnant or if you are breastfeeding your baby. It is capable of causing prominent birth defects.
• In case you have to visit a doctor or a physician for getting Retin-A prescribed, you can ask how to incorporate glycolic acids.

6. Vitamin E Oils:

• Vitamin E oil works miraculously on stretch marks.
• Try to mix the oil in carrier lotions just like some regular un-scented lotion for covering your skin in a better way.

7. Egg Oils:

• Egg oils are generally used from the first trimester.
• They can prevent all stretch marks related to pregnancy.
• You just need to massage the egg oils gently over your abdomen once or twice a day, from eight weeks of your pregnancy till six months post delivery.

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