How to Get Rid of Stretch Marks Fast
Do Stretch Marks Go Away?
There are many reasons to be happy about during pregnancy, but there are also things that may cause some troubles. One of these is stretch marks. Stretch marks are scars that are pink to purplish in color. They are particularly common in the abdomen, breasts, buttocks and thighs. While stretch marks are more common among women, men can get them as well.
These scars may just be a cosmetic concern, but you may want to find ways to make them less noticeable especially when you want to flaunt your skin in the beach. What many people do not know is that stretch marks fade over time and that there are treatments available to remove these marks when they are on the early stages. So before it gets too late, read on and learn how to get rid of stretch marks fast.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
As its name suggests, stretch marks are streaks or scars caused by the stretching of the skin. The skin is elastic, but rapid growth can upset collagen production. Stretch marks typically appear during the teenage years, when the body grows. These marks are also extremely common among pregnant women and obese people. Those who lift weights can also get stretch marks because of muscle growth.
How to Remove Stretch Marks
1. Moisturize your skin.
Moisturizing is one essential part of a good skin care regimen that is often neglected. Not only does it combat dryness and help make your skin supple, it also allows your skin to better stretch. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking a lot of water every day and using a moisturizer that contains cocoa or shea butter. Remember to focus on the belly, breasts, thighs and buttocks.
2. Use tretinoin cream.
When your stretch marks are still pink or red in color, try using tretinoin cream to help improve their appearance. Tretinoin works by rebuilding collagen, the protein that makes up the connective tissue in your skin. Tretinoin creams, however, should not be used during pregnancy. They also won’t work on stretch marks that are more than 6 weeks old.
3. Try glycolic acid.
Like tretinoin, glycolic acid helps improve collagen production. Visit your doctor and have him administer the treatment. Different dosages can be used to reduce stretch marks depending on the severity. It can take three sessions to see results.
4. Take Vitamin C supplements.
Vitamin C also helps boost collagen production and improve the appearance of early stretch marks. Make sure you include foods high in Vitamin C in your daily diet such as citrus fruits. You can also take Vitamin C supplements as an alternative.
5. Control your weight.
This does not directly help remove stretch marks but controlling your weight can save you the trouble of dealing with these unsightly scars in the future. If you put on those extra pounds, your skin expands, possibly causing stretch marks. Watch your diet and start exercising to control your weight. Do yourself a favor and start living a healthier lifestyle.
5. Try laser treatment.
Laser treatment is the best option to get rid of stretch marks that are older. Various lasers can be used depending on the age of the stretch marks, cost, and your desired results. Lasers stimulate growth of new collagen, replacing those that are damaged by the scars. Patients usually undergo three to six treatments. Remember, though, that stretch marks cannot be completely removed, but laser treatment will help a lot in reducing their appearance.
6. Microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion is another popular treatment that can remove stretch marks fast. This works by removing the topmost layer of the skin using a device that blows crystals onto skin. This aims to promote growth of new skin cells. Microdermabrasion works on both new and old stretch marks.
