When it comes to beauty, any unexpected mark on the body can be considered an unsightly blemish. Stretch marks are incredibly common in people of all ages, with studies stating that around 80 percent of people the United States have them. Although stretch marks are completely natural, some people may want to improve their appearance of them. Here are a few ways you can deal with stretch marks and minimize their appearance.
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What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are actually a type of scar called striae, and they appear when the skin rapidly stretches or shrinks. The body rapidly grows or shrinks. They occur when the rapid growth or shrinkage of the body causes the collagen and elastin in the dermis to tear. Stretch marks appear when the skin begins to heal. In the early stages, they can appear raised with a red, pink, or purple hue, and they might feel itchy. After a time, they depress into the skin, and the color fades to white or silver. Just like all other scars, stretch marks are permanent. Some people find that they can live with these marks, while others prefer to undergo treatments to make them less visible.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a popular stretch mark removal method that is recommended by dermatologists. It involves the use of fractional laser technology to send pulses of laser energy into the areas where your skin has been stretched. These short pulses help break down scar tissue and stimulate collagen production. In turn, patients will experience less discoloration and a smoother complexion.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a non-surgical procedure that is popularly used to fight signs of aging and to reduce the appearance of scarring. This treatment is carried out using a small instrument that features tiny, sterile needles. Using this instrument, small wounds are created in the skin, which encourages a healing reaction to take place. This process induces collagen production and skin regrowth and helps make stretch marks less visible. Johnston Family Acupuncture are microneedling and acupuncture specialists based in Boston. Their team is made up of qualified professionals who can assess your skin and provide you with treatments tailored to your needs.
Retinoid Creams
Retinoids are an excellent remedy for people with fresh stretch marks but should not be used by those who are pregnant as they could cause harm to the baby. Retinoid creams are lotions that derive from vitamin A, a vitamin that can help reduce inflammation, regulate skin cell growth, and lessen the appearance of stretch marks. These creams contain tretinoin, which is great for building collagen.
Regular Massage
Firmly massaging the area with stretch marks every day can help make fresh scars more mature. In turn, you will end up with white or silver depressed marks much quicker than leaving them to heal on their own.
Stay Hydrated
Stretch marks develop in dry skin more than in moist skin, which means staying hydrated can help you avoid stretch marks. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women drink 72 ounces of water per day, and men drink 104 ounces of water per day.